Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) has postponed its Annual General Meeting (AGM) proceedings until further notice, citing what it describes as unlawful interference by Sierra Leone Police.
SLBA said members were prevented from accessing the AGM venue, disrupting its constitutional business and forcing an indefinite suspension of proceedings.
In its statement, the Association condemned the police action as an unconstitutional interference in its internal affairs and an abuse of statutory authority. It maintained that no lawful order from a competent court was presented to justify restricting members from entering the meeting hall.
According to SLBA, disruption caused significant financial losses, with millions of Leones already spent on preparations for the AGM. It argued that those losses could have been avoided through a more reasonable approach.
The Association also reaffirmed that responsibility for managing its affairs rests with its Directors under Article 19 of its Articles of Association. It pledged to continue upholding the rule of law, promoting accountability, and protecting the interests of its membership.
SLBA apologised to members and invited guests for the inconvenience and said a new date for the AGM would be announced in due course.
Postponement comes amid growing tensions surrounding this year’s SLBA electoral process, adding to concerns over governance, access to the AGM, and independence of professional institutions in Sierra Leone.