Following the election of a five-member caretaker body to oversee affairs of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), Team Martina, led by former presidential aspirant Martina Baindu Egbenda, has issued a statement welcoming the outcome and expressing support for efforts aimed at restoring stability and democratic governance within the Association.
Team Martina described the outcome of the Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) as an important step toward rebuilding confidence in the legal profession’s premier institution after months of internal disputes, legal challenges, and governance concerns.
The group congratulated members of the newly elected caretaker body and expressed hope that they would discharge their responsibilities with wisdom, impartiality, and professionalism during what it described as a critical transitional period.
As revealed by the Team, they also extended appreciation to Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, who presided over the Extraordinary General Meeting in his capacity as Titular Head of the Sierra Leone Bar Association.
According to the statement, his leadership during the meeting contributed to what was described as a peaceful and orderly process that helped pave the way for restoring democratic governance within the Association.
At the same time, recognition was given to the outgoing executive of the Sierra Leone Bar Association for its service, with acknowledgment of the time and effort devoted to managing affairs of the institution. The statement noted that lessons learned from recent events should guide members toward building a Bar Association that is more united, transparent, consultative, and accountable.
Addressing responsibilities of the caretaker body, Team Martina stated that the committee now carries a clear mandate to administer affairs of the Association and facilitate free, fair, credible, and transparent elections.
The group emphasised that any future electoral process should be conducted in strict compliance with the Memorandum and Articles of Association, provisions of the Legal Practitioners Act, and orders issued by the High Court on 23rd July 2026.
Furthermore, Team Martina reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, institutional reform, and unity within the legal profession. The statement pledged full cooperation with lawful efforts aimed at restoring confidence and strengthening governance structures within the Association.
It also encouraged members of the caretaker body to perform their duties with independence, fairness, and transparency so that members of the Bar can have confidence in the eventual electoral process.
Beyond institutional matters, the statement acknowledged patience and resilience demonstrated by supporters and members of the wider legal community throughout the prolonged period of uncertainty.
On the whole, rebuilding confidence within the Sierra Leone Bar Association remains an ongoing task. However, it expressed optimism that cooperation among members could help create a stronger, more united, and more accountable Association moving forward.