Sierra Leone Bar Association election dispute

The Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) has implemented strict eligibility and voting regulations for its upcoming elections and Annual General Meeting. Following a High Court order, the Caretaker Body established that only members who settled all subscriptions and conference fees by 29 May 2026 are eligible to vote or stand for office. Verification requires the presentation of original bank slips or statements, with no other forms of proof accepted.

The provisional voters list, published by Caretaker Body Chairman Osman I. Kanu Esq., has excluded several members of the previous executive, including outgoing President Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara and former Public Relations Officer Alfred Kamanda. This omission may prevent Gento-Kamara from seeking a second term. Meanwhile, challenger Martina Baindu Egbenda is included on the list.

Voting is scheduled to be conducted via secret ballot on 26 October 2026. The process prohibits proxy voting and requires voters to present valid identification. Members were given until 24 October to report errors or omissions to the Bar Secretariat before the final register is issued.