By Ibrahim Sesay

In a spirited address at the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) Annual Fundraising Dinner held on Friday, February 7, 2025, at the Bintumani International Conference Center in Aberdeen, the President of the SLBA, Tuma Jabbie Esq., emphasized the crucial role the legal profession plays in shaping the nation’s future.

Addressing a distinguished audience of legal professionals, policymakers, and society leaders, Tuma Jabbie opened his remarks with lighthearted humor, urging guests to consider settling any outstanding court cases before dessert was served, given the caliber of lawyers present.

“The theme of our gathering tonight—The Role of the Legal Profession in Building a Brighter Future for National Development—raises a pressing question: how can we, as members of the Bar, be the architects of a just, prosperous, and forward-moving Sierra Leone?” Tuma Jabbie J said. She reflected on the growing number of young aspiring lawyers entering the profession, suggesting that it was time for society to feel the tangible impact of the legal profession.

“History has taught us that nations thrive when justice prevails,” Tuma Jabbie continued. “The rule of law is the foundation of economic growth, social stability and democratic governance. Without an effective legal system, development falters, investments shrink and hope diminishes.”

Tuma Jabbie called for the legal community to lead in advocating for reforms that support economic development, including modernizing business laws, improving land rights, strengthening anti-corruption frameworks and ensuring equitable access to justice for all. She highlighted the need for the legal profession to be more than just defenders of rights, but also custodians of progress, driving innovation and inclusivity in all spheres of society.

“In building a prosperous nation, we must not forget our commitment to human rights, equality, and the protection of constitutional values,” she stated. “Justice must be a fundamental right for all, not just a privilege for the few.”

One of Tuma Jabbie’s key initiatives was the announcement of plans to invest in robust legal education and mentorship programs, aimed at shaping the next generation of lawyers. “A well-trained lawyer is like palm wine—better with time,” she quipped, before emphasizing the importance of ethical development in legal practice.

Concluding her address, Tuma Jabbie urged unity across all sectors of society, calling on lawyers, judges, business leaders, and policymakers to collaborate for a brighter future for Sierra Leone. He ended with a humorous note, suggesting that any lawyer dancing too well at the dinner might be celebrating a big case win.

In a subsequent address, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., echoed Tuma Jabbie’s sentiments, stressing the importance of unity within the legal profession. “There is only one legitimate body representing the legal fraternity,” Alpha Sesay asserted, calling on all members of the legal community to come together under the SLBA umbrella.

Alpha Sesay emphasized the role of the legal profession in national development, noting that a united front is essential for upholding the rule of law and advancing democracy. He also highlighted the Government’s ongoing legal reforms, including the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, the Criminal Procedure Act of 2024, and the abolition of the death penalty, among other key milestones.

Reflecting on the constitutional review process, which has been in progress for over two decades, Alpha Sesay reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working with the SLBA and civil society organizations to finalize a new constitution that embodies the aspirations of all Sierra Leoneans.

“I urge all lawyers to unite under the banner of the Sierra Leone Bar Association,” he concluded. “We are the oldest Bar Association in West Africa, and together we can continue to move Sierra Leone forward.”

The event was a moment of reflection and reaffirmation for the legal community, with both Tuma Jabbie and Alpha Sesay underscoring the need for collective action in shaping a just, prosperous, and united Sierra Leone. The fundraising dinner served as a platform for fostering unity and strengthening the country’s legal framework, ensuring that the law continues to be a guiding light for national development.