Freetown, Sierra Leone – July 14, 2026 — The Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) has pushed back against criticism of its new electronic registration system for the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) and elections, insisting the measure is a lawful administrative step to enhance transparency and prevent electoral irregularities.
In a statement released on Monday, the SLBA Executive Committee responded directly to a press release issued the previous day by Ms. Martina Baindu Egbenda, a prominent lawyer and one of the presidential candidates in the forthcoming elections. Egbenda had questioned the legality of the electronic registration process, suggesting it might impose additional barriers not provided for in the Association’s governing documents.
The SLBA emphasized that the concerns stem from a “misinterpretation” of the Association’s Memorandum and Articles of Association (M&A). Citing **Article 19**, which empowers the Executive to manage the Association’s business except for matters reserved for the General Meeting, along with Articles 29 and 30, the leadership asserted broad authority to implement administrative measures for effective operations.
“The electronic registration exercise is an administrative measure within these powers,” the statement read. “It does not amend the M&A, alter membership rights, or introduce new qualifications.”
Purpose and Safeguards
The Association introduced the electronic system to modernize its electoral process ahead of the rescheduled AGM, now set for July 31 and August 1, 2026, at the Freetown International Conference Centre. The event will focus on the theme “Trade, Finance & Law.”
According to the SLBA, the platform will:
– Verify members’ eligibility strictly under Article 32 of the M&A.
– Create an accurate, up-to-date register of voters.
– Minimize risks of duplication, impersonation, and other irregularities.
– Issue secure voting credentials.
The Executive stressed that registration does not create extra qualifications but merely confirms existing eligibility requirements. It also provides an auditable trail while protecting sensitive technical security details to maintain election integrity.
Broader Context
The SLBA, Sierra Leone’s premier body representing legal practitioners, has faced past scrutiny over governance and election processes. Previous elections, such as those in Kenema, drew criticism for disorganization, underscoring ongoing calls for greater transparency and credibility in the Association’s affairs.
Electronic or online registration and voting systems have become increasingly common among bar associations worldwide to improve accessibility and reduce fraud, though implementation often sparks debate over inclusivity, especially for members with limited digital access or in regions with connectivity challenges.
The SLBA urged all eligible members to complete the registration promptly, reaffirming its commitment to good governance. “This mechanism facilitates compliance with the M&A; it does not impose additional conditions for participation,” the Executive noted.
The Association concluded by inviting constructive dialogue from members while maintaining that the process ensures the 2026 AGM and elections will be “fair, efficient, secure, and credible.”
