Freetown, Sierra Leone – The Honourable Chief Justice, His Lordship Komba Kamanda, has issued a stern warning to lawyers, particularly female practitioners, over what he described as the growing trend of “inappropriate attire” in courtrooms across the country.
Speaking on October 6, 2026, during a high-level meeting with the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) executive led by its President, Mrs. Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara, Justice Kamanda expressed concern about lawyers appearing in court dressed in miniskirts, brown shoes, and slippers — clothing he said breaches the Legal Practitioners’ Code of Conduct.
The Chief Justice revealed that several Judges have raised complaints about the issue, prompting him to issue a directive to the Bench.
Judges are now instructed not to hear cases from any lawyer who fails to appear in proper professional attire.
Justice Kamanda emphasized that maintaining courtroom decorum is essential to protecting the integrity of the Judiciary. He urged the SLBA to reinforce dress code awareness among its members, stressing that upholding ethical standards is a shared responsibility.
He further commended the Bar Association for its active role in recent judicial activities, including the Assize Service that marked the opening of the 2025/2026 Judicial Year.
Responding on behalf of the SLBA, Mrs. Gento-Kamara welcomed the Chief Justice’s concerns and pledged the Association’s continued commitment to safeguarding the dignity and ethics of the legal profession.
