ACC Boss Installs Tuma Jabbie as New SLBA President

Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Francis Ben Kaifala, has stirred controversy by orchestrating the installation of Adama Tuma Jabbie as the new President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA). The coronation ceremony, held in Kenema, unfolded amidst allegations of electoral irregularities and has left the legal fraternity in turmoil.

According to Ben Kaifala, Jabbie clinched victory with a commanding 506 votes, leaving her opponents, Wara Serry Kamal and Augustine S. Marrah, trailing far behind with 23 and 15 votes respectively. However, the legitimacy of these results has been called into question by nine former Bar Association presidents, including prominent figures like Charles Francis Margai and Shears Moses.

The dissenting voices are demanding the annulment of the Kenema event and the organization of fresh, transparent elections that allow all members to participate. Presidential aspirants Sengbe Marrah and Serry-Kamal have decried the proceedings as a blatant assault on democratic principles, transparency, and integrity.

Their grievances stem from allegations of irregularities during the purported election. It is claimed that the process lacked a verified voter list and took place in a hall sealed off by security personnel under Kaifala’s orders. Furthermore, chaos ensued as security dispersed members with pepper spray and tear gas, leaving only a select few, predominantly supporters of Jabbie adorned with blue wristbands, to cast their votes.

Reports suggest that these select voters were handed multiple ballots while others were denied their right to vote. Astonishingly, under the watchful eye of Kaifala, the handful of voters managed to mysteriously generate an overwhelming 560 votes for Jabbie.

In response to these alarming allegations, the dissenting voices have taken a firm stance. They refuse to recognize the executive purportedly selected at the controversial AGM in Kenema and vow to pursue legal avenues to ensure fair and democratic elections. Furthermore, they pledge to hold accountable all those involved in the flawed electoral process.

They urge unity in the pursuit of justice and the restoration of democratic values. Together, they remain determined to reclaim the integrity of their esteemed institution and uphold the principles of democracy and fairness that form its foundation.