The campaign for the presidency of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) gained significant momentum on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, in Freetown as candidates actively engaged legal practitioners within the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces. Madam Tuma Adama Jabbi, who is seeking a second term as SLBA President, participated in the recent event, presenting her vision and seeking support from this key segment of the legal community. Her challenger, Martina Baindu Egbenda, previously met with military lawyers on July 22, 2026, marking an earlier engagement in the election cycle and showing the importance both candidates place on the military legal vote. This direct outreach notes the strategic focus on securing endorsements from legal professionals serving in the armed forces.
Campaign Trail Details
Madam Tuma Adama Jabbi's campaign visit included members of her team, among them the Sierra Leone Bar Association’s Public Relations Officer, Alfred Kamanda. The presence of her campaign team provided additional support and facilitated discussions during the engagement. The SLBA presidential hopeful engaged with legal practitioners serving within the military, outlining her platform and addressing their concerns. The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces maintains a dedicated legal department comprising approximately 40 legal practitioners, contributing significantly to its operational framework and ensuring adherence to legal standards in all military activities. These legal professionals play a vital role in military justice, international humanitarian law, and various other legal aspects pertinent to the armed forces. Within this group, nearly 10 female lawyers are currently employed by the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, reflecting a diverse segment of the legal community being actively courted by the presidential candidates. Their presence signifies the growing inclusion of women in specialized legal roles within the military.
Context and Background
Retired Honourable Justice I.M. Koroma previously served as a legal practitioner within the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) and concluded his distinguished service with the rank of Colonel. His career exemplifies the pathway for legal professionals within the military to achieve high ranks. Another notable figure, Honourable Justice Mark Ngegba, also served as a legal practitioner within the RSLAF, retiring as a Captain. His tenure further illustrates the depth of legal expertise cultivated within the armed forces. Principal Magistrate Mustapha Braima-Jah further exemplifies this history, having served as a legal practitioner within the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces and retiring with the rank of Major. These individuals highlight the significant contributions of military lawyers to both the armed forces and the broader justice system in Sierra Leone. Their careers demonstrate the pathway from military legal service to prominent roles within the judiciary and legal profession, showcasing the valuable experience gained in such service. The rich history of military lawyers transitioning into key judicial and legal positions shows the quality and importance of the legal training and experience gained within the RSLAF.
Candidate Engagements
Madam Tuma Adama Jabbi recently met with legal practitioners of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) at Defence Headquarters in Freetown. This meeting provided a direct forum for her to connect with military legal staff and articulate her campaign promises. The Sierra Leone Bar Association’s elections are scheduled for August 1, 2026, intensifying the efforts of both candidates to secure every possible vote. A Defence spokesperson stated that both presidential candidates have been engaging members of the Armed Forces legal corps, recognizing their collective influence. The spokesperson added that this engagement was "in an effort to canvass support and secure votes ahead of the highly anticipated Sierra Leone Bar Association elections." Both presidential hopefuls have actively sought support from the military legal community, indicating its significance in the upcoming ballot. Their campaigns have focused on garnering votes from this specific segment of the legal profession, acknowledging their unique perspectives and contributions to the legal landscape of Sierra Leone. The candidates' direct interaction with these legal professionals shows the competitive nature of the election and the importance of every constituency within the SLBA.