Former Bar Association President Basita Michael shames ACC Chief Ben Kaifala and other hoodlums for rigging the Sierra Leone Bar Association elections

I regret not being in Sierra Leone during the Bar Association elections. Based on social media reports and colleagues’ accounts, it was a significant victory for Wara Serry Kamal and Augustine Sengbeh Marrah.

Despite formidable opposition and the dishonourable actions of the ACC Commissioner, who sought to secure a victory for his candidate by any means necessary, this day demonstrated to the world that Wara Serry Kamal and Augustine Marrah are forces to be reckoned with. It is evident that certain elements within the government fear an independent Bar Association.

The disgraceful outcome of the SLBA elections underscores the hijacking of our government by a network of individuals who believe in tyrannical power and employ violence, intimidation, and oppression to maintain control.

The actions of the Anti-Corruption Commissioner have led many to question his self-proclaimed achievements and whether he can lead an independent and impartial fight against corruption.

As Bob Refell articulated on Facebook, “Francis Ben Kaifala was once a role model for many of us, advocating for democracy and the rule of law. We supported his initiatives like Black Friday in 2018. However, his recent actions have betrayed those ideals. Yesterday, I posted proud photos of being a lawyer. Today, I feel embarrassed to be associated with the legal profession and those who once inspired us.”

To my colleagues who share Bob’s sentiments, hold your heads high. Do not let Francis Ben Kaifala’s actions cause you embarrassment. If anyone should feel ashamed, it is the Commissioner and his cohorts. His blatant disregard for the rule of law and the democratic process has revealed him as a pretender and a wannabe tyrant.

Social media is now awash with scandalous videos and comments that have turned our country into a laughing stock. As a proud Sierra Leonean and a former President of the Bar Association, I commend the courage you have all shown in condemning these actions. Your voices resonate with honesty, integrity, and decency.

Your outrage, along with that of many colleagues and citizens, is essential in dismantling and eradicating corrupt and tyrannical behaviour. However, in our condemnation, I urge all of you to act with empathy and compassion, not necessarily in support of any individual, but in support of a Bar that upholds its integrity.