A coalition of civil society organisations has expressed strong concern over disciplinary complaints against rights lawyer Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah, warning that the move could undermine freedom of expression and public confidence in the judiciary.
In a joint statement issued in Freetown, the groups said the action, reportedly brought by the Deputy Master and Registrar on behalf of the judiciary, comes at a sensitive time when public debate around the administration of justice is intensifying.
The organisations acknowledged that lawyers are bound by professional ethics but stressed that the Constitution of Sierra Leone guarantees freedom of expression, particularly on matters of public interest. They argued that the judiciary, as a public institution, must remain open to criticism and scrutiny.
“Constructive and even strong criticism should be seen as an opportunity for reflection and reform, not as grounds for punishment,” the statement said, adding that sanctioning outspoken professionals risks eroding trust in the justice system.
The groups also cautioned the General Legal Council against actions that could be perceived as suppressing dissent or targeting alternative professional opinions. They said disciplinary processes must be guided by fairness, accountability, and integrity, rather than institutional self-protection.
The coalition said it will continue to monitor the situation closely, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding civic space, professional independence, and democratic accountability.
The statement was signed by the following organisations:
• African Women Leaders Network
• Budget Advocacy Network
• Campaign for Good Governance
• Campaign for Human Rights and Development
• Human Rights Defenders Network Sierra Leone
• Network Movement for Justice and Development
• Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice
• Citizens’ Barray
