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A coalition of leading civil society organizations (CSOs) has publicly criticized the judiciary’s decision to pursue disciplinary action against outspoken lawyer and rights activist Augustine Sorie Sengbe Marrah, Esq.
In a joint statement issued Tuesday, December 24, the groups expressed “deep concern” over the complaint filed by the Deputy Master and Registrar, Lloyd Hindolo Jusu, which seeks an investigation by the General Legal Council for alleged professional misconduct.
The complaint, dated December 16, cites Marrah’s use of “insulting, derogatory, and wholly inappropriate language” during a televised appearance, which it alleges was aimed at undermining public confidence in the judiciary. It also references a prior conviction for criminal contempt in 2020 and an incident where Marrah was reportedly filmed “climbing on top of the table of the Supreme Court.”
The Disciplinary Committee has since notified Marrah to respond to the allegations by December 29.
The CSO coalition, which includes the Campaign for Human Rights and Development (CHRDI), the Network Movement for Justice and Development (NMJD), and the Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ), among others, argues the move could be perceived as targeting dissent.
“The judiciary, like all public institutions, must remain open to criticism and scrutiny,” the statement reads. It emphasizes that lawyers’ right to freedom of expression is constitutionally protected, particularly on matters of public interest.
The groups cautioned the General Legal Council to ensure the process is fair and “not to be seen as an instrument for suppressing dissent.” They urged that disciplinary mechanisms uphold accountability and integrity rather than serve “institutional self-defence.”
The organizations said they will continue to monitor the situation closely, reaffirming their commitment to protecting civic space and professional independence.
Hmmm…this sort of condemnations requires close observation into our CSOs and their activities whether in the best interest of the people they advocate for or themselves.
In every circumstances, discipline is part of decent society among human race. Someone who is expected to be a role model but does the contrary, should not be disciplined? We must move forward as a decent society not cherry picking who to be disciplined and not
In my candid opinion, the supposed lawyer must face the disciplinary committee. Nobody is above the law and people should not be protected under the pretext of free speech or human rights. The legal profession is a noble one and its members should be role models in society. They should not be seen climbing tables or making frivolous and irresponsible comments on television.
Let Marrah face the disciplinary committee and await the outcome please.