General Legal Council Calls for Reconsideration of JFK’s Detention
The General Legal Council (GLC) has called on the Supreme Court to reconsider the custodial punishment imposed on lawyer Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara (JFK) over his conduct during proceedings concerning the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Act, 2025.
In a press statement dated October 8, 2026, the Council expressed concern over the altercations between JFK and the Supreme Court Bench that resulted in a contempt of court finding and his subsequent detention.
The GLC described JFK’s conduct over the preceding two days, which occurred in public view, as “quite discourteous and misrepresentative of the legal profession.” It said the conduct was particularly concerning because it was directed at the country’s highest court and the Chief Justice, who also serves as President of the Supreme Court.
The Council reminded legal practitioners of Rule 4(2) of the Legal Practitioners (Code of Conduct) Rules, 2010, which requires lawyers to act courteously and respectfully towards everyone with whom they have professional contact, including judges, fellow lawyers, court staff, litigants, witnesses and clients.
“In the interest of progress of the matter and in the spirit of the good working relationship between the Bar and the Bench,” the Council urged the Supreme Court to reconsider the custodial punishment when proceedings resume or, where practicable, before the next hearing.
The GLC also welcomed the public interest generated by the constitutional proceedings and commended the Judiciary for accrediting media houses to provide live-streaming coverage, enabling Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad to follow the case.
It further acknowledged the legal practitioners from the Office of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, as well as those representing the applicants, for bringing the matter before the Court. The Council expressed hope that the proceedings would contribute to the development of Sierra Leone’s jurisprudence.
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