By Kemeseng Sanneh (Kexx)
Thirty-two lawyers were officially enrolled into the Gambian Bar as advocates of the Supreme Court. The event was held at the Superior Courts Complex in Banjul. The event was attended by the Chief Justice, High Court Judges, members of the General Legal Council, members of the Gambia Bar Association, senior lawyers and family members of the enrolled lawyers.
Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow congratulated the newly enrolled lawyers and then emphasised it signifies their readiness to practice law. He challenged them to embody wisdom and integrity, which are essential qualities for becoming exemplary legal practitioners. He urged them to familiarise themselves with the code of conduct of legal practitioners.
The Chief Justice highlighted the importance of managing clients’ cases without delay and stressed that they must never misappropriate their clients’ money or property. He called on them to maintain the integrity of the court and respect their colleagues, reminding them that as officers of the court, they should never mislead the court. He concluded by stating that the duties of the court take precedence over their interests and those of their clients.
Neneh Cham, the President of the Gambia Bar Association also congratulated them. She reminded them that they are expected to adhere to the Code of Conduct for Legal Practitioners, indicating that their conduct in and out of court is no longer their own, as they are now part of a noble profession that demands much from them in terms of accountability to the court, clients, colleagues, employers, communities and the nation.
Cham stated that integrity is crucial and a lawyer without integrity is like a building without a foundation. She emphasised that both the client and the court must trust them, noting that integrity must always come first.
Abdoulie Colley, the Registrar General who represented the Attorney General, congratulated the newly enrolled lawyers as they began their careers. He reminded them that legal practitioners must adhere to high standards of professionalism. He stressed that integrity is the most important asset a legal practitioner can possess and urged them to maintain it at all times. Additionally, he encouraged them to serve the public by taking “pro bono” cases and to become well-versed in the code of conduct for legal practitioners.
Essa Trawally, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, delivered the vote of thanks. He assured the leadership of the Judiciary that as they embark on the new phase of their careers, they will uphold the values of justice, integrity and service. He stated that they are committed to adhere to the code of conduct for legal practitioners and they would be mindful of the responsibilities bestowed on them by virtue of the profession.
