The Chief Justice of The Gambia, Hassan B. Jallow, on Wednesday presided over the swearing-in of members of newly constituted Disciplinary Committees established under Section 28 of the Legal Practitioners Act, 2024.
The ceremony, held at the Judiciary complex in Banjul, marked a significant step toward strengthening professional ethics and accountability within the country’s legal system. The committees were established by the General Legal Council after consultations with the Attorney General’s Chambers, the Private Bar, and the Judiciary.
Speaking during the event, Chief Justice Jallow said the establishment of the committees is aimed at ensuring that allegations of misconduct against lawyers are handled fairly and transparently.
“It is crucial that allegations against legal practitioners are investigated and judicially determined, benefiting both the public and the legal practitioners,” he said. “Members of the bar are indispensable to the justice process, and their integrity is vital for maintaining public confidence in our legal system.”
Justice Jallow expressed confidence in the appointees, noting that the new bodies will enhance discipline within the profession and safeguard the reputation of the legal community.
High Court Judge Justice Ebrima Jaiteh, one of the committee members, said the responsibility entrusted to them was a serious one, emphasizing the need for fairness and impartiality in handling disciplinary matters.
“We have a responsibility to ensure this profession is properly regulated amidst the challenges we face,” he said. “We will deliver to expectations without fear or favor, affection, or ill will.”
The members of the committees took an oath of secrecy, pledging to uphold confidentiality and avoid any ex parte communication in all disciplinary proceedings.
The establishment of the Disciplinary Committees forms part of wider judicial reforms to promote integrity, transparency, and accountability within The Gambia’s legal sector.
