By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a heartfelt and inspiring appearance, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr recently attended the First Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Lawyer’s Society, where she was invited as a Distinguished Guest. The gathering brought together legal professionals from various backgrounds to discuss the vital role lawyers play in the framework of democratic governance.
During the meeting, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr took the opportunity to deliver a goodwill message to the society’s members. She addressed the theme of the event, “The Role of Lawyers in Democratic Governance,” reminding the attendees of the critical responsibilities they hold in shaping and maintaining a democratic society.
Her message was one of encouragement, urging the lawyers to uphold their noble duties with integrity and passion.
In her remarks, the Mayor acknowledged that lawyers are at the heart of democratic institutions. She emphasized that they are not just advocates in the courtroom but also defenders of the very principles that underpin a free and just society.
The role of lawyers extends beyond legal practice; it includes upholding the values of democracy, ensuring the protection of individual rights, and holding governments and institutions accountable.
The Mayor spoke passionately about the necessity for legal professionals to remain committed to such ideals, particularly as they serve the public in ways that transcend their professional obligations.
One of the key messages from Mayor Aki-Sawyer’s speech was the need for lawyers to embody courage, consistency, and commitment. She spoke about how challenging it can be to stand up for justice and the rule of law, especially in times when the society or government may not always be aligned with those values. “It is in the face of adversity that the true character of a lawyer is revealed,” the Mayor stated, underscoring that it takes immense courage to defend democracy in challenging times.
Further, the Mayor spoke about the consistency that lawyers must maintain in their work. She reminded the society members that their actions must always reflect the core values of democracy, justice, and equality. The consistency of their work, whether in the courtroom, community outreach, or through the law’s influence on policy, has a profound impact on the shaping of a democratic society.
Lastly, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr encouraged the lawyers to stay committed to their calling. She expressed confidence in the ability of the society’s members to continue serving as guardians of the democratic principles enshrined in the nation’s motto of ‘Unity, Freedom, and Justice.’
She acknowledged the pivotal role that the legal community plays in shaping a future that is fair and just for all, urging the lawyers to keep striving toward the highest standards of practice and ethical responsibility.
The meeting concluded with the Mayor’s heartfelt wishes for the continued success of The Lawyer’s Society. She expressed her hope that the society’s work would inspire future generations of lawyers to carry the torch of democracy with honour and dedication.
As the event ended, there was a shared sense of optimism among the attendees, knowing that their collective efforts would contribute to the advancement of justice, unity, and freedom for all.
