Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Judiciary of Sierra Leone has strongly refuted a press release issued by the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI), which alleged widespread public disillusionment and a lack of reform within the country’s judicial system.
In a statement released on Saturday, May 24, 2025, the Judiciary categorized CHRDI’s claims as “false and unsubstantiated allegations” and “misleading.”
The Judiciary expressed concern over the “malicious and inaccurate” nature of the report, stating that it failed to meet standards of “balanced reporting and credible data, independent verification, or engagement with the leadership of the Judiciary for clarification before publication.” It suggested that the report’s purpose was to “run a smear campaign against the current administration led by His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda.”
Specifically, the Judiciary challenged CHRDI’s assertions of “widespread corruption,” “selective justice,” and “political interference,” demanding verifiable evidence to substantiate these serious claims. The statement highlighted instances where powerful individuals have been held accountable regardless of status, underscoring the Judiciary’s impartiality.
Furthermore, the Judiciary detailed a series of significant reforms implemented over the past 200 days under Chief Justice Komba Kamanda’s leadership, directly contradicting CHRDI’s claim of little progress in transparency and efficiency. These reforms include:
Digitalization of Court Processes: Introduction of electronic case management systems to improve case flow and reduce delays.
Adoption Process Review: The Chief Justice personally oversees adoption files and has reviewed the implementation of Adoption Orders to build public trust.
Bailiff Department Restructuring: No executions are to be carried out without the approval of Supervisory Judges.
Establishment of Specialized Courts and Resources: The Sexual Offences Model Court in Bo and an ultramodern Library with e-Library resources have been established.
Expanded Access to Justice: Employment of more Magistrates and Judges, and the revival of High Court sittings in provincial areas like Pujehun.
Ongoing Training: Continuous legal education for judges and magistrates through international partnerships.
Forthcoming Court Expansions: More courts are planned for June to enhance access to justice and speedy delivery.
Public Engagement: Regular interaction with media, CSOs, and development partners to foster trust.
Timely Judgments: A commitment to prompt delivery of judgments.
The Judiciary stressed its constitutional independence and adherence to the principle of separation of powers, dismissing suggestions of political influence as “misleading.” It clarified that judicial misconduct allegations are investigated by the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, not by NGOs.
While acknowledging that reform is an ongoing process, the Judiciary stated its openness to internal and external audits and its strengthening of internal disciplinary mechanisms. It invited CHRDI and other civil society groups to engage directly, participate in public forums, and contribute constructively to reform efforts.
The Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda affirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to delivering justice fairly, efficiently, and independently. He urged the public, civil society, media, and international partners to support the Judiciary through “facts, collaboration, and shared values of due process and rule of law—not through the spread of misinformation.” He acknowledged existing challenges but assured the public of his commitment to making the Judiciary an “envy within the Sub-region,” emphasizing transparency and accountability.
For More News And Analysis About Sierra-Leone Follow Africa-Press
