The Judiciary of Sierra Leone

03/06/2026

CHIEF JUSTICE FACILITATES FIRST-EVER JUDICIARY CLINIC AS DEPUTY MINISTER OF HEALTH TURNS SOD FOR CONSTRUCTION

​Main Law Courts Building, Freetown, 2nd June 2026: In a major step toward enhancing welfare and healthcare delivery within the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, the Deputy Minister of Health, Prof. Charles Senesie, alongside representatives from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, joined leadership of the Judiciary today for the symbolic turning of the sod to construct the first-ever Judiciary Clinic.

​Facilitated by the Honourable Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, the project is designed to provide essential healthcare services for judges, magistrates, judicial staff, and other court workers.

​The proposed modern health facility will have a dedicated waiting room and treatment room, a resting room and a storage facility for essential drugs, a reliable electricity supply and running water, up-to-date healthcare equipment to support efficient medical care and dedicated nursing staff.

​Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Master and Registrar, Lloyd Hindolo Jusu, underscored the vital importance of a dedicated health center within the Judiciary. He assured that the facility would be properly managed and maintained for the benefit of all judicial staff.

​"The nature of judicial work is demanding and stressful, especially for judges and magistrates who handle complex matters daily," said Lloyd Hindolo Jusu, adding that "the mental and physical wellbeing of our officers and staff remains critical to the effective administration of justice."

​The Chief Executive Officer of ALCON Construction Company, Ing. Alieu J. Jalloh, expressed his gratitude for the confidence reposed in his firm. Outlining the architectural design and construction process, he assured the Judiciary and its partners that the project would meet all approved specifications and be delivered to the highest standards.

​Representing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Humanitarian Missionary Elder Lonnie Larson explained that the project is part of the Church’s broader humanitarian initiatives aimed at strengthening institutions and supporting communities. He disclosed that ALCON Construction Company was selected following a competitive bidding process.

​Elder Larson further revealed that the idea for the project was initiated following discussions with Honourable Justice Marke Ngegba, who highlighted the urgent need for a healthcare facility envison by the Honourable Chief Justice. He said immediate engagements were later held with the Honourable Chief Justice to discuss the implementation of the project.

He commended the Chief Justice for his commitment, openness and strong support towards the realization of the initiative.

“We are very pleased with the level of commitment demonstrated by the Honourable Chief Justice and the warm reception given to this humanitarian project. We believe this clinic will greatly benefit the Judiciary,” Elder Larson stated.

​The symbolic turning of the sod marks the official commencement of construction. It stands as another significant milestone in the ongoing welfare and institutional reforms championed by the Judiciary under the leadership of Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda.

For more information, please contact the Judiciary of Sierra Leone Communications and Public Affairs Unit or visit our website www.judiciary.gov.sl or follow us on our social media platforms.

01/06/2026

Court Reporters President Describes Chief Justice Komba Kamanda as Architect Behind Formation Of Court Reporters Association

Makeni City, Bombali District, 1st June, 2026: The President of the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association, Salifu Conteh, has described the Honourable Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, as the architect behind the identify and establishment of the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association.

Speaking during the Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), Salifu Conteh revealed that the current Chief Justice unknowingly gave the Association its professional identity during his early years in the Judiciary between 2005 and 2006.

“I must graciously express my sincere gratitude to His Lordship, Hon. Justice Komba Kamanda, for his unwavering support and immense contribution in making this day a reality,” Conteh stated.

According to him, the journey of the Association did not begin overnight, but dates back many years when Honourable Chief Justice Kamanda served as a Magistrate at Court No. 2 on Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown.
Conteh noted that during those formative years, Justice Kamanda consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and professional growth of court reporters.

“Colleagues, it was from the lips of His Lordship that the title ‘Court Reporter’ gained prominence and respect whenever he addressed us,” Conteh said, adding “At a time when others often referred to us dismissively as ‘journalists,’ he recognized our unique role within the justice system and proudly called us ‘Court Reporters.’

"His recognition gave us a sense of identity, purpose, and professional pride.”

The Association’s President further stated that Honourable Chief Justice Kamanda played a critical role in promoting unity among court reporters and encouraging constructive engagement between the Association and the Judiciary.

He disclosed that the Chief Justice regularly encouraged members of the profession, particularly during difficult periods when some individuals sought to discourage them through criticism and derogatory remarks.

“His Lordship consistently advised us to remain focused, united, and committed to our mission. His words of wisdom and encouragement helped strengthen our resolve during difficult times,” Salifu Conteh stressed.

He further praised the Chief Justice for maintaining close relationships with members of the profession, noting that Honourable Chief Justice Kamanda knows many court reporters by name, reflecting his genuine concern for their welfare.

He also acknowledged the support received from the Chief Justice during his tenure as President of the Association, emphasizing that he (Chief Justice) helped institutionalize the relationship between the Judiciary and the Court Reporters Association.

“Beyond providing financial support, he helped strengthen and institutionalize the relationship between the Association and the Judiciary, thereby laying a solid foundation for our continued growth and development,” he noted.

Meanwhile, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, disclosed that he had served as a Court Reporter for almost six years, which he said automatically makes him a member of the Association.

The SLAJ President commended the Chief Justice for his continuous support toward media growth and development, particularly his financial support toward the successful hosting of the AGM.

He described the gesture as a demonstration of the Judiciary’s commitment to empowering court reporters to effectively carry out their responsibilities within the justice sector.

The SLAJ President also called on the Chief Justice to facilitate nationwide training for court reporters on the new Criminal Procedure Act (CPA), 2024, to enable journalists better understand complex legal issues and recent amendments in the law.

He emphasized that court reporting remains a specialized field of journalism and noted that such training would help eliminate unprofessional and biased reporting while promoting accurate and truthful journalism.

Representing the Chief Justice at the AGM was the Director of Communications and Public Affairs of the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, Elkass Sannoh, who highlighted several achievements recorded under the leadership of Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda.

Elkass Sannoh said his presence at the AGM reflected the Judiciary’s commitment to sustaining its relationship with court reporters, noting that the partnership remains essential to justice delivery in Sierra Leone.

“It is the Court Reporters that inform the public, educate them, and help citizens understand what transpires in court,” he stated.

The AGM started on Friday, 29th May and ended on 31st May, 2026 with a new caretaker executive.

For more information, contact the Judiciary of Sierra Leone Communications and Public Affairs Unit or visit our website on www.judiciary.gov.sl or follow the Judiciary on our social media platforms.

31/05/2026

IN MAKENI CITY: The Director of Communications and Public Affairs of the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, Elkass Sannoh, has highlighted the unprecedented achievements recorded under the leadership of the Honourable Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, in less than two years since his appointment by the President, His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, in December 2024.
Among the landmark accomplishments, Director Elkass Sannoh noted that Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda became the first Chief Justice to decentralize Court of Appeal sittings to the provinces, commissioned the country’s first Sexual Offences Model Courts in Bo and Makeni, and also became the first Sierra Leonean to head and host the ECOWAS Judicial Council, among several other judicial reforms.

The Director of Communications reminded members of the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association that the Judiciary, under the current leadership, values and appreciates the vital role played by Court Reporters in supporting the administration of justice.

“A weak and irresponsible press can damage public trust in the courts, while a professional and ethical press strengthens democracy and the rule of law,” Elkass Sannoh stated.

He further emphasized that journalists must strive to report the truth, noting that a single inaccurate headline can destroy reputations, prejudice proceedings, or undermine confidence in the judicial process.
He also encouraged Court Reporters to promptly report any anomaly or misconduct within the corridors of the courts before rushing to publication, thereby allowing the administration the opportunity to address such concerns appropriately. He reiterated the Chief Justice’s commitment to sustaining the ongoing reforms within the Judiciary.

The President of the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association, Salifu Conteh, described the Honourable Chief Justice, Justice Komba Kamanda, as “a supporting pillar of media growth and development.”

Full details later.

For more information, contact the Communications and Public Affairs Unit of the Judiciary of Sierra Leone or visit our website at www.judiciary.gov.sl, or follow our social media platforms.

31/05/2026

19/05/2026

Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, has received outstanding recognition for an impactful lecture at the Freetown International Conference Centre at Aberdeen.

"Your inspiring lecture,explemplary leadership and dedication to the vision of a transformed and progressive Africa continue to impact lives and institutions across the continent."

Thank you for excellence in leadership.

16/05/2026

“The Kush Was for Safe Keeping,” Convict Aminata Mansaray Tells the Court

Main Law Courts Building, Freetown, 16th May 2026: The High Court of Sierra Leone, presided over by Honourable Justice Josephine F. Hinga, has sentenced 43-year-old Aminata Mansaray to Thirty (30) Years Imprisonment for Unlawful Possession of Kush and Dealing in Prohibited Drugs, contrary to Sections 8(a) and 7(c) of the National Drugs Control Act No. 10 of 2008.

The accused, now Defendant Aminata Mansaray, a trader and resident of Culvert, Race Course in Freetown, was arraigned on a two-count indictment of unlawful possession of 56 wraps of kush and dealing in prohibited drugs.

“The kush was for safe keeping,” the convict told the Court, adding that it was given to her by one Pupa.

According to the Forensic Toxicologist, Inspector Steven Alpha Turay, attached to the Transnational Organised Crime Unit (TOCU Headquarters), the substance was submitted for forensic laboratory analysis. The test results revealed that the samples consisted of dried marshmallow leaves with a sticky feel and pungent odour, containing traces of Synthetic Cannabinoid Beam Solution.

In her allocutus, the Defendant pleaded guilty and begged the Court to temper justice with mercy.

Defence Counsel, M.Y. Conteh Esq., in his plea in mitigation, informed the Court that the Defendant is a first-time offender and a mother of seven who was arrested together with her two-year-old child. Counsel further submitted that the convict did not waste the Court’s time and had shown remorse for her actions.

“My Lady, pursuant to Section 12(3) of the said Act, and considering the mitigating factors highlighted, the Defence is asking for a minimum sentence of five years,” M.Y. Conteh Esq. submitted.

Addressing the Court, Honourable Justice Josephine F. Hinga stated that the offences committed by the Defendant posed a serious threat not only to end users, but also to the country’s human capital.

Honourable Justice Hinga further stated that she had taken into consideration the fact that the Defendant has seven children and had not wasted the Court’s time.

In her judgment, on Count One, Honourable Justice Josephine F Hinga sentenced Convict Aminata Mansaray to thirty (30) years imprisonment, and on Count Two, she was also sentenced to thirty (30) years imprisonment, with both sentences to run concurrently.

Honourable Justice Hinga further ordered that the substance be destroyed in the presence of all relevant authorities and that a Certificate of Destruction be filed accordingly.
She also directed that the two-year-old child be placed in the care of the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs or a certified relative of the mother.

For more information, please contact the Judiciary of Sierra Leone Communications and Public Affairs Unit or visit the Judiciary’s website: www.judiciary.gov.sl or follow our social media platforms.

13/05/2026

An Affirmative Appraisal of Hon. Chief Justice Komba Kamanda’s Strides in Reforming Bail Regulations in Sierra Leone

By Moses Lamin Kamara

The administration of justice in any democratic society hinges significantly on the delicate balance between safeguarding individual liberty and ensuring public safety. In Sierra Leone, this balance has increasingly come under thoughtful scrutiny, particularly in relation to bail practices. At the forefront of these reforms stands Hon, Chief Komba Kamanda, whose proactive efforts toward strengthening bail regulations have marked a progressive chapter in the country’s judicial evolution.

One of the most commendable aspects of Chief Justice Kamanda’s approach is his commitment to fairness and consistency in bail decisions. Historically, the granting of bail in Sierra Leone has sometimes been criticized for unpredictability and disparities. By introducing clearer guidelines and reinforcing judicial discipline, his reforms aim to ensure that bail is not arbitrarily granted or denied but is instead grounded in objective legal principles. This promotes equality before the law—an essential pillar of justice.

Furthermore, the Chief Justice’s strides reflect a deep awareness of human rights considerations. Bail is not merely a procedural formality; it is a mechanism that protects the presumption of innocence. By refining bail regulations, His Lordship Chief Justice Kamanda has helped to reduce unnecessary pre-trial detention, which has long contributed to prison overcrowding and the erosion of detainees’ rights. His efforts align Sierra Leone more closely with international best practices, emphasizing that detention before conviction should be the exception, not the norm.

Another notable achievement is the emphasis on efficiency within the criminal justice system. Delays in trial proceedings often result in prolonged detention for accused persons who may ultimately be acquitted. Through structured bail reforms, Chief Justice Kamanda has indirectly encouraged faster case management, ensuring that justice is not only done but done in a timely manner. This contributes to restoring public confidence in the judiciary.

Equally important is his focus on accountability and judicial integrity. By setting standards and expectations for how bail applications should be handled, the reforms reduce the risk of abuse, corruption, or undue influence. This fosters transparency and reinforces the credibility of the courts, both domestically and internationally.

Moreover, Chief Justice Kamanda’s initiatives demonstrate strong institutional leadership. Reforming bail regulations is not an isolated act; it requires coordination among judges, magistrates, law enforcement agencies, and legal practitioners. His leadership in promoting training, awareness, and adherence to these reforms underscores a holistic vision for judicial improvement.

In conclusion, the strides made by Hon. Chief Justice Komba Kamanda in reforming bail regulations represent a significant advancement in Sierra Leone’s justice system. His efforts embody a forward-thinking judiciary that values fairness, efficiency, and human dignity. While challenges remain, these reforms lay a solid foundation for a more just and equitable legal system—one that truly serves the people it is meant to protect.

10/05/2026

Chief Justice Kamanda Delivers Lecture on Leadership, Receives Outstanding Award for Judicial Reforms

Freetown International Conference Centre, 10th May 2026: Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, has received a meritorious award in recognition of his outstanding leadership within the Judiciary and at the regional level as Chairman of the ECOWAS Judicial Council.

The inscription on the award reads: “You are being honoured for your exceptional contributions to judicial excellence, unprecedented reforms, institutional strengthening, and the advancement of the Rule of Law in Sierra Leone and West Africa.”
Delivering a lecture on the theme, “Celebrating Leadership Excellence and African Innovation,” ahead of the 2026 West Africa Heroes Award ceremony, the Honourable Chief Justice described the topic as both timely and urgent.

“Across Africa, the demand for accountable governance, democracy, and effective legal systems is growing louder,” he said, stressing that “citizens are no longer passive observers or onlookers; they are active participants who expect fairness, transparency, accountability, and, more importantly, tangible results because governance in every form affects their lives.”

According to the Honourable Chief Justice, the topic is best understood from a practical governance and judicial perspective, where law is applied in real institutional settings rather than in theoretical discussions. He noted that leadership involves respect for constitutional and legal boundaries, commitment to institutional procedures, consistency in decision-making under pressure, and accountability in the use of public authority.
He added that leadership requires the courage to reform deeply entrenched systems, the courage to embrace technology in environments where resistance is inevitable, and the courage to uphold integrity even when it is inconvenient.

The Honourable Chief Justice Kamanda used the occasion to highlight some of the unprecedented reforms undertaken during his tenure, including the first Court of Appeal sittings in the provinces and the establishment of the first Sexual Offences Model Courts in Bo and Makeni.

“We have also made significant advances in digital transformation with the establishment of an effective Virtual Court, an ultramodern library with e-library resources, and social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and a website to provide real-time information about the Judiciary and enhance transparency in the administration of justice,” he said.
He concluded by stating that the future of the African continent will not be determined solely by its natural resources, but by the strength of its institutions.

On his part, the keynote speaker from Namibia, Professor David Richard Namwandi, said he was delighted to return to Freetown after four decades, having previously studied at Fourah Bay College.

“Everything started in your country, which shaped my vision to become who I am today,” said Namibia’s eminent scholar and former Minister of Education. He explained that an institution he founded in 1994 with only one university student and one lecturer has grown into one of Namibia’s leading private universities. He is best known as the founder of the International University of Management (IUM).

Professor Namwandi said leadership is about perseverance and commitment to doing what is right even when it appears impossible.

The event climaxed with the awarding of distinguished personalities, including the Vice President of the African Development Bank Group, the Nigerian and Gambian Ambassadors to Sierra Leone, Government Ministers, academic scholars, and religious leaders.

For more information, contact the Judiciary of Sierra Leone Communications and Public Affairs Unit or visit our website at www.judiciary.gov.sl or follow our social media platforms.

07/05/2026

Through Pepperdine University in United States, Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, has certified Judges and Magistrates after successful completion of a three-day training on Foundational Commercial Mediation.
The training focused on equipping judicial officers
with modern skills in mediation, arbitration and negotiation.

05/05/2026

VIDEO NEWS

Chief Justice Kamanda Partners With U.S University To Deliver Commercial Mediation Training for Magistrates & Judges

*Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, 5th May, 2026:* US-based Professor, Corrie Napier has told journalists that they are in Sierra Leone to provide specialized training at the request of His Lordship the Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda aimed st strengthening capacity in commercial mediation.

The three-day intensive training on Foundational Commercial Mediation for Magistrates and Judges will end tomorrow, 6th May, 2026 marking a significant step toward strengthening Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) within the country’s justice system.

The training is being conducted by distinguished professors from Pepperdine University, United States, and focuses on equipping judicial officers with modern skills in Mediation, Arbitration, and Negotiation.

Honourable Chief Justice Kamanda expressed appreciation to Pepperdine University for offering the training free of cost, following his appeal for Sierra Leonean judicial officers to benefit from global best practices in dispute resolution.

“I am particularly pleased that Pepperdine University responded positively to my request to provide this training at no cost,” he said, stressing that the initiative is both timely and essential, as it forms part of his reform agenda to strengthen professional capacity among all judicial officers.

"It is my firm commitment that our courts embrace mediation as a vital mechanism for delivering justice that is accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of our people," the Chief Justice said.

Honourable Chief Justice Kamanda further disclosed that the initiative stems from his participation in the African Chief Justices’ ADR Forum, where he, alongside other Chief Justices underwent similar professional training. He noted that the current program is intended to cascade that knowledge across the judiciary, ensuring that Magistrates and Judges are equipped with practical ADR competencies.

He emphasized that mediation offers an effective pathway to reducing case backlog and enhancing public confidence in the justice system, describing the training as “highly relevant to Sierra Leone and to every judicial officer.”

For more information contact the Judiciary of Sierra Leone Communications and Public Affairs Unit or visit our website on www.judiciary.gov.sl or follow us on our social media platforms.