Elkass Sannoh
His Lordship Justice Desmond Babatunde Edwards, the Honourable Chief Justice, has on the 26th May 2021 referred to the death of the late Hon. Justice Dr. Rosolu Bankole John Thompson as an irreparable loss of one of the finest legal minds in society.
Speaking at the Judiciary’s official opening Book of Condolence and Solemn Tribute Session in honour of the Late Justice Dr. Thompson, the Hon. Chief stated that following the track life of event of Dr. Thompson, he is convinced that the deceased lived a selfless and dedicated life to humanity.
He said, “you have played your part in this world’s stage and like a walking shadow that frets and struts and is heard no more you are no more. You have fought a good fight, finished the course and kept the faith, henceforth there is laid up for you a crown of righteousness.”
He added that such a selfless and remarkable character distinguished the late man as a true embodiment of the finest human and legal virtues.
To the family of the deceased and wife Mrs. Dr. Adiatu Thompson, the Hon. Chief Justice expressed on behalf of the Bench and his personal self his deepest sympathy and prayed that God comforts them.
In his declaration of purpose, Hon Justice Reginald Fyn JA, stated that the Bench, SLBA, Law Office and the Judiciary have lost a “Giant Cotton Tree.” According to him, tradition demands they should gather to honour and celebrate the good work of the late Justice.
In his tribute, President of the Residual Special Court of Sierra Leone, Justice Jon Kamanda, said the late Justice Dr. Thompson left behind indelible footprints that show young Lawyers the way to flourish in the legal field.
He described him as stunt man of no mean repute who demonstrated patriotism, excellence, humility and efficiently served his country and humanity.
Speaking on behalf of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, Lawyer Francis Gabbidon disclosed that the late Justice Dr. Thompson contributed greatly to the jurisprudence and justice of the country with several books, articles and chapters written to his credit.
The ceremony was climaxed by the signing of the Book of Condolence in honour of the late Justice Dr. Thompson. Among the sympathizers were the Secretary to President, Dr. Julius Sandi; SLBA President-Madam Michaella Swallow; Deputy Minister of Justice; Solicitor General-Mohamed Lamin Tarawally among a host of others.
