By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Executive of the Guild of Newspaper Editors–Sierra Leone on Tuesday, 9 December, paid a courtesy visit to Chief Justice, Komba Kamanda, at his Chambers on Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown, during which both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation between the judiciary and the media in promoting accountability and public trust.
Speaking on behalf of the Guild, Chairman Thomas Dixon commended Chief Justice Komba Kamanda for the ongoing judicial reforms that continue to reshape Sierra Leone’s justice landscape. He highlighted key developments such as the establishment of a new court in Mile 91, the deployment of resident judges across several districts and the decentralization of the Appeals Court to the provinces. According to him, those reforms are crucial in improving timely access to justice for citizens nationwide.
Chairman Thomas Dixon also raised concerns surrounding the recently issued Practice Direction, which has sparked discussions within the legal community. He explained that the Guild is keen to fully understand its implications and requested the judiciary’s support, particularly in training editors on court reporting, procedural reforms and ethical judicial coverage. He outlined the Guild’s short- and long-term plans and expressed hope for stronger institutional collaboration.
Chief Justice Komba Kamanda warmly welcomed the delegation, describing the media as an indispensable pillar of democracy. He stressed that journalists must be allowed to operate freely, professionally and without fear, noting that a strong press enhances governance and strengthens public accountability. He assured the Guild of his continued open-door policy and encouraged constructive criticism that can guide improvements within the justice system.
In his remarks, the Chief Justice thanked the Editors’ Guild for acknowledging recent achievements, including the new sexual offences courts in Bo and Kono, the long-awaited establishment of a judicial library after more than two decades and expanded training opportunities for judicial officers and administrative staff.
Addressing concerns over the Practice Direction, CJ Komba Kamanda clarified that such directives are not unprecedented. He referenced similar measures issued by previous Chief Justices during the Ebola outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that the current Practice Direction has already yielded positive outcomes and is part of broader institutional reforms intended to modernize court processes for future generations.
The meeting concluded with appreciation from the Guild’s Secretary General, Ishmail Saidu Kanu, Esq., who thanked the Chief Justice for his hospitality and reaffirmed the Guild’s commitment to deepening judicial–media engagement for the benefit of the public.
