By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The Human Rights Defenders Network Sierra Leone has raised serious concerns over what it describes as a growing pattern of non-execution of court orders by the Sierra Leone Police, warning that the trend undermines the rule of law and weakens public confidence in the justice system.
The concerns were outlined during a Press Conference held on Tuesday at the organization’s Secretariat on Rasmusson Street in Freetown. The coalition, which comprises Civil Society Organisations and individuals advocating for the protection of human rights, called for urgent corrective measures and accountability within law enforcement institutions.
Executive Secretary of the network, Alphonsus B.M. Gbanie, said the press briefing was convened to draw national attention to what he described as a troubling disregard for judicial authority by law enforcement officers. He noted that the failure to implement court directives poses a direct threat to democratic governance and the administration of justice.
The network’s Human Rights Officer, Rachel Walters, presented a detailed statement highlighting findings from the organization’s recent monitoring. According to the statement, more than 25 court orders in the Western Area alone have reportedly been delayed or left unenforced by the Sierra Leone Police since January 2025.
The organisation stated that such actions may amount to contempt of court and constitute a violation of constitutional provisions. It warned that persistent non-compliance with judicial orders erodes the authority of the courts and diminishes public trust in state institutions.
HRDN-SL further emphasized that the failure to enforce court orders is particularly evident in civil and land-related disputes. It cautioned that this creates legal uncertainty and encourages individuals to resort to unlawful methods to resolve disputes, increasing the risk of what is commonly referred to as jungle justice.
The network called on the Inspector General of Police to take immediate steps to ensure that all outstanding court orders, injunctions and non-bailable warrants are executed without delay.
In its recommendations, HRDN-SL urged the Police Council to hold senior police officers accountable for ensuring compliance with court directives and to guarantee adequate support for bailiffs and court officials in enforcing judgments. It also called on the Judicial Council to initiate disciplinary action against officers who fail or refuse to carry out court orders.
Additionally, the organisation appealed to the donor and diplomatic community to support Civil Society efforts aimed at strengthening independent monitoring of court processes.
HRDN-SL maintained that urgent intervention is required to restore confidence in the justice system and uphold the rule of law in Sierra Leone.
