NCRA Opens ID Production Centre in Lungi to Boost Decentralisation

February 13, 2026

In a major boost to decentralisation and improved access to legal identity services, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has officially opened a National Identification Card production and issuance outlet in Kasongha, Lungi, Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom in Port Loko District.

The new facility was commissioned by the Director General of the NCRA, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi and is expected to serve residents of Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom, as well as adjoining chiefdoms including Lokomasama, Kamasondo and surrounding communities across Port Loko District.

The establishment of the Lungi outlet forms part of Government’s broader policy drive to decentralize essential public services and reduce the financial and logistical burden faced by citizens who previously had to travel to Freetown or other district centres to obtain their national identity cards.

Addressing traditional leaders, security personnel, youth representatives and community members during the launch ceremony, Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi said the opening of the centre fulfils President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to expand ID services nationwide.

“When this project was launched, His Excellency made it clear that ID services would no longer remain concentrated in Freetown,” Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi stated. “Today, we are delivering on that promise. The people of Lungi and its surrounding communities no longer need to travel long distances or incur unnecessary costs to secure their national ID cards. The service is now closer to them.”

For years, residents of Lungi, home to the Freetown International Airport, were compelled to cross over to Freetown or travel to Port Loko town to process their ID cards. The associated transportation, feeding and sometimes accommodation costs posed significant challenges, particularly for low-income earners, women, youths and the elderly.

Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi noted that the new centre will provide immediate economic relief while improving efficiency in service delivery.

“In the past, citizens bore extra expenses simply to obtain a single document. That inconvenience has now been addressed. Eligible residents can now access services here within the stipulated timeframe,” he assured.

Beyond convenience, the Director General emphasized that expanding access to national ID cards strengthens social inclusion and national development. The national ID card is increasingly required for banking services, passport acquisition, university admission, driver’s licence processing, employment documentation, business registration and other public and private sector transactions.

He reminded residents that obtaining a national ID card is both a right and a civic responsibility.

“Government has created the enabling environment. It is now the responsibility of every eligible citizen and legal resident to register and secure their national identity. Do not wait until you miss critical opportunities due to lack of proper identification,” he urged.

Responding to media inquiries, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi confirmed that the Lungi outlet operates under the same standards, procedures and quality controls as the NCRA head office in Freetown and other regional centres nationwide. He added that any fee adjustments would strictly follow contractual agreements and regulatory guidance.

“We are a compliant institution,” he said. “Any review of fees will align with the agreement between Government and service vendors and will be guided by the Bank of Sierra Leone.”

Local authorities welcomed the development. Acting Chiefdom Speaker of Kaffu Bullom Chiefdom and Section Chief, Alhaji Al-Imam Samba Dumbuya II, expressed appreciation to Government and the NCRA leadership for responding to longstanding appeals for an office in Lungi.

“Our Paramount Chief and community stakeholders have long advocated for this service,” he said. “Today marks a significant milestone for our chiefdom. We thank the Government and the NCRA for bringing this essential facility to our people.”

Community members also described the new outlet as a symbol of relief and inclusion, noting that repeated journeys to Freetown or Port Loko had previously caused hardship and delays.

With identity verification playing a crucial role in governance, law enforcement and development planning, the NCRA leadership maintained that expanded registration coverage will enhance the integrity of national records and support national security coordination.

The Authority reiterated that decentralisation remains central to its operational strategy. In addition to establishing permanent offices, the NCRA continues to deploy mobile registration teams to remote communities upon request to ensure broader national coverage.

Under the leadership of Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, the NCRA continues to operationalize Government’s decentralisation agenda, translating policy commitments into accessible public services for communities across Sierra Leone.

Marampa Mines Women’s Premier League 2025/2026 Season Officially Underway

February 13, 2026

The 2025/2026 season of the Marampa Mines Women’s Premier League (MWPL) has officially kicked off, marking the return of top-flight women’s football with renewed energy and heightened expectations across Sierra Leone.

Following the off-season break, clubs have returned to action with determination and focus, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting and highly competitive campaign. Fans are already witnessing intense matchups as teams battle for early dominance in the standings.

The league continues to enjoy robust backing from Marampa Mines Limited, whose sponsorship package of USD 150,000 (approximately Le 3,387,030) reaffirms the company’s commitment to promoting women’s football and empowering female athletes nationwide. The investment is expected to enhance league organization, improve match-day experience, strengthen fan engagement and contribute to the broader development of women’s sports, particularly within host communities.

Early fixtures have demonstrated the competitive spirit of the season. Mogbwemo Queens FC have emerged as early table leaders following an impressive run of performances. Ram Kamara FC are closely trailing in second position, signaling the possibility of a tightly contested title race as the season progresses.

Meanwhile, teams at the lower end of the table are already engaged in fierce battles to avoid relegation. The intensity of competition suggests that every fixture will carry significant weight, with clubs determined to secure their top-flight status and avoid slipping into the drop zone.

League officials have expressed optimism that the 2025/2026 season will not only deliver high-quality football but also serve as a powerful platform for showcasing the talent, discipline and resilience of women footballers across the country. The Marampa Mines Women’s Premier League has increasingly become a vital avenue for nurturing emerging talent and inspiring young girls to pursue careers in sports.

Beyond the competition itself, stakeholders believe the league continues to play a significant role in community development, youth empowerment and the promotion of gender equality in sports. The sustained corporate support from Marampa Mines Limited is viewed as a strong endorsement of women’s football and its growing impact on national development.

As the season unfolds, supporters are encouraged to follow match schedules, team updates and league developments through official channels, including www.marampamines.com (http://www.marampamines.com).

With the championship race taking shape and early momentum already building, the 2025/2026 Marampa Mines Women’s Premier League promises months of thrilling football action and memorable sporting moments.

APC Secretary General Remanded; Party Cleared After Suspension Ban Lifted

February 13, 2026

By Amin Kef Sesay

The National Secretary General of the main opposition All Peoples Congress (APC), Lansana Dumbuya Esq., has pleaded not guilty to three criminal charges, even as the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) officially lifted a brief suspension imposed on the party following payment of fines.

Lansana Dumbuya made his first court appearance on Thursday, 12 February 2026, before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at Court No. 1 on Pademba Road in Freetown. He is facing three counts filed by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), including incitement, insulting conduct and public insult against the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone.

According to the prosecution, the charges stem from statements allegedly made by the APC National Secretary General which were deemed offensive and capable of inciting public disorder. The state maintains that such remarks contravene provisions of the law relating to incitement and conduct likely to disturb public peace.

However, the defence team argued that the statements attributed to Lansana Dumbuya fall within the ambit of lawful political expression and democratic engagement. Defence lawyers contended that in a constitutional democracy, political actors must be allowed to express dissenting views, emphasizing the protection of freedom of speech under the law.

After the charges were read in court, Lansana Dumbuya pleaded not guilty to all three counts.

However, Magistrate Brima Jah denied bail following preliminary submissions and ordered that the accused be remanded pending further proceedings. While detailed reasons for the denial were not immediately provided in open court, the matter has been adjourned to 16 February 2026 for hearing.

The case has generated considerable public and political attention, particularly given the prevailing political climate in the country.

Meanwhile, in a separate but related development affecting the APC, the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) on the same day announced the lifting of a suspension earlier imposed on the party.

In a letter dated 12 February 2026 and addressed to the APC National Secretary General at the party’s headquarters at 11A Old Railway Line, Brookfields, Freetown, the Commission confirmed that it had reviewed the circumstances surrounding the suspension imposed on 11 February 2026.

The letter, signed by the Executive Secretary of the PPRC, Olushogo A. David, stated that the decision to lift the suspension followed the party’s compliance with the payment of fines earlier imposed by the Commission.

“I am directed by the Commission to refer to the suspension imposed on the All People’s Congress (APC) Party on 11th February, 2026 and to inform you that the Commission has reviewed the circumstances relating to the said suspension,” the correspondence noted.

It further stated that “following the Party’s compliance with the payment of the fines imposed, the Commission is pleased to notify your Party that the suspension is hereby lifted with immediate effect.”

The lifting of the suspension restores the APC to full operational status under the Political Parties Act (No. 25) of 2022, allowing it to resume meetings, conduct internal elections, and carry out other administrative and political activities within the framework of the law.

The PPRC urged the party to continue upholding the provisions of the Political Parties Act and to maintain full compliance with all directives and obligations required of registered political parties in Sierra Leone.

Although the Commission’s letter did not detail the specific violations that led to the fines, the action underscores its regulatory mandate to ensure that political parties operate in accordance with national laws.

With the APC’s National Secretary General currently facing criminal proceedings and the party’s suspension now lifted, political observers say the coming days will be critical for both the party’s internal cohesion and its broader political engagement.

The court hearing scheduled for 16 February 2026 is expected to determine the next phase of the legal process, as stakeholders across the political spectrum continue to monitor developments closely.

Lawyers’ Society Questions Proposed Appointment of Edmond Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner

February 13, 2026

President of Lawyers’ Society, Augustine Sorie Sengbeh Marah

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Lawyers’ Society has expressed strong reservations over the proposed appointment of Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), citing ongoing constitutional review discussions and pending electoral reform recommendations.

In a Press Release issued following the circulation of a letter dated 10 February 2026, reportedly from the Office of the President, the Society noted that the correspondence sought the views of all registered political parties regarding the President’s intention to appoint Edmond Sylvester Alpha, who currently serves as an ECSL Commissioner, as Chief Electoral Commissioner.

The consultation process is in line with Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone (as amended), which requires the President to consult all registered political parties prior to appointing a Chief Electoral Commissioner.

However, the Lawyers’ Society cautioned that proceeding with the appointment at this stage could undermine ongoing constitutional reform efforts and the implementation of key provisions contained in the Agreement for National Unity, commonly referred to as the Tripartite Agreement.

According to the Society, both the Constitutional Review Committee Report and the Tripartite Report recommend amendments to the existing appointment procedure under Section 32(3). Specifically, the report calls for the establishment of a Search and Nomination Committee tasked with providing nominees to the President for appointment to the ECSL and the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC).

The Society argued that appointing a new Chief Electoral Commissioner before implementing those recommendations may compromise the credibility of the reform process.

“Proceeding with the appointment prior to implementing Recommendation 36 of the Tripartite Recommendations and Recommendation 8.10 of the Constitutional Review Committee may create the perception of insufficient commitment to genuine electoral reforms and governance,” the statement noted.

The Society further referenced Recommendation 6, which calls for an external functional review of the ECSL, suggesting that the appointment of a new Chief Electoral Commissioner before such reforms are enacted could risk repeating past challenges related to transparency and accountability, particularly those raised in the aftermath of the 2023 elections.

It emphasized that reform measures aimed at strengthening electoral governance should be fully implemented before key leadership appointments are made.

In light of those concerns, the Lawyers’ Society urged the Government of Sierra Leone to reconsider the timing of the proposed appointment, conclude the constitutional review process and fully implement the recommendations contained in the Tripartite Agreement especially those relating to the appointment procedures for members of the ECSL and PPRC.

The proposed appointment has sparked debate among legal and political stakeholders, with observers noting that electoral reforms remain central to national dialogue on governance and institutional integrity.

Government authorities have yet to issue an official response to the concerns raised by the Society.

Brutal Home Attack Claims Life of COMAHS Lecturer, Triggers National Demand for Justice

February 11, 2026

The late Valentina Bisodun Catherine Kamanda (née Nicol)

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The nation has been thrown into deep mourning following the tragic killing of Valentina Bisodun Catherine Kamanda (née Nicol), a respected matron and lecturer at the Faculty of Nursing, College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS), University of Sierra Leone. The shocking incident, which reportedly occurred on the night of Sunday, February 8, 2026, at her residence in Goderich, Freetown, has sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns about public safety and violent crime.

According to preliminary reports circulating on social media and from close associates, Valentina Bisodun Catherine Kamanda was allegedly attacked by unknown assailants at her home and brutally killed. Her child, who was also attacked during the incident, reportedly sustained injuries. The assailants carted away her mobile phone, laptop computer and other valuables.

Valentina Bisodun Catherine Kamanda was widely known not only for her professional dedication as a lecturer and matron but also for her strong Christian faith. She was an active member of Zion Praise Tabernacle Church on Hill Station, where she was described as a committed servant of God and a pillar within the church community. News of her death has sent shockwaves through the academic, medical and religious communities, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, students and members of the public.

A comment attributed to a former classmate on social media captured the depth of the grief felt nationwide, describing the late lecturer as a devoted nurse and expressing anguish over what was described as a violent attack in her own home. Many within the nursing profession, including members of the Sierra Leone Nurses Association, have lamented the loss of a professional they say served with compassion, discipline and integrity.

The Sierra Leone Police have launched an investigation into the incident to identify and apprehend those responsible. However, the brutal nature of the killing has intensified public calls for swift and transparent action, as citizens demand justice for the late lecturer and protection for vulnerable families.

The Christian Community, alongside civil society voices and concerned citizens, has urged the Government of President Julius Maada Bio and the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, to ensure that those responsible for the heinous crime are brought to book without delay. They have also called for strengthened security measures, particularly in residential communities, to prevent further loss of innocent lives.

Investigations continue as the nation watches closely, hopeful that justice will prevail. The tragic death of Valentina Kamanda remains a painful reminder of the urgent need to confront violent crime decisively, restore public confidence in security institutions and honour the memory of a woman whose life was devoted to service, education and faith.

Chinese Medical Team Trains UNICEF Sierra Leone Staff in Life-Saving First Aid Skills

February 11, 2026

By Abu Bakarr Kargbo

The 26th Batch Chinese Medical Team successfully conducted an on-site First Aid Training Programme for staff of UNICEF Sierra Leone at the UNICEF Head Office in Freetown on Monday. This vital two-day training aims to equip participants with essential first aid skills, including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), trauma first aid and emergency response techniques, thereby enhancing their preparedness for medical emergencies.

The training commenced with a theoretical session where participants learned about the principles of first aid, followed by practical demonstrations designed to reinforce the skills taught. Captain Liu Longfei of the 26th Batch Chinese Medical Team expressed his team’s dedication to imparting life-saving skills. “On behalf of the Chinese Medical Team, we are delighted to provide this on-site first-aid training to UNICEF Sierra Leone,” he stated, emphasizing the initiative as part of their shared commitment to protecting lives in Sierra Leone.

Captain Liu Longfei highlighted the significance of equipping UNICEF staff with necessary skills for emergency situations. “This training supports our staff in dealing with emergencies effectively,” he noted. Since 2024, the Chinese Medical Team has collaborated with various organizations and individuals, including students, in offering first aid training across sectors such as mining and healthcare. That collaboration underscores a collective commitment to health and safety within the community.

UNICEF Representative to Sierra Leone, Rudolph Schwenk, spoke about the importance of ensuring staff wellbeing and security. “At UNICEF, the wellbeing, safety and security of our staff are central to our duty of care,” he remarked. Rudolph Schwenk added that it is crucial to equip colleagues with practical skills to respond effectively in medical emergencies, which helps create a safe and supportive working environment.

He further elaborated, stating, “This training represents an important investment in staff wellbeing and emergency preparedness. The knowledge and skills shared over the course of this session will strengthen our collective capacity to respond promptly and appropriately should an incident occur, whether in the workplace or in the field.”

Swapping roles from trainers to participants, both Captain Liu Longfei and Rudolph Schwenk encouraged all attendees to engage fully with the training. Rudolph Schwenk urged participants to ask questions and actively participate in practical sessions to maximize the training’s value. “We sincerely appreciate the Chinese Medical Team for their continued partnership and for generously sharing their expertise with UNICEF,” he expressed. “Your contribution reflects the strong spirit of collaboration that underpins our work and supports our shared commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting health.”

The successful collaboration between the 26th Batch Chinese Medical Team and UNICEF Sierra Leone exemplifies the dedication of both organizations to enhance health safety and emergency preparedness in the nation. As Sierra Leone continues to face various health challenges, such initiatives are critical for building a resilient workforce capable of responding to unforeseen incidents.

This first aid training program is one of many efforts designed to establish a robust health safety framework, not only for UNICEF staff but also for diverse sectors within Sierra Leone. Participants left the training feeling empowered and equipped with the knowledge necessary to respond effectively in times of crisis, ensuring that they can contribute positively to the wellbeing of their communities.

ECOWAS Court, Sierra Leone Open Talks to Strengthen Enforcement of Regional Judgments

February 11, 2026

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Government of Sierra Leone on Tuesday 10th February 2026 opened a bilateral meeting on the status of enforcement of judgments of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice at the Mamba Point Hotel, Lagoonda, Aberdeen, in Freetown, as part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS.

The meeting is aimed at strengthening the enforcement of judgments of the ECOWAS Court and reinforcing the rule of law within the regional legal framework. Its objectives include enhancing Member State compliance with binding Court judgments, harmonizing enforcement procedures across national jurisdictions, building the technical and institutional capacity of national authorities responsible for implementation, identifying and addressing legal, administrative, political and institutional challenges that hinder effective enforcement.

It also seeks to establish a collaborative framework between the Court, competent national authorities and relevant stakeholders, promote the sharing of best practices, develop policy recommendations and propose practical mechanisms to improve enforcement outcomes and consistency across Member States.

In the welcome address, the Chief Registrar of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama, said the meeting reflects a shared recognition that justice does not end with the delivery of a judgment but is only realized when judgments are effectively enforced and their outcomes made tangible for beneficiaries and the Community. He described the ECOWAS Court as a central pillar of the Community’s legal and institutional architecture and a key instrument for protecting human rights and strengthening the rule of law across the region.

Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama said the authority and credibility of any court depend not only on the quality of its decisions but on the degree of compliance with those decisions. He stressed that enforcement of judgments is a legal obligation arising from the ECOWAS Revised Treaty and a political and moral commitment undertaken by Member States. He noted that non enforcement and delayed enforcement remain significant challenges that undermine citizens’ confidence in Community justice, weaken the coherence of the ECOWAS legal order and affect the effectiveness of regional integration.

He highlighted Article 24 of the Supplementary Act relating to the Community Court of Justice, which establishes the binding and final nature of the Court’s judgments and obliges Member States to enforce them in accordance with their national procedures without additional validation. He said compliance with this provision affirms the supremacy and effectiveness of Community law and failure to enforce judgments undermines the rule of law at the regional level. Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama added that the meeting aims to diagnose challenges and identify concrete and legally sound solutions, including clearer procedures, improved reporting mechanisms and stronger institutional synergies, while fostering cooperation and mutual respect among Member States.

In his address, the President of the Community Court of Justice, Honourable Justice Ricardo C. M. Gonçalves, said the bilateral engagement provides a platform for dialogue between the Court and national authorities, including the Attorney General, the Ministry of Justice, the Judiciary and other institutions, to assess the status of enforcement of Court judgments and strengthen collaboration. He said the meeting also aims to identify challenges hindering effective implementation and propose practical solutions to enhance compliance.

Justice Ricardo C. M. Gonçalves disclosed that since the establishment of the Court, 18 judgments have been delivered in cases involving Sierra Leone, with only one enforced, six dismissed, and 11 remaining unenforced. He said the existence of a significant number of unenforced judgments underscores the urgent need for sustained engagement and cooperation to fulfil the Court’s legal mandates. Justice Ricardo C. M. Gonçalves described enforcement as the cornerstone of justice, the rule of law and regional integration, noting that compliance demonstrates political will and institutional capacity and reinforces the credibility of the Court as a guardian of justice and human rights.

The President of the Community Court of Justice explained that the enforcement process involves communication of judgments to national authorities, coordination with national courts and administrative agencies, and the allocation of resources for implementation, particularly in cases involving compensation or restitution. He identified limited institutional coordination, absence of clear implementation timelines, administrative bottlenecks and political sensitivities as factors contributing to delays in enforcement. According to him the meeting seeks to develop a framework for regular communication between the Court and national authorities, clarify responsibilities, establish timelines for enforcement and consider the role of Civil Society Organisations in monitoring compliance and promoting public awareness of Court decisions.

Delivering the keynote address, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Sierra Leone, Alpha Sesay, described the meeting as a critical act of commitment to regional integration, justice and the rule of law. He said the ECOWAS Court has become a vital forum for the peaceful resolution of disputes and for ensuring that Community law is effective, particularly following the expansion of its jurisdiction to include human rights protection.

The Attorney General said judgments of the ECOWAS Court are final and binding on Member States and their enforcement is a legal obligation flowing from the ECOWAS Treaty and Supplementary Protocols. He noted that Court decisions involving Sierra Leone have contributed to redress for individual applicants and the development of regional human rights standards guiding national institutions across West Africa. Alpha Sesay acknowledged that enforcement remains uneven across the region due to domestic legal and procedural constraints, budgetary limitations, insufficient coordination among national institutions and limited awareness of Community law obligations.

He said Sierra Leone recognizes the importance of complying with international and regional obligations and is strengthening internal coordination among the Office of the Attorney General, the Ministry of Finance, sector Ministries and other stakeholders to ensure judgments are processed, budgeted for and implemented in a timely and transparent manner. The Minister emphasized that enforcement is not solely a legal act but an administrative, financial and political process requiring deliberate institutional alignment. He proposed the establishment of national enforcement frameworks and focal points, enhanced engagement between the Court and Member States, fiscal planning for monetary awards, sustained political commitment and stronger monitoring and technical support by ECOWAS institutions.

The opening day concluded with the formal commencement of technical deliberations, setting the tone for in depth engagements among the ECOWAS Court delegation, Sierra Leonean authorities and other stakeholders on practical steps to improve enforcement of regional court judgments.

The bilateral meeting continues over the coming days with structured sessions, stakeholder consultations and the development of an action framework and timelines aimed at strengthening compliance, institutional coordination and accountability in the implementation of judgments of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice within Sierra Leone and across the ECOWAS region.

the Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Sierra Leone, Alpha Sesay

SLPP Constitution Sparks Debate Over Internal Democracy and Leadership Succession

February 11, 2026

By Samuel Wise Bangura

A growing internal debate within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has focused attention on the party’s 2022 Constitution, with critics arguing that key provisions restrict participation in leadership contests and concentrate power within a narrow elite.

At the centre of the controversy is Article 6(2)(b) of the SLPP Constitution, which states that the party’s Leader and Presidential Candidate must be a “Distinguished Grand Chief Patron Member” and must be elected by a National Delegates’ Conference. The clause effectively limits eligibility for the party’s highest office to a small category of senior members who hold that status.

Political analysts and party insiders say the provision creates a two-tier membership structure, reserving the possibility of becoming party leader and presidential flagbearer for a select group, while excluding a wider pool of experienced and ambitious members. As currently framed, the constitution renders many long-serving party figures ineligible to contest the leadership, regardless of their grassroots support or political record.

The origins of the clause are widely traced to internal tensions that followed the party’s 2018 flagbearer contest, which was intensely competitive and divisive. That process ultimately produced Julius Maada Bio as flagbearer and later President, but left visible fractures within the party. In response, the 2022 Constitution merged the positions of Party Leader and Presidential Candidate, a move that ensured continuity of leadership and avoided another open contest ahead of the 2023 elections.

Supporters of the arrangement argue that it promoted unity and stability at a critical political moment. However, critics contend that the same mechanism now poses challenges for succession planning beyond the tenure of the current leader, as it leaves future leadership choices in the hands of a limited group.

Following the 2023 elections, expectations grew that the party would revisit the restrictive provisions. President Bio, in his capacity as party leader, appointed a Constitutional Review Committee chaired by David Moinina Sengeh. The committee was reportedly tasked with reviewing aspects of the constitution, including eligibility criteria for party leadership.

That process, however, has yet to produce a publicly available outcome. Conflicting accounts have emerged within party circles, with some suggesting that the committee’s work was rejected by the National Executive Council (NEC), while others maintain that no final report was formally submitted before the committee’s tenure expired. The absence of clarity has left many members uncertain about whether and how reforms will be pursued.

Attention has therefore turned to Article 8(4) of the constitution, which empowers the NEC to propose amendments for endorsement by the National Delegates’ Conference. While this provision provides a procedural route for change, critics argue that it places significant discretion in the hands of the party’s top leadership, raising concerns about transparency and inclusiveness.

The debate has broader implications for party mobilisation and cohesion. Some observers warn that prolonged uncertainty could discourage emerging leaders and dampen enthusiasm among grassroots supporters who feel excluded from meaningful participation in leadership selection. Others caution that failure to address the issue could fuel internal tensions ahead of future electoral cycles.

Within the SLPP, opinions remain divided. Senior figures emphasise the need for orderly transitions and protection against destabilising internal contests, while reform-minded members argue that genuine internal democracy strengthens, rather than weakens, party unity and public credibility.

As the party looks toward the 2028 political horizon, the unresolved questions surrounding constitutional reform and leadership eligibility continue to loom large. Whether the NEC and the National Delegates’ Conference will move to broaden participation or maintain the existing framework is likely to shape not only the party’s internal dynamics, but also perceptions of its commitment to democratic principles it promotes nationally.

M.R. Distilleries Backs Old Wharf Community with Materials, Funds for Road Construction

February 11, 2026

M.R. Distilleries has reaffirmed its commitment to community development by donating building materials and providing financial support to the Old Wharf Community in support of an ongoing road construction project aimed at improving accessibility and safety in the area.

The donation forms part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, which focuses on supporting host communities and contributing to sustainable development initiatives across the country.

Presenting the donation on behalf of M.R. Distilleries, the company’s Public Relations Officer, Mohamed Kamara, said the intervention was motivated by the need to give back to the community in which the company operates. He described the gesture as a reflection of the company’s philosophy that business growth should go hand in hand with social responsibility.

Mohamed Kamara noted that M.R. Distilleries has a history of supporting community-driven projects, stressing that the Old Wharf intervention is part of a broader commitment to improving the living conditions of communities within and beyond its operational environment.

“This support is not a one-off gesture,” he said. “M.R. Distilleries has consistently stood by communities through meaningful development initiatives and Management remains committed to supporting projects that have a direct impact on the lives of ordinary people.”

He urged residents of the Old Wharf Community to ensure that the donated materials and funds are used judiciously to guarantee the successful and timely completion of the road project. He further called on community members to fully cooperate with those implementing the project, noting that collective effort and ownership are key to sustainable development.

The Honourable Member of Parliament for Constituency 114, Dr. Unpha Sorie G. Koroma, commended M.R. Distilleries for what he described as a timely and impactful intervention. He said the company’s support demonstrates the important role corporate institutions can play in complementing Government efforts at the grassroots level.

Dr. Unpha Sorie G. Koroma called on other companies and institutions operating within and outside the Old Wharf Community to emulate the example set by M.R. Distilleries, stressing that development is a shared responsibility.

According to the lawmaker, the road project, once completed, will significantly enhance community development by improving access, mobility and safety for residents.

“This road will play a pivotal role in enhancing development and ensuring safety, especially during emergencies such as fire outbreaks and medical situations,” Dr. Unpha Sorie G. Koroma stated.

He further encouraged residents of Constituency 114 to embrace and protect development projects, noting that Government resources alone are often insufficient to meet the needs of all communities simultaneously. He emphasized that partnerships with responsible corporate entities like M.R. Distilleries are essential for accelerating development at the community level.

Speaking on behalf of residents, the Chief of the Old Wharf Community expressed deep appreciation to M.R. Distilleries for its continued support. He also thanked the Member of Parliament for consistently standing with the people and acknowledged other stakeholders who have contributed to the welfare of the community.

The Chief described the road project as timely and critical, noting that its completion would boost economic activities, ease the movement of people and goods, and open up the community for further development.

The donation ceremony attracted community leaders and stakeholders, who collectively praised the Management of M.R. Distilleries for its strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and community development.

Chief Justice Speaks for ECOWAS Peers, Bags Prestigious Legal Award in Egypt

February 11, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice and Chairman of the ECOWAS Judicial Council, Komba Kamanda, has further strengthened the country’s international judicial standing after a high-profile appearance at the Ninth Cairo High-Level Meeting of the Presidents of African Constitutional Courts, Supreme Courts and Constitutional Councils.

The meeting, held on February 8, 2026, at the St. Regis Hotel, brought together heads of apex courts from across Africa for the ongoing International Conference on Constitutional Justice. The conference is convened under the patronage of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El‑Sisi and serves as a key continental platform for dialogue on constitutional governance and judicial cooperation.

At the conference, Chief Justice Komba Kamanda emerged as the only Chief Justice selected to speak on behalf of his counterparts from the ECOWAS sub-region, representing fifteen member states, including Ghana and Nigeria. His selection was widely seen as a recognition of Sierra Leone’s growing influence within Africa’s judicial community and the reform momentum within its justice sector.

In a widely applauded address on the theme: “Challenges Facing Constitutional Justice in Africa,” Chief Justice Komba Kamanda underscored the central role of supreme and constitutional courts as guardians of the rule of law and protectors of fundamental human rights. He emphasized that constitutional courts must remain firm in upholding the supremacy of the constitution, stressing that no individual or institution stands above it.

“The Supreme Constitutional Courts must continue to maintain the inescapable fact that no man or institution is greater than the constitution,” he said, adding that constitutional fidelity must guide judicial reasoning and decision-making at all times.

He further highlighted judicial independence as a cornerstone of democracy and good governance, noting that an independent judiciary is indispensable for sustaining public confidence, protecting rights and ensuring accountability within the state. According to him, constitutions should be treated as living instruments, continually interpreted in ways that preserve their relevance and vitality in changing social and political contexts.

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda’s international recognition comes against the backdrop of significant judicial reforms undertaken in Sierra Leone within a year of his tenure. Those reforms have contributed to the country’s improved performance in global rule-of-law assessments, including the World Justice Rule of Law Index, where Sierra Leone has been cited for progress in judicial independence, transparency and effectiveness.

While in Egypt, the Chief Justice was also honoured with one of the country’s prestigious legal awards in recognition of his commitment to promoting the rule of law and advancing the administration of justice. The Bar Association Award was received on his behalf by Supreme Court Judge, Honourable Justice Fatmatta Bintu Alhadi. Chief Justice Komba Kamanda was accompanied on the trip by Supreme Court Judge, Honourable Justice Alusine Sesay.

Speaking at the opening session, the President of Egypt’s Supreme Constitutional Court, Counselor Boulis Fahmy, commended African constitutional courts for their pivotal role in promoting social peace, democratic governance and stability across the continent. He also praised President El-Sisi’s continued patronage of the Cairo conference, describing it as a source of momentum and institutional weight.

The Speaker of the Egyptian Parliament, Honourable Justice Hisham Badawy, described the Cairo conference as a fundamental pillar of justice in Africa and a constructive forum for sharing judicial expertise. Egypt’s Minister of Justice, Honourable Adnan Fangari, noted that the meeting holds special priority for strengthening African judicial partnerships at a time of growing global challenges.

The opening ceremony was attended by several leading figures in constitutional justice, including the Presidents of the Constitutional Courts of Cape Verde, Spain, Türkiye and Palestine, alongside other senior judicial leaders from across the world.

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda’s participation and recognition in Cairo further reinforce Sierra Leone’s re-emergence as a respected voice in continental and global judicial discourse.

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