SLPP and APC Unite Against Hate Speech, Call for Peace and Unity

June 5, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a rare show of unity, Sierra Leone’s two major political parties, the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the All People’s Congress (APC) on Monday June 3, 2024, jointly condemned the rise in hate speech and called for peace and unity in the nation.

The call for unity was formalized in a statement signed by Umaru Napoleon Koroma, National Secretary of the SLPP and Lansana Dumbuya, National Secretary General of the APC. That announcement underscores both parties’ commitment to the Agreement for National Unity, an initiative aimed at fostering a more collaborative and respectful political environment.

Key Points of the Agreement for National Unity:

-Peaceful Resolution of Political Differences: Both parties emphasize resolving conflicts without resorting to hostility.
-Strengthening Democratic Institutions: A collective effort to bolster the structures that support democracy in Sierra Leone.
-Regular Cross-Party Dialogue: Resuming consistent and constructive conversations between the parties.
-National Unity: Bridging divides and promoting cohesion among all Sierra Leoneans.
-Commitment to Responsible Free Speech

The SLPP and APC reaffirmed their dedication to free speech and a free press, noting that those rights come with the responsibility to avoid inciting violence or spreading hatred. They assert that:

– Free speech should not be a tool for inciting violence.
– Individuals should not face disparagement based on ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, or political affiliation.
– Hatred against any ethnic or religious group must be condemned.
– Denouncing Hate Speech

The parties expressed deep concern over recent instances of hate speech by some political commentators within Sierra Leone and its diaspora. They called on all Sierra Leoneans to reject such rhetoric, emphasizing that it has no place in the nation’s political discourse.

The SLPP and APC support the investigation and prosecution of those who incite violence, while ensuring that such actions adhere to legal and human rights standards. Protecting the rights of all members and supporters during these proceedings is paramount.

The joint statement also called on international partners to support Sierra Leone’s efforts to ensure justice is served fairly and thoroughly, stressing the importance of maintaining a just and peaceful society.

With the Electoral Review Committee’s final report deadline approaching, both parties anticipate intensified political dialogue. They urged all Sierra Leoneans to engage respectfully, avoiding personal attacks and threats of violence.

“Hate speech has no place in our country, and those who spread it have no place in our political parties,” the statement declared.

Both the SLPP and APC are committed to ongoing efforts to monitor and address hate speech and violence. They will collaborate with civil society organizations and international partners to maintain a safe and respectful political environment.

In closing, the SLPP and APC reaffirmed their dedication to building a peaceful and respectful Sierra Leone. “Together, let us create a future where political discourse is conducted with respect and our democratic values are upheld,” they urged.

This unprecedented joint effort marks a significant step towards fostering a more harmonious political climate in Sierra Leone.

NP (SL) New CEO & Team Pay Courtesy Visit to Petroleum Regulatory Agency Boss

June 5, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NP Sierra Leone Limited, Saidu Mansaray, together with his team of Managers on Monday, June 3, 2024, paid a courtesy call to the Executive Chairman of the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), Dr. Brima M. Baluwa Koroma. The purpose of the visit was to establish a strong and collaborative relationship between NP (SL) Limited and the regulatory agency.

During the meeting, CEO Saidu Mansaray expressed gratitude for the crucial role played by the PRA in regulating the petroleum industry. He reiterated NP’s commitment to operating at the highest standards and expressed a keen interest in working with the PRA to enhance the smooth distribution of petroleum products across the country.

In response, Executive Chairman, Brima M. Baluwa Koroma, congratulated Saidu Mansaray on his new appointment and expressed the Agency’s readiness to collaborate with the new leadership team. He highlighted NP’s status as the largest fuel importer in Sierra Leone and praised the company for its significant contributions to the sector’s growth. He revealed that the Agency’s revenue had grown from 458 billion to 1.2 trillion over the past five years, emphasizing the importance of strong partnerships in achieving common objectives.

Furthermore, Dr. Baluwa Koroma announced plans for a national workshop aimed at providing guidance to Dealers/Resellers in collectively regulating the industry. He also addressed the issue of unacceptable behavior among some pump attendants, emphasizing the need for immediate rectification.

The courtesy visit marked a significant milestone in the relationship between NP Sierra Leone Limited and the Petroleum Regulatory Agency. Both parties affirmed their commitment to fostering strong partnerships, compliance and sustainable growth within the industry. Additionally, they agreed to revamp the OMC Awards night as a positive step towards enhancing their mutually beneficial partnership.

Overall, the meeting heralded a new era of cooperation between NP and the PRA, focused on advancing the petroleum industry in Sierra Leone.

Orange SL, Orange Middle East and Africa Launch Engage for Change Program

June 5, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a Press Release dated 5^th June, 2024, Orange Sierra Leone and Orange Middle East and Africa disclosed that they are strengthening their social and environmental commitment by involving their employees through the Engage for Change Program.

They further stated that for several years now, Orange Sierra Leone (OSL) and Orange Middle East and Africa (OMEA) have been taking concrete action to reduce their environmental impact. They added that today, it is employees who are taking over by getting directly involved in various ecological initiatives on International Environment Day, as part of the new Orange Engage for Change program.

OSL and OMEA and its employees reaffirm their ongoing commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by launching the Orange Engage for Change platform. That initiative, it was underscored, aims to have a positive impact on society and the environment, while strengthening team cohesion.

In terms of a collective commitment for a lasting impact it was stated that Climatic events, societal upheavals and changing work patterns have created a pressing need for reference points and meaning among citizens, and their employees are no exception.

OSL and OMEA said they firmly believe that employee engagement is an essential key to meeting those challenges disclosing how the Orange Engage for Change program enables each employee to devote three working days a year to projects with a societal impact.

With regards to a platform to mobilize and inspire it was highlighted that the Orange Engage for Change is a web platform that provides a space for discovering, sharing and getting involved in societal projects.

According to them, it is accessible to all Orange Group employees to volunteer and to the general public for a better understanding of their commitments. The entities also informed how it is multi-country initiative that draws on the programs of the Orange Foundation and the Orange Digital Centers network, offering a structured framework, a solid infrastructure and varied opportunities to support and develop volunteer actions with their committed employees.

With reference to Concrete Actions for Real Impact they said it relates to a platform that offers environmental and social initiatives, solidly backed by the active commitment of the telecommunications entities employees. It was also mentioned that throughout the day on June 5, a number of local initiatives are being organized across the region to demonstrate the concrete impact of this platform.

According to the Press Release, in Mali, for example, a team of 200 Orange employee volunteers is taking part in the reforestation of an urban park dedicated to children by planting 1,000 trees, while in Côte d’Ivoire, 43 kilometers from Abidjan, 30 hectares in the Azaguié forest will be reforested thanks to 150 employees.

It was also make known that in 2023, OSL planted 3,000 trees at the Mortomeh Mudslide site at Hill Station thanks to participation of 150 employees and this year, OSL embarked on a beach cleaning exercise in partnership with the International Organization for Migration and the National Tourist Board. Those examples symbolize Orange’s commitment to supporting local projects that strengthen social ties and protect the environment.

Jerome Hénique, CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa stated that the launch of Orange Engage for Change symbolizes their deep commitment to corporate social responsibility. The CEO pointed out that by empowering their employees to get directly involved in positive impact projects, they are contributing to the sustainable development of communities in the countries where they operate.”

Asma Ennalfer, Executive Director of CSR and Communications at Orange Middle East and Africa and Secretary General of the Orange Digital Center Foundation added that the platform is a powerful tool for uniting their teams around shared values.

According to the Executive Director every initiative, every action taken by their employees demonstrates their collective ability to bring about significant change adding how they are proud to see that commitment come to fruition and to witness the positive impact it generates.

Sekou Amadou Bah, CEO of Orange Sierra Leone commented that through that platform, together, they have the power to collectively transform society & make a difference through their CSR approach by connecting with local communities, training & outreach to create a positive impact in the daily lives of the people of Sierra Leone.

With Orange Engage for Change, it was stated, Orange gets closer to people by investing in and actively supporting local initiatives in favor of inclusion and the environment.

To find out more about the Orange Engage for Change platform and the social projects deployed by the Orange Group, log on to engageforchange.orange.com. Discover the testimonials of beneficiaries and employees.

World Milk Day… Cowbell Embarks on Massive Milk Education & Donates 50 Cartons to Aberdeen Women’s Centre

June 5, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As part of efforts to raise awareness about the importance and benefits of milk consumption in the country, Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd, a food distribution company that operates as an agent for Promasidor, a leading supplier of quality food products to more than 30 African countries, including Sierra Leone, joined the world on Friday, May 31, and Saturday, June 1, 2024, to commemorate World Milk Day. This international day, established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, recognizes the importance of milk as a global food and has been observed on June 1 every year since 2001.

During this year’s commemoration, the company embarked on a massive milk education campaign. A motorcade float parade commenced on May 31, 2024, from Cline Town to Jui for the East End of Freetown, and continued on June 1, 2024, from Cline Town to Funkia Market for the Western Area Urban. Additionally, the company sampled Cowbell products, giving actual and potential consumers the opportunity to enjoy good nutrition through Cowbell milk at key points during the motorcade float parade. This was executed by offering dry samples of Cowbell powdered milk to commuters.

In addition to the educational campaign, the company donated 50 cartons of Cowbell Milk to the Aberdeen Women’s Centre in Aberdeen to support malnutrition efforts in Sierra Leone.

Presenting the donation to the Aberdeen Women’s Centre, the Country Manager of Premium Divine Trading Ltd, Kenneth Konuah, highlighted that his company has been supporting the work of the Aberdeen Women’s Centre for some time now, adding that in celebration of this year’s World Milk Day, observed annually on June 1st to recognize the importance of milk as a global, affordable and nutritious food, Premium Divine Trading Ltd aimed to increase awareness about the benefits of milk consumption for all.

As part of their massive milk education campaign, he disclosed that the company deemed it fit to donate 50 cartons of Cowbell milk to the facility to support pregnant women, lactating mothers and children.

Kenneth Konuah expressed appreciation for the tremendous work being done by the Management and Staff of the Aberdeen Women’s Centre and promised continuous support for the facility.

He also noted that Premium Divine Trading Ltd, as a responsible company, undertook the exercise to commemorate World Milk Day by raising awareness of the importance and benefits of milk within the Freetown Municipality.

During this process, they educated thousands of commuters about the significance of consuming Cowbell milk, which is a rich source of protein, calcium, and vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K, collectively known as Vitarich.

Receiving the donation, the Country Director, Aberdeen Women’s Centre Ruth Milliken expressed gratitude to Premium Divine Trading Ltd for the generous contribution, which she described as crucial for the facility.

She mentioned that the donated cartons of milk will be immensely beneficial, particularly for their busy maternity ward, and will greatly support pregnant women, lactating mothers and children.

The Country Director assured that the donation will be used for its intended purpose, benefiting those whom it is meant to support.

On his part, Head of Sales of Premium Divine Trading Limited, Kwaku Ampadu Afoani, highlighted that the massive milk campaign is part of their efforts to promote the consumption of quality food products in the country.

He explained that Cowbell products come in various sizes, including 14g sachets, 20g sachets, 360g sachets and 400g tins for milk. Additionally, Cowbell food drink packages, such as Coffee, Strawberry, Coconut, Choco-Malt and Cowbell Mocha, are available in 40g sizes. These products are produced in Ghana by Promasidor Ghana Limited and exported to several West African countries, including Sierra Leone, where Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd serves as the sole distributor.

Kwaku Ampadu Afoani added that Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd also distributes and markets Onga, Miksi Chocolate and coffee drinks, Kremela, and Yumvita the latter being an infant cereal with milk containing wheat, rice and maize.

He emphasized that the company guarantees the availability of quality milk for everyone, aiming to discourage the use of unsafe milk products on the market.

He concluded by encouraging everyone to choose the company’s products, especially Cowbell Milk, which he assured, is of high quality and provides essential nutrients for the body.

One of the beneficiaries, Ibrahim Sesay, a driver who benefited from the milk education and sampling, commended Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd for their commendable effort in reaching out to communities with the milk education. He described the initiative as vital for the development and growth of all.

Ibrahim Sesay praised Cowbell Coffee and Milk for their rich nutrient content, essential for proper growth.

He also encouraged everyone to purchase products from Premium Divine Trading Company Ltd, assuring that they would not regret their choice, given the high quality and nutritional value of their products.

President Bio Emphasizes Partnership Between Sierra Leone & Korea at the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit

June 5, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 Bio expressed optimism about the collaboration between Sierra Leone and Korea as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. During the inaugural 2024 Korea-Africa Summit, President Bio highlighted the importance of shared growth, sustainability and solidarity in the partnership between the two nations.

Under the theme “The Future We Make Together: Shared Growth, Sustainability and Solidarity,” President Bio reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to working closely with Korea and other African nations to promote peace and security. Leveraging their joint membership in the UN Security Council, President Bio emphasized the role of the Council in maintaining international peace and security amidst growing conflicts and security threats worldwide.

Earlier, on June 3, 2024, President Bio delivered a Presidential Lecture at Yonsei University in Seoul on enhancing the educational system and governance in Sierra Leone. He praised the University for its dedication to education that transcends boundaries and emphasized the pivotal role of education in national development and global sustainability.

President Bio highlighted Sierra Leone’s investments in education and human capital development, as well as the progress made in governance reforms since taking office in 2018. He discussed the country’s commitment to democratic principles, human rights, and good governance, noting its improved ranking in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.

“Quality education and human capital development are central to Sierra Leone’s national development aspirations and global sustainable development,” President Bio stated. He emphasized the critical role of education in lifting countries like Sierra Leone from conflict, poverty, and underdevelopment, noting the significant investment of 22% of the national budget in the education sector over the past six years.

During his visit, President Bio witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health and Sahmyook Health University in Korea, aimed at enhancing cooperation in various areas including research and workforce development programs.

“Sierra Leone looks forward to leveraging its relationship with the Republic of Korea and their joint Membership in the Non-Permanent Category of the UN Security Council to promote peace and security,” he mentioned.

He also spoke about international peace and security, adding that one key framework for that would be the United Nations Security Council, of which Sierra Leone had been a Non-Permanent Member since January 2024.

“At a time when conflicts, wars and terrorist activities are increasing across the world, there is no better time than now to draw from our commonalities and the international peace architecture to prevent and respond to conflicts when they occur for a collective future of ‘Shared Growth, Sustainability and Solidarity’.

“Sierra Leone, with unwavering determination, remains committed during its tenure to ensure that the Security Council fulfils its paramount responsibility in maintaining International Peace and Security. With escalating peace and security threats, the urgency of expediting the reform of the UN Security Council becomes even more pronounced,” he stated.

President Bio’s engagements at Yonsei University and the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit underscore Sierra Leone’s dedication to global cooperation, sustainable development, and fostering partnerships for a better future.

In a preceding meeting on May 31, President Bio and South Korean President, Yoon Suk Yeol, discussed enhancing trade and investment between their countries. They signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the Trade and Investment Promotion Framework (TIPF) and explored cooperation in education, public health and food security.

Accompanied by the First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, they were warmly welcomed by Yonsei University President, Dong-Sup Yoon. He expressed Sierra Leone’s eagerness to deepen its relationship with the University, particularly in light of Yonsei’s 139-year history of contributing to global human capital development.

Their visit came ahead of the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit in Ilsan, themed: “The Future We Make Together: Shared Growth, Sustainability, and Solidarity.”

The 2024 Korea-Africa Summit, a landmark event, featured African Heads of State and international organization leaders. President Bio’s engagements during the visit reflect Sierra Leone’s dedication to fostering global partnerships and sustainable development.

Charles Champion Conteh Addresses Key Issues in Northeast Sierra Leone

June 3, 2024

By Esther Wright

Charles Champion Conteh, Strategic Communications Officer at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, engaged with community and local leaders in the Northeast region to discuss peace, development and national unity. The meeting, held on Thursday, May 30, 2024, in the Mena Gbanti Section courtroom, Makeni, was part of ongoing efforts to foster dialogue and strengthen community ties in Sierra Leone.

Charles Conteh, known for his consistent outreach efforts, highlighted his engagement with various societal stakeholders, including law enforcement officers, youth organizations, and market women. He emphasized the importance of addressing critical questions and broadening the scope of conversations about national unity.

The session, initiated by the Acting Section Chief of Mena Gbanti, Mohamed Rado, began with introductions and a series of questions aimed at understanding the purpose of Conteh’s visit. Conteh congratulated Rado and his Executive team on their recent electoral victory, reassuring them of the Government’s commitment to support and elevate their roles as local and traditional leaders. He acknowledged their crucial role in uniting the society through the powers granted by the Local Council’s Act.

During the hour-long meeting, Conteh discussed the progress made by the Government and the challenges that have been addressed. He stressed the significance of peace in post-war Sierra Leone, noting that economic growth and investment opportunities hinge on a stable and peaceful environment. He reminded the leaders of the devastating 11-year civil war that left the nation vulnerable, while other countries advanced.

In his concluding remarks, Charles Conteh underscored the importance of maintaining peace for societal progress. He addressed concerns about the much-discussed “Tripartite Committee,” affirming that there will be no rerun of the recently concluded presidential elections and confirmed that the next presidential election will be held in 2028.

The engagement with local and traditional leaders marks a continued effort by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education to promote peace and national cohesion across Sierra Leone.

Journalist Alie Badara Calls for Government Protection Amid Police Corruption Allegations

June 3, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

Alie Badara, an investigative journalist based in Bo, Southern Sierra Leone, has called for Government protection following his exposé on alleged police corruption related to the synthetic drug known as KUSH. He has been closely monitoring the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) in Bo, in their efforts to combat the illegal drug trade, uncovering what he describes as a disturbing pattern of dubious activities.

In his investigation, Badara noted significant discrepancies between the quantities of drugs seized, including KUSH and other substances like Tramadol, and the number of suspects held in police custody. He suspects that some of the seized drugs are being illicitly sold by the Exhibit Officer responsible for handling those substances.

“Rumors are circulating that the Exhibit Officer is profiting from the sale of confiscated drugs,” Alie Badara stated. “This undermines the entire operation against illegal drug use and distribution.”

His revelations have not gone unnoticed. He has faced considerable backlash, especially after making several Facebook posts highlighting what he sees as police excesses and pretense in the fight against KUSH. This online activity has allegedly led to threats against him, further heightening his concerns for personal safety.

On May 28, 2024, at approximately at 13:46, he received threatening calls from an individual identified as Morles. Using multiple unregistered SIM cards, Morles verbally abused Badara’s mother and threatened to burn down his house that night.

In response to those threats, Badara reported the incident to the Bo East Police Division. Despite knowing the identities of those behind the threats, he remains undeterred in his quest for accountability. He has called on the Anti-Corruption Commission to urgently investigate the allegations against the SLP, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address that corruption.

“I will not be intimidated into silence,” Alie Badara declared. “I will continue to publish my findings until there is action.”

For now, the journalist stands firm in his commitment to exposing the truth, hoping his calls for government intervention will not go unheard.

Secure Your Biometric ID Cards to Gain Access to Basic Services

June 3, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leoneans are encouraged to seize the chance to obtain their Biometric ID Cards, a crucial initiative for enhancing national security and streamlining transactions. The distribution of these cards, mandatory for all residents, has a final deadline of March 31, 2024. This represents a vital step in the country’s efforts to adopt advanced security measures and facilitate daily activities.

The launch of these Securitized and Multi-purpose Biometric Identity Cards, equipped with an advanced ID Verification System, signifies a significant leap forward in improving citizen safety and transaction efficiency throughout Sierra Leone.

“The core objective of this initiative is dual: to enhance citizen safety and simplify local transactions,” states the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA). These Biometric ID cards are now essential at checkpoints nationwide, prioritizing individual rights while providing access to essential services. Beyond their primary function, these cards symbolize a future brimming with opportunities.

To ease the application process, citizens are urged to visit designated NCRA Offices and Centers across the country. These locations include:

NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown
NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown
NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Roundabout)
NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)
NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarters in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

Additionally, to accommodate organizations and institutions, the NCRA has introduced corporate services tailored for entities such as Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), Foreign Missions, and Financial Institutions.

For more information on these services, interested parties can contact the NCRA via phone at +232-33-433-333 / +232-30-500-000 / +232-60-000 / +232-78-221-812 or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

The introduction of biometric national identity cards highlights the Government’s dedication to creating a safer, more efficient, and accessible environment for all Sierra Leoneans. These cards empower individuals and organizations to flourish in a secure setting. Citizens are encouraged to act swiftly and secure their Biometric ID Cards, marking a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s progress.

7 Lebanese Nationals Appear in Court on Various Charges

June 3, 2024

By Esther Wright

In a high-profile case, seven Lebanese businessmen, including 50-year-old Ali Jaffal, Abdul Jaffal, Abdallah Jaffal, Mohamed Jaffal, Abbas Antar, Naif Antar and Hassan Jaffal, appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Court No. 2 in Freetown. The defendants are facing seven charges, ranging from wounding and assault occasioning actual bodily harm to affray, throwing missiles and disorderly conduct.

The charges stem from an incident on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the Young Sports Club (YSC) facility on Wilkinson Road in Freetown. According to the particulars of the offense, the first, second, third, and seventh accused maliciously wounded Adam Hamdan. Additionally, the seventh accused is charged with wounding Mohamed Aroune on the same date and location.

Counts three and four further allege that the first, second, third, and seventh accused caused actual bodily harm to Adam Hamdan and Mohamed Aroune. Count five charges all accused with fighting with the intent to incite public fear, while count six alleges they threw stones and sticks, also to instill fear. The final count accuses them of disorderly conduct in a public place.
The accused pleaded not guilty to all charges.
State Prosecutor, Yusif Isaac Sesay, led the proceedings, calling Sergeant 1079 N’yilla Lassayo as the second prosecution witness. Sergeant Lassayo, attached to the Foreign National Unit at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters in Freetown, detailed the investigation process. She received the case files from the Lumley Police Station on April 6, 2024, and conducted interviews with the accused, recording their statements in English after they were made in Krio.

These statements were read back to the accused, who affirmed their accuracy with their thumbprints.
The court heard that the statements of the accused were duly recorded, produced, and tendered as exhibits in the court records, marked from Exhibit A1-6 to Exhibit H1-2.
Defense counsels Tuma Jabbie and J.A.M.M Amara requested a short adjournment to cross-examine the witness. Magistrate Bangura granted the request and adjourned the case to June 14, 2024.

Four-Day Prison Court Exercise to Fast-Track Delayed Cases

June 3, 2024

By Esther Wright

The Judiciary of Sierra Leone has commenced a four-day Prison Court exercise to fast-track delayed cases in the criminal justice system. This initiative aims to address legal delays for inmates awaiting trial. Judges will review cases at various correctional centers to identify and resolve reasons for delays, ensuring progress in hearings.

They will also assess whether magistrates have exceeded their sentencing powers and examine cases of inmates detained beyond their maximum sentences, those facing prolonged adjournments, and those awaiting trial without indictments. The initiative is expected to address over 800 cases, reducing the criminal justice backlog and ensuring timely justice.

In a workshop on 5th Generation Justice Sector Reform Strategy
Technical staff from various justice sector institutions gathered for a two-day workshop to develop Sierra Leone’s 5th Generation Justice Sector Reform Strategy. Convened by the Attorney General’s Office through the Justice Sector Coordination Office (JSCO), the strategy aims to increase access to justice, improve case management, expedite justice, strengthen human rights, and enhance service delivery. The strategy will follow a people-centered approach, emphasizing human rights, gender sensitivity, and child-friendly justice.

In terms of Consultations on New Mediation Law Underway the Law Reform Commission is conducting nationwide consultations to develop a Mediation Law for Sierra Leone. The proposed Bill will facilitate civil and commercial dispute resolution through mediation, establish mediation centers across the country, and regulate mediation proceedings. This initiative aims to improve access to justice, especially in rural areas, expedite justice delivery, and reduce the court system’s case burden.

In another development, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, along with his team, appeared before the Parliamentary Legislative Committee to discuss and clarify the revised Criminal Process Bill. The updated Criminal Procedure Act is expected to have a significant positive impact on Sierra Leone’s criminal justice system.

It must be noted that the Office of the Attorney General and the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs held discussions to review the Child Rights Act, reform the juvenile justice system, coordinate responses to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) crimes, and strengthen access to justice for women. These discussions aim to enhance the legal framework protecting children and women in Sierra Leone.

The International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea issued an advisory opinion affirming that under Article 202 of the Convention, States Parties are obligated to assist developing states, particularly vulnerable ones, in addressing marine pollution from anthropogenic GHG emissions. Sierra Leone, represented by Deputy Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay and a team of international law experts, participated in the proceedings. Attorney General Mohamed Lamin Tarawally praised the Tribunal’s interpretation of international law regarding state obligations for marine environmental damage.