Freetown, Sierra Leone, May 24, 2025 — The Judiciary of Sierra Leone has pushed back strongly against allegations raised by the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI), following the group’s press release on May 23 criticizing the state of the country’s judicial system.
CHRDI had described the judiciary as facing “public disillusionment” and pointed to perceived bias, corruption, and delays in court proceedings. The organization also raised concerns over judicial independence and called for reforms to improve transparency, strengthen accountability, and restore trust. According to CHRDI, “those who better understand its functions often trust it less to act in the public interest.”
The organization emphasized the need for strong accountability mechanisms to tackle allegations of corruption and misconduct, and called on the government to take meaningful steps to rebuild public confidence through greater transparency, community engagement, and public outreach.
“According to the UN Basic Principles on the Independence of the Judiciary, judicial independence is a right of individuals seeking justice, not a privilege of the judiciary; it reflects the judiciary’s mindset,” Abdul M. Fatoma, Chief Executive of the CHRDI.
The Judiciary responded the following day, describing the claims as “false and unsubstantiated” and accusing CHRDI of failing to meet basic standards of accuracy or engage the institution before publication. It said the statement lacked “credible data, independent verification, or engagement with the leadership of the Judiciary for clarification.”
Defending its record, the Judiciary pointed to several reforms implemented in the last 200 days under the leadership of Chief Justice Komba Kamanda. These include the introduction of electronic case management systems, restructuring of the Bailiff Department, establishment of a Sexual Offences Model Court in Bo, expanded court access in remote areas, and consistent training for judicial officers. It emphasized that these efforts were aimed at improving access to justice, speeding up legal processes, and enhancing public trust.
The Judiciary also underscored its constitutional independence and said that allegations of misconduct are handled through the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, not civil society groups or public opinion. It criticized CHRDI for what it described as a failure to recognize ongoing institutional progress, while maintaining that it is open to constructive, evidence-based critique.
“The resilience of our democratic institutions, including the Judiciary, depends on a responsible and informed citizenry,” said Chief Justice Kamanda, who reaffirmed his commitment to a transparent and accountable judiciary.
He added that he will continue to superintend an administration that is transparent and accountable to the people of Sierra Leone.
