Parliament has unanimously approved the appointment of Hon. Justice Fatimata Bintu Alhadi to the Supreme Court, following the adoption of the Eleventh Report of the Committee on Appointments and Public Service. The report was presented on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, by the Committee’s chairman and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma.
Presenting the report, Hon. Nyuma explained that the nominee was thoroughly vetted under oath, with strict procedures guiding the process. He said the committee examined Justice Alhadi’s educational background, professional record, declared assets, tax compliance, and her vision for a sustainable and impactful tenure. He furthered that the Report is the unanimous decision of the Committee on Appointments and Public Service.
Seconding the motion, Opposition Whip Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara from Kambia District praised the nominee’s leadership and experience. He also called attention to the need for improved conditions of service within the judiciary. “Let’s support the Judiciary for a proper service delivery in the judiciary sector,” he said, adding that Sierra Leone had not done justice to the judiciary over the years, particularly in terms of financial allocation. He concluded by stressing the importance of empowering more women in society.
Deputy Speaker Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh reminded Parliament that while the legislature makes laws, their interpretation lies with the judiciary. Referring to Section 138 of the Constitution, he said, “The disbursement of funds in the judiciary must be timely to ensure effective service delivery.” He emphasized that better salaries and allowances for judges are essential to improving welfare and performance, and urged more support for the judiciary to function independently and efficiently.
Chief Whip 2, Hon. Neneh Lebbie, thanked President Julius Maada Bio for the appointment, describing Justice Alhadi as an experienced and competent individual fully capable of serving on the Supreme Court bench.
Acting Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma, expressed confidence in Justice Alhadi’s ability to excel in her new role. He advocated for a self-accounting system within the judiciary to enhance operational efficiency and encouraged the Chief Justice to continue efforts at rebranding the institution. “We want to see 30% representation in the judiciary also, as Parliament has set pace,” he said. He also noted Parliament’s responsibility in ensuring judicial independence through adequate resource allocation.
Concluding the debate, Hon. Nyuma said public criticism often arises when Parliament discusses its own salaries and allowances, yet there is consensus on the need to improve conditions of service in the judiciary. He also pointed out that the judiciary is an independent branch of government and should remain free from political influence, adding that reforms are needed to improve both public perception and the overall effectiveness of the justice system.
