By Emma Black
In a groundbreaking move under the ongoing judicial reforms led by Chief Justice Kumba Kamanda, Hon. Justice Alusine Sesay JSC has acquitted and discharged nineteen (19) inmates from the Pademba Road Correctional Centre. This significant milestone was part of a special Prison Court initiative funded by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
The ruling followed a thorough review of cases involving 115 inmates. This extensive examination covered five (5) cases with reserved judgments, thirty-three (33) cases delayed due to prolonged adjournments at the High Court, and thirty-five (35) similar cases pending in Magistrate’s Courts. The review also included ten (10) inmates serving life sentences, thirty-two (32) convicted at Magistrate’s Courts, ten (10) elderly inmates aged sixty (60) and above, and two (2) physically challenged prisoners.
While assessing the cases of elderly inmates still held at the Male Correctional Facility, Justice Sesay observed that many suffered from serious health conditions, as confirmed by medical reports. Accordingly, he ordered the acquittal and release of five elderly inmates: Abu Bakarr Kamara (66), Rev. James Sapato Fornah (71), Munda Lansana (76), Yusuf Abass (71), and Lahai Shegbena (73).
Additionally, Justice Sesay directed the release of Albert Momoh, Alfred Sullay Momoh, John Junior Kamara, along with eleven (11) other inmates, taking into account the duration of their time served.
During the proceedings, Alfred Sullay Momoh, who is serving a life sentence, pleaded for mercy, my Lord, we ask that justice be tempered with mercy, we have spent half our lives behind bars, have been transformed, and are confident we can contribute positively to national development if released.
Before finalizing their discharge, Justice Sesay reviewed the prison records, confirming their good conduct during incarceration, he admonished the released inmates to avoid future criminal behavior and to strive towards becoming productive citizens.
For inmates charged with illegal possession of drugs, Justice Sesay ruled that bail would not be granted but emphasized that their cases must be fast-tracked by the magistrates, he also urged a similar sense of urgency for cases awaiting judgment.
This progressive ruling demonstrates the judiciary’s strong commitment to reform, offering renewed hope to the correctional system and those whose lives it touches.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday,7th July, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
