By Philip Koroma in Kenema
Kenema City in the Eastern Region witnessed a historic moment as the Court of Appeal of Sierra Leone held its first ever circuit court sitting since the establishment of the Judiciary.
The landmark event brought together members of the judiciary, traditional authorities, security sector, legal practitioners and local administrators marking a significant step in the country’s ongoing efforts to decentralize the justice system and make justice more accessible to citizens.
In his welcome address, the resident High Court Judge, Hon. Justice Abdul Sheriff expressed gratitude to the Chief Justice and the judiciary for choosing Kenema City as the venue for the historic sitting.
He described the development as a major boost for the people of the South-Eastern Region, adding that it will strengthen public confidence in the justice system.
The Mayor of Kenema City, Thomas Baio also welcomed the justices and members of the judiciary to the city, noting that Kenema being one of the major cities in the region is honored to host such an important judicial event.
According to Mayor Baio, the presence of the Court of Appeal demonstrates government’s commitment to inclusive governance and access to justice for all citizens.
The Paramount Chief of Nongowa chiefdom expressed his appreciation for the initiative. He commended the judiciary for recognizing the needs of rural communities and ensuring that justice administration reached people in the provinces.
P.C Sadique Kapuwa urged residents to continue respecting the rule of law and supporting the work of the courts.
Similarly, the Town Chief of Kenema chief Momoh Ngombulango described the circuit sitting as a proud moment for the city, assuring the judiciary of the community’s cooperation and hospitality during the court’s stay in Kenema.
Providing assurances on security arrangements, the Assistant Inspector General of Police East AIG Francis Meindey said the police have put adequate measures in place to ensure a peaceful and orderly court session.
He emphasized that the Sierra Leone Police remains committed to supporting the judiciary and maintaining law and order throughout the proceedings.
Delivering the keynote address, the chief Justice of the Republic of Sierra Leone Hon. Justice Komba Kamanda emphasized that the initiative forms part of the judiciary’s broader reform agenda aimed at bringing justice closer to the people.
He noted that for many years litigants from the South-East had to travel long distances to Freetown to pursue appeals, a situation that created financial and logistical challenges for many citizens.
Justice Komba Kamanda described the circuit sitting as a milestone in the administration of justice, stating that the judiciary remains committed to ensuring that justice is accessible, affordable and timely.
He explained that the Court of Appeal will hear and determine 34 appeals originating from the region during the session, thereby reducing backlog and delays in the justice delivery process.
The first circuit sitting of the Court of Appeal in the South-Eastern Region is widely regarded as a historic step towards decentralizing the justice system, reducing the burden on litigants and strengthening the rule of law across Sierra Leone.
Local residents and stakeholders have expressed optimism that such initiatives will continue to improve access to justice in the provinces.
The opening ceremony was chaired by the Master and Registrar, Lloyd Hindolo Jusu.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 16th March 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
