By Emma Black
Sierra Leone has ushered in a transformative phase in its justice sector with the official launch of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024, a pivotal legislation crafted to modernize and reinforce the nation’s legal framework.
The ceremonial unveiling at the High Court in Freetown convened prominent leaders on Tuesday, 16th September, 2025 from the judiciary, executive, and law enforcement, all converging on a shared vision for a more efficient and fair justice system accessible to every citizen. This event underscored the collective resolve to advance reforms that resonate with Sierra Leone’s developmental aspirations.
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, characterized the Act as the fruition of a “20-year journey,” crediting the unwavering dedication of diverse stakeholders who collaborated tirelessly to realize it. He affirmed that the legislation will streamline judicial operations and vowed personal supervision to guarantee its equitable application, ensuring widespread benefits for all Sierra Leoneans.
Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, hailed the launch as “a historic day” for the country, emphasizing the Sierra Leone Police’s integral role in the justice ecosystem. He disclosed that officers across the nation have completed comprehensive training on the Act’s provisions, empowering investigators and prosecutors with essential tools to manage cases adeptly under the updated system.
Chief Justice Komba Kamanda lauded the Act for embedding human rights principles and synchronizing Sierra Leone’s legal procedures with global benchmarks. Acknowledging the obsolescence of the prior framework, he expressed optimism that this reform will herald a more equitable and transparent judicial era. The Chief Justice called for unified stakeholder efforts to drive its effective rollout nationwide.
The proceedings culminated in a stirring performance by the Sierra Leone Police Band, symbolizing the dawn of a dynamic transformation in the nation’s justice landscape.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 22nd September, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
