By Emma Black

Sometime January, 2025 Sierra Leone’s chief Justice, His lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, addressed the Judiciary’s staff for the first time since his appointment in December 2024, promising to lead with fairness and transform the institution. Speaking at the Main Law Courts Building in Freetown, he outlined his vision to enhance justice delivery and restore public trust.

I come with a clean heart to lead everyone fairly, Chief Justice Kamanda declared, my goal is to uplift the Judiciary, ensuring litigants receive justice without fear or favor and cases are handled quickly across all courts, he emphasized collective commitment, urging staff to be punctual, handle files carefully, and support judges and magistrates for effective justice delivery.

The Chief Justice promised promotions and benefits for dedicated workers but warned against inaction, those who collect salaries without working will find no place here,” he cautioned, he also directed staff to release accused persons meeting bail conditions promptly, ensuring fairness.

Court of Appeal Judge Hon. Justice Jamesina King urged staff to align with the Chief Justice’s vision, rooted in independence, integrity, and accountability. Hon. Justice Tonia Barnett emphasized punctuality and adherence to best practices as key to the Judiciary’s values.

The Master and Registrar highlighted proper file access procedures, noting that search fees generate vital revenue. Staff welcomed the address, expressing renewed hope and pledging support for the Chief Justice’s reforms.

In a prior meeting with magistrates, Chief Justice Kamanda mandated that Magistrate Courts start sittings at 9:00 AM, with registrars present by 8:30 AM. He urged judicial officers to treat litigants respectfully, avoiding actions that undermine public trust.

Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Friday, May 5th, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)