By Emma Black

On April 30, 2025, Sierra Leone celebrated a landmark moment in its judicial reform journey with the announcement of new appointments to the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court, to be Approved by His Excellency the President, Brig. (Rtd.) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, under the recommendation of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission (JLSC) with references /AB300/584/01CHofe JusticeAppl /JLSC 02 and 03 and Chief Justice High Court JLSC 01, these appointments honor the nominees’ years of diligent service while responding to the nation’s urgent call for a more efficient and trusted judiciary.

The appointees, comprising distinguished magistrates and seasoned justices, are tasked with addressing Sierra Leone’s persistent challenges in delivering justice. The Court Reporters Union of Sierra Leone has enthusiastically welcomed the new justices, urging them to demonstrate their suitability for these prestigious roles by delivering swift, fair, and transparent judgments as always to restore public confidence in the judicial system.

The High Court, a vital pillar of Sierra Leone’s judiciary, welcomes the following magistrates and legal professionals, recognized for their steadfast commitment in the lower courts and legal practice

Magistrate Mark Ngegba Renowned for his meticulous and impartial rulings, he always correct young lawyer. Ngegba’s elevation reflects his respected tenure in the magistrates’ courts,

Magistrate Isata Susan Sellu Tucker A pioneer in judicial administration, Tucker’s expertise in complex cases positions her to enhance the High Court’s efficiency.

Magistrate Josephine Feimata Hinga Hinga’s appointment underscores her unwavering dedication to grassroots justice and judicial impartiality.

Magistrate Santigie Ibrahim Sorie Bangura: With extensive experience in criminal and civil litigation, Bangura brings rigor and depth to the High Court bench.

Magistrate Sahr Elogima Kekura Kekura’s friend of the media and a proven track record in handling challenging cases with integrity makes him a valuable addition to the court.also deep knowledge of appellate law ensures thorough and balanced judgments.

Ms. Khalila Diana Kamara a distinguished legal practitioner, Kamara’s advocacy and scholarly expertise bolster the High Court’s capacity.

Mr. Andrew Samuel Curtis Jonson Jonson’s practical legal experience strengthens the court’s ability to address its growing caseload.

These justices are expected to tackle the High Court’s expanding docket, encompassing both original and appellate matters, with a renewed emphasis on expediting justice to meet Sierra Leone’s pressing needs.

The Court of Appeal, responsible for reviewing High Court decisions, will benefit from the expertise of three eminent justices, each celebrated for their judicial excellence:

Hon. Justice Alfred Tommy Ganda, a seasoned jurist, Ganda’s deep knowledge of appellate law ensures thorough and balanced judgments.

Hon. Dr. Justice Abou Bhakarr Binneh-Kamara, a legal scholar with expertise in constitutional and criminal law, Dr. Binneh-Kamara’s analytical skills will enrich the court’s deliberations.

Hon. Justice Aiah Simeon Allieu Known for his integrity, Allieu’s elevation highlights his significant contributions to Sierra Leone’s appellate jurisprudence.

Serving on panels typically constituted by three judges, as mandated by Section 128(2) of the 1991 Constitution, these justices are urged to streamline appellate processes to address public demands for faster justice.The Supreme Court, Sierra Leone’s apex judicial authority with final jurisdiction over all legal matters, welcomes a distinguished appointee

Hon. Justice Fatmata Bintu Alhadi elevated from the Court of Appeal, Justice Alhadi brings an exemplary record of judicial excellence and a profound connection her appointment is particularly timely, as Sierra Leone seeks to address public dissatisfaction with the slow pace and perceived miscarriages of justice.

Sierra Leone’s judiciary has long faced criticism for case backlogs, delays, and perceptions of instrumentalized justice, which have undermined public trust. These appointments represent a critical opportunity to address these challenges. President Bio’s approval, following the JLSC’s rigorous selection process and pending parliamentary confirmation under Section 135 of the 1991 Constitution, reflects a commitment to merit-based appointments and judicial independence.

The Court Reporters Union, representing journalists who chronicle judicial proceedings, has hailed the appointments as a testament to the nominees’ hard work. These justices have dedicated years to serving Sierra Leone’s judiciary, and now they have a chance to prove their mettle in these elevated roles, said union president Mr., Conteh we urge them to prioritize swift and transparent justice to rebuild public faith in the system.

These appointments align with broader judicial reforms aimed at modernizing Sierra Leone’s courts, improving infrastructure, and restoring public confidence the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court, as superior courts of record, play a pivotal role in upholding the 1991 Constitution and ensuring justice for all. The new justices, with their diverse expertise and proven dedication, are well-positioned to drive these reforms forward.

The Chief Justice, head of Sierra Leone’s judiciary, praised the appointments as a step toward a more responsive judicial system, these appointees bring experience, integrity, and a commitment to serve the people of Sierra Leone.

As the new justices await parliamentary approval to assume their roles, Sierra Leone’s judiciary stands at a pivotal juncture. The nation looks to these appointees to fulfill their mandate of delivering swift, impartial, and accessible justice, addressing the systemic challenges that have long plagued public perceptions. Their appointments are both a recognition of their past contributions and a call to do more to prove their fitness for these esteemed positions and restore faith in the judiciary.

Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Friday, May 2nd , 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)