By Feima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone ( January 7, 2025) – Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, has pledged to lead the Judiciary of Sierra Leone with fairness and integrity.
Addressing the management and staff for the first time since his appointment last December, Chief Justice Kamanda emphasized his commitment to transforming the Judiciary into an institution that delivers justice without fear or favour.
“My aim is to facelift the Judiciary by ensuring that litigants have justice without fear or favour, and that matters are expeditiously dealt with before all the various Court structures. This can only be achieved through the spirit of collective commitment,” stated Chief Justice Kamanda. He also expressed his determination to change public perception in favour of the institution.
He assured staff members that promotions and other facilities would be granted to those who demonstrate a high level of commitment to their work. He emphasised the importance of punctuality, careful handling of files, and supporting judges and magistrates in achieving effective justice delivery. “I will ensure that all those who are committed to their job are appropriately rewarded for doing so through promotion and other professional facilities. Equally so, there will be no room for those who are collecting salaries and refusing to do their work,” he cautioned.
Senior Judge of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Jamesina King, urged all judges, magistrates, and support staff to align with the Chief Justice’s vision, which encompasses the core values of independence, integrity, impartiality, and accountability.
Hon. Justice Tonia Barnett (JA) added that punctuality and commitment to the job are essential to upholding these values.
The Master and Registrar of the High Court of Sierra Leone advised Court Registrars to follow proper procedures when giving access to court files and Judges’ notes. She also highlighted that searching files should be a paid service, contributing to the institution’s revenue.
Staff members described the meeting as a restoration of hope and motivation, pledging their commitment to work effectively and support the Chief Justice’s vision.
The meeting was preceded by another engagement with all Magistrates across the country, where Chief Justice Kamanda directed that all Magistrates Courts nationwide should commence sittings at 9:00 AM and that Registrars should be in court by 8:30 AM. He emphasised that all judicial officers should treat litigants with dignity and respect, maintaining public trust.