By Fatima Kpaka
The American Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Ambassador Bryan Hunt, has assured the leadership of the Judiciary of Sierra Leone of the United States Government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and supporting effective justice delivery throughout the country.
During his visit to the Chambers of the Chief Justice, Ambassador Hunt stated that his visit was more than just a courtesy call but also aimed at understanding the vision of the institution under the new Chief Justice’s leadership. He expressed interest in how the US could support the Judiciary to enhance its operations.
Welcoming the Ambassador and his team, Hon. Chief Justice Komba Kamanda highlighted his determination to uphold the Constitution of Sierra Leone, the rule of law, and to adjudicate cases to promote national peace, security, and development. He emphasized the importance of an independent, free, fair, accountable, and transparent justice delivery system and outlined his strategic activities to increase public trust and change perceptions about the Judiciary.
“I am highly committed to ensuring that a workable solution is reached to address the much contentious issue of bail which I consider to be a human right issue,” Chief Justice Kamanda stated. He mentioned additional directives given to all judicial officers and support staff on handling bail to ensure proper accountability.
The Chief Justice acknowledged the U.S government’s support over the years, particularly the Bail and Sentencing Project, which resulted in the Bail Regulations of 2018 and the Sentencing Guidelines now embedded in the Criminal Procedure Act 2024. These legal reforms have helped address overcrowding in correctional centers and reduced government expenditure on inmates. He stressed the need for a review of outdated laws, improved access to justice through infrastructural development, and advanced technology to enhance justice delivery.
Supreme Court Judge, Hon. Justice Alusine Sesay, noted the US government’s support in updating laws, including Cyber Law, Bail and Sentencing Policy, and Anti-Human Trafficking Laws. He pledged the Judiciary’s commitment to expeditious justice delivery. Court of Appeal Judge, Hon. Justice Bintu Alhadi, emphasized the need for video links for dangerous prisoners, recording equipment, a well-furnished library, and a solar system to boost the electricity supply for the Judiciary.
Ambassador Hunt assured that while decisions regarding foreign assistance are pending due to an upcoming new government, the US government would consider modernization of the Judiciary. This includes training for judicial personnel and the possibility of video conferencing for dangerous prisoners. He mentioned that the World Bank is looking at programs to sponsor infrastructural projects and assured support with IT equipment, training programs, and legislative modernization.