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The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has raised urgent concerns over worsening overcrowding in the country’s correctional centres, warning that the situation threatens human rights protections and undermines the rule of law.
The findings were presented in the Commission’s new nationwide assessment, Human Rights Behind Bars, launched at J.C. Hall in Freetown. Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the report followed a monitoring exercise across 20 correctional facilities in all five regions between 2 and 24 September 2025.
According to the report, overcrowding remains the most critical challenge, with correctional facilities accommodating far more inmates than they were designed to hold.
The Commission said inadequate separation and classification of prisoners, prolonged trial periods, and delays in indictment have worsened congestion. It also noted that many inmates remain in custody simply because they are unable to meet bail or fine conditions.
“Many of our correctional centres are struggling with overcrowding, sanitation constraints, and logistical shortages. The issues affect not only the welfare of inmates but also the safety and effectiveness of our officers,” said Lamin Bangura, Director of Policy, Planning, and Legal Services at the Sierra Leone Correctional Service.
The report further pointed to shortages of food, toiletries, and vocational training opportunities, with female inmates outside Freetown and Kailahun particularly affected by inadequate facilities and support.
UNDP’s Senior Rule of Law and Human Rights Officer, Alie B. Sesay, praised the Commission for addressing what he described as a “necessary but difficult” national issue. “By shedding light on the realities within correctional facilities, the HRCSL helps us confront issues that are often hidden, sensitive, and uncomfortable, but essential to justice and human rights,” he said.
Vice Chairperson of HRCSL, Victor Idrissa Lansana Esq., called for prompt government action, stressing the national importance of the report’s findings. “This report brings out concerns that should matter to every Sierra Leonean. That is why the government must take its findings and recommendations very seriously,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the government, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, David Fortune, acknowledged the need for urgent reforms and reaffirmed state commitment to improving inmate welfare and easing congestion in correctional centres. “No nation can claim progress if its correctional centres remain behind,” he said.
The report adds to ongoing national discussions about challenges within Sierra Leone’s justice system and highlights the need for structural reforms to protect the rights and dignity of inmates.
