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First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone and President of OAFLAD, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, graces the opening ceremony of the Statutory Meeting of the ECOWAS Judicial Council.
The important regional gathering brings together distinguished members of the judiciary and key stakeholders from across the ECOWAS sub-region at the Atlantic Hotel, Lumley Beach, Freetown.
“This landmark event gives renewed hope to the people of Sierra Leone and to West Africa that, under the leadership of my husband as President of Sierra Leone and Chairman of ECOWAS, our region’s judicial system can become one that we are all proud of.’’ She stated.
She further stated that “Choosing our capital to deliberate on the future of West African justice was a fitting and deliberate decision.”
Furthermore, she explained that, over the years, Sierra Leone’s judicial system, under her husband’s leadership, has made significant strides. These include the enactment of the Criminal Procedure Act, which modernized a system that had remained unchanged for over 60 years; the abolition of the death penalty; the repeal of the criminal libel law; the enactment of the new Child Rights Act; and the criminalization of early child marriage, a bill I personally championed in Parliament.
“We have also advanced gender empowerment and inclusion. These transformations are unprecedented in our recent history.” She added.
Finally, Frist Lady Fatima Bio concluded by extending her sincere gratitude to the ECOWAS team, the justice sector institutions, and everyone who contributed to making this landmark occasion a success.
