The Judiciary of Sierra Leone has formally commenced the 2026/2027 Judicial Year with a special Muslim prayer and thanksgiving service at the Freetown Central Mosque, attended by Chief Justice Justice Komba Kamanda, judges, judicial officers and staff.

The service provided an opportunity to thank Almighty God for the successful completion of the previous Judicial Year and seek divine guidance, wisdom and protection for the year ahead.

Welcoming the Judiciary, Alhaji Mohamed Barrie expressed appreciation for choosing the Central Mosque and prayed for continued blessings and guidance for the Chief Justice, judges and staff. He described the occasion as a meaningful connection between faith, justice and national development.

In his sermon, Assistant Chief Imam Sheikh Abdulia Bah described the Judiciary as a critical institution in promoting justice, peace and national stability. He urged judges and judicial officers to uphold fairness, honesty, compassion and accountability, drawing inspiration from the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad. He also reminded those in positions of authority that they will ultimately be accountable for how they discharge their responsibilities.

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda thanked the mosque administration and congregation for their hospitality, explaining that the annual prayer service is an important tradition marking the beginning of a new Judicial Year. He stressed that administering justice requires wisdom, humility and divine direction, while reaffirming the Judiciary’s commitment to fair, effective and impartial justice.

The Chief Justice said the Judiciary must continue seeking God’s guidance in carrying out its constitutional responsibilities and described the new Judicial Year as an opportunity to renew its commitment to serving the people.

Chief Imam Sheikh Ramanda Bah commended Chief Justice Kamanda’s leadership and highlighted ongoing judicial reforms, particularly efforts to expand access to justice and bring justice closer to poor and vulnerable citizens. He also praised efforts to strengthen the implementation and enforcement of the Bail Regulations and the construction and development of courts in several district headquarters.

The Chief Imam expressed confidence in the Chief Justice’s leadership, prayed for his continued good health and longevity, and encouraged him to continue serving Sierra Leone with dedication and integrity.

The prayer service marked a solemn beginning to the 2026/2027 Judicial Year, reinforcing the Judiciary’s commitment to justice, fairness, integrity, the rule of law and public service, while highlighting its responsibility to protect citizens’ rights and administer justice without fear or favour.