The Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., held a crucial meeting with the leadership of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) at the Senior Officers’ Mess in Kingtom, to strengthen collaboration in justice delivery, focusing on communication, human rights protection, and the rule of law.

Joining the Minister were state counsels and the Deputy Minister of Justice, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to improve coordination within the justice sector.

Minister Sesay acknowledged the progress made but stressed the need for unity in addressing public concerns. He stated, “When the public criticizes the Sierra Leone Police, it also impacts the judiciary. We must work together to foster effective collaboration to ensure justice for all.”

A key topic, as affirmed during the meeting was the upcoming amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act, which are set to take effect in September 2025.

Minister Sesay expressed his reservations about the current amendment process and highlighted the necessity for enhanced training on case file management, particularly concerning sexual and gender-based violence, asserting the importance of data tracking as a vital tool for rebuilding public trust in the justice system.

In response, Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu welcomed the Minister’s initiatives and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to collaborating closely with the Ministry of Justice.

He noted that the police executive management is ready to address the thematic issues raised by the Minister. “We are ready to form technical teams and support the proposed training programmes for investigators,” IGP Sellu assured.

He further emphasized that all identified thematic areas must be prioritized by the Sierra Leone Police to strengthen the justice delivery system effectively.

The meeting concluded with a group photograph, symbolizing the renewed partnership between the police and the judiciary in their shared mission to enhance justice delivery in the country.