Post a comment
The Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, Komba Kamanda, presided over the swearing-in ceremony of two newly appointed Judges of the Court of Appeal, seven High Court Judges, and nineteen Notaries Public at the Main Law Courts Building in Freetown.
The ceremony, held on May 13, followed the recent Parliamentary approval of all 11 appointees, marking a vital step in advancing the Chief Justice’s vision for improved access to justice across Sierra Leone.
In her welcome address, Executive Secretary of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission (JLSC), Emilda Stronge, stressed on the importance of the event in fulfilling the judiciary’s commitment to justice.
Addressing the newly sworn-in judges, Chief Justice Kamanda described the judiciary as a “bastion of justice, fairness, and integrity.” He expressed optimism that the new appointments would bolster the number of judges and enhance ongoing efforts to ensure timely justice delivery throughout the country.
Recognising the need for justice in remote areas, he announced plans to post some judges to regions lacking resident High Court Judges, thereby facilitating access to justice in underserved communities. “You are heartily welcome to the Bench,” he assured the new judges, pledging support from himself and the entire judiciary.
To the newly appointed Court of Appeal Judges, the Chief Justice highlighted their elevation as a testament to their integrity, commitment, and dedication. “This is no mean achievement,” he stated, affirming the judiciary’s need for trustworthy leaders to restore public confidence.
Justice Alfred T. Ganda, speaking on behalf of the new Court of Appeal Judges, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them by the Chief Justice and the JLSC. He remarked, “I see the appointment not as a privilege but a sense of responsibility to serve with utmost respect for the rule of law, the constitution, and the people of this country.” He acknowledged the Chief Justice’s guidance as a source of inspiration for excellence and integrity within the judiciary.
Justice Khalila Diana Kamara, representing the newly appointed High Court Judges, praised the appointments as a demonstration of the judiciary’s dynamic nature and its commitment to an effective judicial system. She called on her colleagues to fulfill their duties with fairness and integrity, stating, “Let us serve our beloved nation and create legacies worthy of emulation.”
Among the newly appointed judges are five who have previously served as Magistrates, alongside others transitioning from the corporate sector. Additionally, the ceremony saw the swearing-in of 19 lawyers as Notaries Public, including notable figures such as Roland Gidwani and Emmanuel Teddy Koroma.
