Honorable Justice Isaac Lenaola of the Kenyan Supreme Court has been unanimously elected as the Vice President of the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone (RSCSL).

The announcement was made today, Thursday, February 29, during the Court’s Plenary held in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

The press release from the Kenyan judiciary expresses delight in Justice Lenaola’s election, citing his wealth of experience and dedication to justice as key factors in making him a fitting choice for this prestigious role. In his new position, he will serve as the deputy to Justice Richard Lussick of Samoa, who was elected as the President of the court for a two-year term.

Judge Lenaola, appointed to the Court in 2013 by the then Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki Moon, brings significant expertise to the RSCSL. The Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone is an ad hoc court and the successor to the Special Court for Sierra Leone.

Its mandate includes various critical functions:

Witness Protection and Support: Responding to threats related to testimony given before the Special Court for Sierra Leone (SCSL) and providing appropriate protection and support measures, with witness protection officers located in Freetown.

Assistance to National Prosecution Authorities: Managing governmental requests for evidence and information to support investigations, prosecutions, forfeiture proceedings, and asylum cases while upholding confidentiality obligations.

Supervision of Prison Sentences/Pardons/Commutations/Early Releases: Ensuring the enforcement of sentences, including inspection of imprisonment conditions, tracking time served, and managing dates of release. This supervision extends until 2055, involving cases such as the former President of Liberia, Charles Ghankay Taylor.

Trial of Johnny Paul Koroma: Having jurisdiction to try Koroma if he is arrested after the closure of the Special Court. The RSCSL will also make efforts to refer the case to a competent national jurisdiction for trial if not done before the Special Court’s closure in 2012.

The Kenyan judiciary extends heartfelt congratulations to Justice Lenaola and wishes him great success in his new role as Vice President of the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone. This election emphasizes the international recognition of Justice Lenaola’s judicial acumen and dedication to upholding the principles of justice.