The Prosecutor of the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone (RSCSL), Mr. James C. Johnson, along with a delegation comprising Madam Binta Mansaray – Registrar (RSCSL), Mr. Mohamed Bangura (Legal Adviser to the Prosecutor), and Mr. J.W Saffa (Protection Officer), undertook a significant courtesy visit to the Inspector General of Police at Police Headquarters on Monday, March 4th, 2024.
During the visit, Mr. Johnson conveyed his profound appreciation for the prevailing atmosphere of tranquility in the nation, attributing it to the commendable efforts of the Sierra Leone Police, under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). He lauded the commitment and professionalism exhibited by the police force and expressed gratitude for their unwavering support towards the endeavors of the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone.
In response, Mr. Sellu, the Inspector General of Police, warmly welcomed the delegation to Police Headquarters and assured them of the Sierra Leone Police’s steadfast dedication to upholding peace, security, and fostering a conducive environment for national development. He reiterated the police force’s unwavering commitment to providing adequate security measures and pledged continued support for the operations and mandates of the Court within Sierra Leone.
The meeting served as a testament to the collaborative relationship between the Sierra Leone Police and the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone, highlighting their shared commitment to justice, accountability, and the rule of law. It underscored the pivotal role of law enforcement agencies in safeguarding the peace and stability of the nation, thereby creating an enabling environment for socio-economic progress and prosperity.
Mr. Johnson’s acknowledgment of the Sierra Leone Police’s efforts resonated widely, particularly among stakeholders within the legal and human rights communities. His recognition of the crucial role played by the police in maintaining law and order underscores the importance of effective collaboration between judicial institutions and law enforcement agencies in promoting accountability and upholding the rights of citizens.
The visit also provided an opportunity for constructive dialogue and engagement between the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone Police, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation in addressing challenges related to transitional justice, accountability, and post-conflict reconciliation.
Furthermore, it highlighted the significance of international and domestic partnerships in advancing the goals of justice and accountability, particularly in countries recovering from conflict and seeking to rebuild institutions and promote reconciliation.
As the nation continues on its path towards sustainable development and peace consolidation, the collaboration between the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone and the Sierra Leone Police serves as a beacon of hope and progress. It demonstrates the collective resolve of national and international stakeholders to ensure that the legacy of conflict is addressed comprehensively, and that perpetrators of atrocities are held accountable for their actions.