FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – 4th July 2025: The Judiciary of Sierra Leone is pleased to announce the appointment of the Honourable Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, as the Chairman of the Judicial Council of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
This prestigious appointment follows the recent election of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio as the Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, during the 65th Ordinary Session held in Abuja, Nigeria. In line with ECOWAS protocols, the assumption of the Chairmanship of the Authority by a Head of State also confers the Chairmanship of the Judicial Council on the Chief Justice of that Member State.
The ECOWAS Judicial Council is composed of all Chief Justices of the Community’s 15 Member States and serves as the Legal Advisory Body that supports the judicial arm of ECOWAS, including oversight over the operations of the ECOWAS Court of Justice. As Chairman, Chief Justice Kamanda will preside over the Council’s deliberations, facilitate regional judicial cooperation, and provide leadership in advancing the rule of law, judicial independence, and integration across the sub-region.
In his response to the appointment, Chief Justice Kamanda expressed deep appreciation and reaffirmed his commitment to regional legal cooperation and the strengthening of judicial systems within West Africa. He said, “It is a great honour to serve as Chairman of the ECOWAS Judicial Council at such a critical time for our region. As guardians of justice, we must work collectively to uphold the rule of law, protect human rights, and ensure that justice transcends borders. I am committed to working with my fellow Chief Justices to strengthen our institutions and deliver justice that our people can trust.”
The Judiciary of Sierra Leone views this appointment not only as a personal achievement for the Honourable Chief Justice but also as a proud moment for Sierra Leone’s justice system. It reflects growing regional recognition of the country’s judicial reforms, the professionalism of its bench, and its contribution to regional stability and good governance.
Chief Justice Kamanda’s leadership at the helm of the ECOWAS Judicial Council is expected to further promote legal harmonization, strengthen cross-border judicial collaboration, and enhance access to justice throughout the West African region.
Congratulations my Lord the Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda.
