Sierra Leone’s justice sector entered a new era today with the official commencement of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024, launched at the High Court in Freetown by His Lordship, the Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda.
Chief Justice Kamanda welcomed the reforms, praising their grounding in human rights principles and harmonisation with international legal standards. He expressed confidence that the law will usher in “a more just and transparent era,” urging collective responsibility to ensure its full implementation.
At the historic ceremony, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay, described the Act as the culmination of a “20-year journey”—commending the dedication of legal professionals, policymakers, and development partners in shaping this landmark reform.
“The Criminal Procedure Act represents a decisive break from outdated practices and introduces a modern system that is more efficient, transparent, and accessible to all Sierra Leoneans,” Sesay declared.
He pledged personal oversight to ensure the law becomes “a living instrument that delivers justice fairly and swiftly.”
Highlighting its alignment with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of a rights-based justice system, Sesay outlined key innovations, including: Streamlined court procedures. Stronger investigative powers balanced with human rights safeguards, measures to cut delays that have long undermined public confidence.
Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu described the launch as “a historic day”* for Sierra Leone, revealing that police officers nationwide have already been trained on the Act’s provisions—equipping them to investigate and prosecute cases effectively under the new framework.
This landmark reform is expected to strengthen public trust in the justice sector and ensure fair, timely, and accessible justice for all citizens.
