Court of Appeal Holds Historic First-Ever Circuit Sitting in Kenema

Kenema City witnessed a historic development as the Court of Appeal of Sierra Leone held its first-ever circuit court sitting in the city since the establishment of the country’s judiciary.

The landmark event attracted members of the bench and bar, traditional authorities, security sector representatives, legal practitioners and local administrators, marking a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to decentralize the justice system and improve citizens’ access to justice across the country.

In his welcome address, resident High Court Judge Abdul Sheriff expressed appreciation to the Judiciary of Sierra Leone for selecting Kenema as the venue for the historic sitting. He described the initiative as a major boost for residents in the South-Eastern Region, noting that it would strengthen public confidence in the justice system and enhance access to judicial services.

The Mayor of Kenema, Thomas Baio, also welcomed the justices and members of the judiciary to the city. He stated that Kenema, being one of the region’s major urban centers, was honored to host such a significant judicial engagement.

According to the mayor, the presence of the Court of Appeal in the city reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and equitable access to justice for all citizens.

Traditional leaders also commended the initiative. The Paramount Chief of Nongowa Chiefdom, Sadique Kapuwa, praised the judiciary for recognizing the needs of rural communities and ensuring that justice services reach people in the provinces. He encouraged residents to continue respecting the rule of law and to support the work of the courts.

Similarly, the Town Chief of Kenema, Momoh Ngombulango, described the circuit sitting as a proud moment for the city and assured members of the judiciary of the community’s cooperation and hospitality throughout the court’s stay.

Providing assurances on security arrangements, Assistant Inspector General of Police East Francis Meindey stated that the Sierra Leone Police had put adequate measures in place to guarantee a peaceful and orderly court session. He emphasized that the police remain committed to supporting the judiciary and maintaining law and order during the proceedings.

Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, Komba Kamanda, said the circuit sitting forms part of the judiciary’s broader reform agenda aimed at bringing justice closer to the people. He noted that for many years litigants from the South-Eastern Region had to travel long distances to Freetown to pursue appeals, a situation that often created financial and logistical challenges.

Justice Kamanda described the initiative as a milestone in the administration of justice, reaffirming the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that justice remains accessible, affordable and timely for all citizens. He further disclosed that the Court of Appeal would hear and determine 34 appeals originating from the region during the session, a move expected to reduce backlog and delays in the justice delivery process.

The inaugural circuit sitting of the Court of Appeal in the South-Eastern Region is widely regarded as a major step toward decentralizing the justice system, easing the burden on litigants and strengthening the rule of law across Sierra Leone.

Local residents and stakeholders have expressed optimism that similar initiatives will continue to enhance access to justice in provincial communities.

The opening ceremony was chaired by the Master and Registrar of the Judiciary, Lloyd Hindolo Jusu.