Chief Justice Komba Kamanda Launches Court of Appeal’s First-Ever Provincial Sittings

Chief Justice Komba Kamanda has launched the first-ever provincial sittings of the Court of Appeal, a groundbreaking move that brings justice closer to the people and marks a milestone in Sierra Leone’s judicial history

For the first time since the Judiciary’s establishment, the Court of Appeal will sit outside Freetown to hear and determine appeals emanating from the provinces. The initiative, described by many as a major step toward judicial decentralization, reflects the Chief Justice’s commitment to making justice more accessible, affordable, and responsive to all citizens.

According to the Judiciary, the circuit sittings will commence on Thursday, 27th November 2025, in Makeni City, where appeals from the North-East and North-Western Regions will be heard. The next session will take place on Tuesday, 20th January 2026, in Bo City, covering appeals from the Southern and Eastern Regions.

Chief Justice Kamanda said the move marks a new chapter in Sierra Leone’s justice delivery system, ensuring that citizens no longer have to travel long distances or incur high costs to access appellate justice.

“Our goal is to remove geographical and financial barriers to justice,” he stated. “The Judiciary must serve every Sierra Leonean, regardless of where they live. Justice delayed or denied due to distance is no justice at all.”

He emphasized that the Judiciary remains steadfast in promoting fairness, transparency, and the rule of law across all regions.

The new arrangement is part of broader judicial reform efforts aimed at modernizing the courts, improving efficiency, and strengthening public confidence in the justice system.

Stakeholders, including the Office of the Attorney General and the Legal Aid Board, have been commended for their continued collaboration and support in this transformative process.

The initiative has been widely welcomed by legal practitioners and citizens alike, who see it as a long-awaited step toward equitable justice delivery across Sierra Leone.