Police Pledge Continued Support as Court of Appeal Sits in Kenema

The Assistant Inspector General of Police for the Eastern Region, Francis Brima Meinday, has praised the strong collaboration between the Sierra Leone Police and the Judiciary of Sierra Leone during the official opening of the Court of Appeal of Sierra Leone sitting in Kenema City.

Speaking at the ceremony, AIG Meinday described the establishment of the Court of Appeal sitting in Kenema as a significant milestone in strengthening the rule of law and expanding access to justice for citizens in the Eastern Region.

He noted that for many years litigants in the region were compelled to travel long distances to pursue appellate matters, often to Freetown, a situation he said placed heavy financial and logistical burdens on individuals and their families.

According to the Regional Police Commander, the presence of the appellate court in the region will significantly help reduce case backlogs while ensuring the timely resolution of appeals. He added that the initiative will not only ease pressure on higher courts but will also enhance public confidence in the justice system.

AIG Meinday further acknowledged the critical role played by the Judiciary in supporting the work of the police in the administration of justice across Kenema and the wider Eastern Region. He commended the courts for their dedication to due process, timely sittings and professional guidance, which he said have contributed immensely to strengthening justice delivery.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Sierra Leone Police to maintaining the strong working relationship with the Judiciary, assuring that the police will continue to provide the necessary support for the smooth functioning of the courts. This, he said, includes ensuring adequate security during court proceedings and maintaining professionalism in the handling of cases.

In his concluding remarks, AIG Meinday expressed optimism that sustained cooperation between the police and the Judiciary will further strengthen justice delivery and uphold the rule of law across Sierra Leone.