In a historic move to modernise Sierra Leone’s criminal justice system, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., today laid down the *Criminal Procedure Act (Commencement) Regulations, 2025, Statutory Instrument No. 6 of 2025*, before the House of Parliament. This legislative milestone marks a decisive shift from the colonial-era *Criminal Procedure Act of 1965*, introducing a progressive legal framework aligned with international human rights standards.
With the *Criminal Procedure Act (Commencement Regulations) 2025*, the commencement date for the Criminal Procedure Act 2024 has been set for the start of the next Criminal Session– *16 September 2025*. The new legislation represents a comprehensive overhaul of Sierra Leone’s criminal justice procedures. Among its key provisions are measures to expedite trials, reduce case backlogs, and ensure fairer judicial processes. The Act introduces alternative and suspended sentencing for minor offences, a move expected to alleviate prison overcrowding while maintaining accountability.
A major focus of the reforms is the protection of fundamental rights. The legislation strengthens safeguards for defendants, including guaranteed legal representation and reinforced due process protections. Equally significant are its enhanced witness protection mechanisms, designed to encourage testimony and ensure the safety of those assisting in criminal proceedings.
Attorney General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay Esq. emphasised the transformative nature of these reforms. “This legislation represents our commitment to building a justice system that is both efficient and equitable,” he stated. “By modernising our criminal procedures, we are ensuring that Sierra Leone’s legal framework meets international standards while addressing the specific needs of our citizens.”
The Justice Sector Coordination Office (JSCO), headed by Mr Shahid M. Korjie played a pivotal role in developing these reforms through extensive consultations with judicial officials, law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations and international partners. Their coordination efforts were crucial in the drafting and enactment of this legislation.
Their efforts have been centred around ensuring that the Act reflects the needs of the Sierra Leonean people while aligning with the country’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and fundamental rights. Mr. Korjie and his team have been at the forefront, engaging in consultations with stakeholders, gathering insights from international legal experts, and working relentlessly to ensure that this new piece of legislation would meet the highest standards of justice.
The work of the Justice Sector Coordination Office has been pivotal in facilitating a collaborative approach to reform, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders to ensure that the new Criminal Procedure Act is not only legally sound but also socially relevant and contextually appropriate for Sierra Leone.
The implementation of the *Criminal Procedure Act 2024* is expected to transform Sierra Leone’s judicial landscape. Legal analysts predict the reforms will significantly reduce trial delays, improve public confidence in the justice system, and strengthen the country’s adherence to international legal standards. As September’s implementation date approaches, justice sector stakeholders are preparing for a smooth transition to the new legal regime.
