Chief Justice His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda presided over a swearing-in ceremony that welcomed two newly appointed judges to the Court of Appeal, seven judges to the High Court, and nineteen Notaries Public. This ceremony, held at the Main Law Courts Building in Freetown, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to enhance the judicial system in the country.
The ceremony followed a unanimous approval from Parliament, which took place in May 2025, endorsing all eleven appointees. This parliamentary endorsement underscores the importance of judicial appointments in fostering a robust legal framework within Sierra Leone. The Executive Secretary of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission (JLSC), Emilda Stronge, addressed the audience, emphasizing that this event represents a crucial step toward realizing the Chief Justice’s vision of increasing access to justice nationwide.
In his address, Chief Justice Kamanda described the judiciary as a “bastion of justice, fairness, and integrity.” He expressed optimism that the newly sworn-in judges would not only bolster the number of judicial officers but also contribute to the ongoing reforms aimed at improving the delivery of justice throughout Sierra Leone. He acknowledged the geographical disparities in access to justice, revealing plans to assign some judges to areas lacking resident High Court judges. This initiative aims to ensure that justice is accessible to all citizens, regardless of their location.
The Chief Justice urged the new judges to maintain independence and impartiality in their roles, emphasizing the importance of upholding the Constitution. He welcomed them warmly to the Bench, assuring them of his support and the collective backing of the judiciary. “Continue to work hard and selflessly serve humanity,” he concluded, inspiring the new appointees to embrace their responsibilities with dedication.
Honourable Justice Alfred T. Ganda, speaking on behalf of the newly appointed Court of Appeal judges, expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in them by the Chief Justice and the JLSC. He acknowledged the weight of their appointments, viewing them as a profound responsibility to uphold the rule of law and serve the people of Sierra Leone with integrity. Justice Ganda thanked the Chief Justice for his unwavering guidance and support, which he noted continues to inspire excellence within the judiciary.
In a heartfelt vote of thanks, Honourable Justice Khalila Diana Kamara, representing the newly appointed High Court judges, highlighted the dynamic nature of the judiciary. She pointed out that the appointment of seven High Court judges, along with three justices of the Court of Appeal and one to the Supreme Court, reflects the judiciary’s commitment to enhancing the country’s judicial machinery. Justice Kamara expressed gratitude for this milestone, recognizing its significance in strengthening the judiciary’s role as a vital arm of government.
She encouraged her fellow judges to approach their duties with a sense of sacredness and nobility, reminding them of the importance of fairness, integrity, and decorum in their work. “Let us inspire hope, trust, and respect for the judiciary,” she urged, emphasizing the need to dispense justice impartially, regardless of who appears before them.
Among the newly appointed judges, five have previously served as magistrates, bringing years of experience to their new roles. These include Honourable Justices Marke Ngegba, Isata S. Sellu-Tucker, Josephine F. Hinga, Santigie Ibrahim S. Bangura, and Sahr Elogima Kekura. Additionally, Ms. Khalila Diana Kamara and Andrew Samuel Curtis Johnson joined the judiciary after extensive careers in the corporate sector.
The ceremony also witnessed the swearing-in of nineteen lawyers as Notaries Public, including notable figures such as Roland Gidwani, Emmanuel Teddy Koroma, Saptieu Saccoh, Martina B. Egbenda, and A.J.M Bockarie. This addition of Notaries Public further strengthens the legal framework of Sierra Leone, enhancing the accessibility of legal services across the nation.
This swearing-in ceremony stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment of the Sierra Leonean judiciary to reform, enhance access to justice, and uphold the principles of democracy and the rule of law. As the new judges and Notaries Public embark on their journeys, the judiciary remains hopeful for a future marked by fairness, integrity, and justice for all citizens.
