Freetown, Sierra Leone – The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially reopened for the 2024-2025 legal year after a two-month judicial break.
The court, headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria, has a busy agenda, with 38 cases slated for hearing by the end of September. Among these, 20 judgments are expected to be delivered.
Notably, Sierra Leone will be in the spotlight on September 27, 2024, with two critical cases set for hearing.
The Forum Against Harmful Practices (FAHP) and Satta Lamin Banya have filed suits against the Sierra Leonean government, raising significant concerns about human rights violations in the country. The hearings will be presided over by Hon. Justice Ricardo Claúdio Monteiro Gonçalves and Hon. Justice Gberi-Be Ouattara.
One of the cases, brought forward by Satta Lamin Banya, an advocate for the All Peoples Congress (APC) Party, alleges that the Sierra Leonean government failed to investigate and prosecute individuals responsible for her 2018 gang rape. This case underscores the pressing issue of accountability and justice for survivors of sexual violence in Sierra Leone.
In another high-profile case, FAHP, in collaboration with ‘We Are Purposeful’ and Kadijatu Balaima Allieu, has accused the Sierra Leonean government of neglecting its duty to criminalize Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The plaintiffs argue that the absence of explicit laws banning FGM has led to continuous violations of fundamental human rights, leaving countless women and girls vulnerable to this harmful practice.
In addition to these cases, three other pending judgments involve claims against Sierra Leone. These include cases filed by Hassan Kargbo & 7 Others, Cassandra Garber & 4 Others, and Advocaid Limited, with dates yet to be announced.
The ECOWAS Court began its first session of the legal year on September 24, 2024, hearing seven cases, including notable disputes involving Nigeria and Guinea.
At the opening ceremony, Justice Edward Amoako Asante, President of the ECOWAS Court, addressed the legal community, reaffirming the court’s dedication to addressing significant human rights issues and ensuring justice is served.
His remarks emphasized the court’s vital role in protecting the rights of citizens across West Africa, making this legal year a pivotal one for the region.
As these cases proceed, Sierra Leone faces increased scrutiny over its human rights record, particularly regarding gender-based violence and harmful traditional practices. The outcomes will likely have far-reaching implications for the country’s legal framework and its approach to human rights.
