Chief Justice’s Chambers in Freetown. 4th March, 2026: The Honourable Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, has called on the Executive Members of the Inter-Religious Council to see themselves as Champion of Peace and at the same time be bold to speak out at this crucial time irrespective of who’s involved.
The Council’s delegation, led by its President, Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Justice, during which discussions focused on national cohesion, justice delivery, and preparations ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Addressing the delegation, the Chief Justice urged the Council to actively engage stakeholders and the wider public to prevent actions or rhetoric that could undermine national peace and stability. He emphasized that their presence and moral voice are timely and necessary, particularly as the country prepares for the 2028 national elections.
Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda further encouraged the Inter-Religious Council to boldly condemn any individual, association, or institution that engages in acts capable of causing chaos in the country.
The Chief Justice stressed the need to promote patriotism, nationalism, and love for country, noting that Sierra Leoneans must reject any desire for war or violence.
He expressed concern over increasing polarization and hostility within the country, observing that public servants often face disrespect and abusive language upon appointment to national positions.
“People no longer celebrate success but failures, and that is not a good sign for our nation or an inspiration to our children and younger generation,” he stated.
On issues relating to justice delivery, the Chief Justice assured the Council of his unwavering commitment to addressing any form of injustice within the judiciary. He urged them to bring to his attention any wrongdoing or misconduct by anyone within the judiciary, assuring that such concerns would be addressed immediately.
Responding to concerns about cases involving political leaders, the Chief Justice underscored the independence of the judiciary. He maintained that once a matter is before the court, it is the duty of the court to examine the merits of the case and deliver justice impartially, without fear or favour, regardless of the status of the parties involved.
He advised that the Council’s primary role should be to help prevent disputes and tensions from escalating to the courts. On the issue of Yenga, he encouraged diplomacy and said now is the time to address it.
In his remarks, Archbishop His Grace Edward Tamba Charles congratulated the Chief Justice on his recent appointment as a Judge of the Residual Special Court and commended the judiciary for what he described as massive reforms undertaken in recent times.
He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to promoting peace and national unity and sought guidance on how best the Council could engage constructively when politically sensitive matters arise.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to collaboration in promoting justice, accountability, and sustainable peace across Sierra Leone.
In attendance were Supreme Court Judge, Honourable Justice Alusine Sesay; Court of Appeal Judge, Honourable Justice Jamesina King; the Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat-Musa Mewa Esq and the Vice President of the Inter-Religious Council, Alhaji Murtada Sesay; the Secretary-General Dr. Osman Jesse Fornah and the President of the Council of Churches, Rev. Henry A. Samuels among others.
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