Freetown, Sierra Leone – April 16, 2026 – The Lawyers’ Society of Sierra Leone has voiced serious concerns over the conviction and sentencing of Zainab Sheriff, describing the four-year-and-two-month prison term imposed by Magistrate Brima Jah as “unjustifiably excessive” and an infringement on fundamental rights.
In a press release issued today, the professional body expressed its deep concern regarding the judgment in the case of *The Inspector General of Police v. Zainab Sheriff*. The Society argued that the comments made by Ms. Sheriff, in the legitimate exercise of her right to freedom of expression, should not have resulted in criminal prosecution.
The Lawyers’ Society noted that the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) had already imposed a fine on the matter, which was duly paid by the opposition party. It questioned the need for a separate criminal case, particularly in light of concerns over the fine’s legality.
The organization also criticized the court’s refusal to grant Ms. Sheriff bail throughout the summary trial, stating that this went against the presumption of innocence and her right to bail as provided under the new Criminal Procedure Act of 2024.
“The freedom to express legitimate opinions is an essential component of democracy, even when those opinions may be unpopular or unpalatable,” the statement emphasized. “In our assessment, the sentence imposed on Ms. Sheriff appears unnecessarily severe and could discourage citizens from voicing diverse perspectives, suggesting limited tolerance for free and honest speech and dialogue by the government.”
In response to these concerns, the Lawyers’ Society urged the Chief Justice to exercise his summary review powers under Section 17 of the Laws of Sierra Leone to acquit and discharge Ms. Sheriff, referencing recent cases where similar interventions were made in instances of unfair sentencing.
The Society reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and advocating for good governance that protects the fundamental rights of the people of Sierra Leone.
Background
Zainab Sheriff was convicted and sentenced to four years and two months’ imprisonment following comments she made that led to charges brought by the Inspector General of Police. The case has raised important questions about the limits of free speech, the role of the judiciary, and the application of criminal law in matters that some observers view as primarily political or regulatory in nature.
This latest development has added to ongoing national discussions in Sierra Leone regarding the balance between maintaining public order and safeguarding citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of expression, particularly in the political arena.
The Lawyers’ Society remains one of the country’s leading professional bodies dedicated to the promotion and protection of the rule of law.
