FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – In an urgent appeal, the Christian Lawyers Center, known as LEGAL LINK, has requested that President Julius Maada Bio withhold his assent to the recently passed Criminal Procedure Act 2024.
The organization expressed concern over the removal of the jury system from the final version of the legislation, a change made without public consultation.
LEGAL LINK highlighted President Bio’s leadership in enacting progressive laws, including the Abolition of the Death Penalty Act and the Prohibition of Early Child Marriage Act. The organization emphasized the positive impact these laws have had on vulnerable groups in Sierra Leone.
However, the recent exclusion of the jury system from the Criminal Procedure Act has raised significant concerns.
LEGAL LINK argued that this system, crucial for trials involving serious offenses like murder and treason, ensures fairness and public trust in the judicial process. They contended that the removal was done surreptitiously, without adequate public debate or justification.
The organization also criticized arguments suggesting that the jury system contributes to delays and corruption in the justice system, asserting that such issues are present in judge-alone trials as well.
LEGAL LINK proposed reforms, including the establishment of a Jury Manager role to improve accountability and efficiency.
LEGAL LINK called for the bill to be returned to Parliament to reinstate the jury provisions, warning of the risks of potential miscarriages of justice and increased corruption if serious offenses are tried solely by judges.
The appeal has been copied to key government officials, including the Attorney General and the Speaker of Parliament, highlighting the urgency and importance of the issue.
