By Amin kef (Ranger)

The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI), a leading human rights and social policy advocacy organization, has on Friday May 23, 2025, issued a strong call for urgent and comprehensive reforms within Sierra Leone’s judiciary. Citing widespread public distrust, the organization warns of a growing crisis in confidence that threatens the country’s justice system and the rule of law.

In a Press Release issued, CHRDI highlighted a number of troubling issues that have undermined public faith in the judiciary, including perceived corruption, political interference and inefficient court processes.

Key Issues Undermining Trust:

- Perceived Bias and Corruption: The organization pointed to increasing reports of biased rulings and corrupt practices, which it says have significantly eroded trust in judicial outcomes.


- Lack of Transparency and Accountability: A general absence of transparency in legal proceedings and insufficient mechanisms to hold judicial officers accountable have led to growing public skepticism.


- Delays and Bureaucratic Hurdles: Prolonged delays in court cases and limited access to justice, particularly for marginalized groups, continue to frustrate citizens seeking redress.


- Political Interference: CHRDI expressed concern over apparent political influences on judicial decisions, warning that such interference undermines the independence of the judiciary and violates international standards.


- Inadequate Working Conditions: Poor conditions of service for judicial staff, the organization added, further compromise the effectiveness of the judicial system and discourage qualified professionals from serving.

In response to these concerns, CHRDI is calling for:

- Immediate Reform of the Judicial System: The organization urges the Government to undertake sweeping reforms aimed at enhancing judicial independence, improving transparency and streamlining procedures to ensure timely justice.


- Accountability Measures: CHRDI advocates for the establishment of effective mechanisms to investigate and address allegations of misconduct and corruption within the judiciary.


- Public Engagement and Confidence-Building: The organization calls on authorities to strengthen public trust through greater community engagement and the implementation of outreach programs that foster dialogue and transparency.


- Protection of Judicial Independence: A central demand is the full protection of judicial independence from political or other external pressures, ensuring impartial adjudication in all matters.

Abdul M. Fatoma, Chief Executive of CHRDI, noted that an informed public is increasingly skeptical of the judiciary’s ability to serve justice impartially. “Those who better understand how the system works are often those who trust it the least,” he said. Citing the United Nations Basic Principles on the Independence of the Judiciary, Abdul Fatoma emphasized that judicial independence is not a privilege of the judiciary, but a right of all individuals seeking justice.

CHRDI announced plans to host public forums, engage national stakeholders and advocate for legislative changes to rebuild trust in the judicial system. These efforts, the organization says, aim to create a justice system that is truly independent, fair and accountable to the people.

In a related development, the Judiciary of Sierra Leone has issued a formal response following the recent publication by CHRDI. The Judiciary’s Communication team condemned the report as a malicious, self-serving and misleading attempt aimed at blackmailing the institution.

Officials have assured the public that a full clarification addressing the issues raised and exposing the motives behind the publication will be provided in due course. The Judiciary emphasized its commitment to transparency and upholding justice amidst attempts to undermine its reputation.

Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) is a rights-based advocacy organization that promotes democratic governance, rule of law and public accountability. The organization holds Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and is accredited to various UN agencies. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/rights-group-says-sierra-leones-justice-system-failing-citizens-urges-immediate-overhaul/