By Alimatu Jalloh
Freetown, July 16, 2025 — The Judiciary of Sierra Leone is in mourning following the passing of Honourable Justice Dr. Abou Bhakarr Muhammad Binneh-Kamara, esteemed Justice of the Court of Appeal, who died on 15 July 2025 after a brief illness.
In a solemn tribute to his legacy, the Honourable Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Komba Kamanda, has directed that the Judiciary flag be flown at half-mast beginning 16 July 2025. Justice Binneh-Kamara’s distinguished judicial career, marked by integrity, dedication, and intellectual rigor, has left an indelible mark on Sierra Leone’s legal landscape.
A Life of Scholarship and Service
Justice Binneh-Kamara began his journey on the Bench as a Magistrate and was later appointed a High Court Judge, where he presided over numerous complex cases with fairness and professionalism. In April 2025, he ascended to the Court of Appeal, continuing his legacy of upholding justice.
Beyond the courtroom, he was a celebrated scholar, holding postgraduate degrees from Njala University, Fourah Bay College, and the University of Bedfordshire in the UK. His academic focus spanned constitutional law, communications, and war crimes jurisprudence. His early career also included journalism, having worked as a reporter for the Standard Times Newspaper. Tributes and Memorials
The Honourable Chief Justice described the passing as “a tremendous loss not only to the Judiciary but to the legal profession and the country at large.” A solemn memorial session in honour of the late Justice Binneh-Kamara will be held on Thursday, 24 July 2025, at 10:00 AM at the main Law Court Building.
Janazah prayers and burial rites are scheduled for Sunday, 20 July 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Hezbullah Mosque, Water Street, Congo Town in Freetown.
The Judiciary extends heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and friends, and joins the nation in mourning a man whose life embodied compassion, intellect, and justice.