By Alimatu Jalloh
October 16, 2025: In a landmark event underscoring his commitment to judicial reform, Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, officially commissioned the newly renovated Magistrate’s and High Court in Kono District. The ceremony marks a significant step in expanding access to justice and improving legal infrastructure in the region.
Addressing dignitaries and residents at the commissioning, Chief Justice Kamanda reaffirmed his dedication to making justice accessible across Sierra Leone. “I will continue to make access to justice the cornerstone of justice delivery in Sierra Leone,” he declared. “Reforming the Judiciary remains a top priority.”
The Chief Justice emphasized that the modern, well-equipped court complex is a direct fulfillment of promises made to the people of Kono. He recalled that prior to his appointment, the district lacked a Resident High Court Judge—a gap he pledged to close after consultations with local Paramount Chiefs. That promise has now been realized, alongside the replacement of the district’s previously dilapidated court buildings.
“I am here today with my delegation from Freetown not only to commission a court,” he said, “but to fulfil a promise I made to the people of Kono District.”
Justice Kamanda also highlighted similar milestones achieved under his leadership, including the commissioning of the Sexual Offences Model Court in Bo and the first Magistrate’s Court in Mile 91. He announced that Makeni will soon host another specialized court, signaling continued momentum in judicial development nationwide.
Looking ahead, the Chief Justice unveiled plans to introduce a circuit court system in Kono District. This initiative will enable Magistrates to travel and preside over cases in various chiefdoms, thereby enhancing judicial reach and efficiency at the grassroots level.
Representing the fourteen Paramount Chiefs, Honourable PC Sahr Youngai Kontanday Mbriwa II of Fiama Chiefdom expressed gratitude to President Julius Maada Bio for appointing the first Chief Justice from the Kono tribe. “The people of Kono are grateful,” he said. “We are ready to support our son, Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda.”
PC Mbriwa also raised concerns about the administration of Local Courts, citing confusion over institutional oversight since the 2011 Local Courts Act transferred responsibility from the Ministry of Local Government to the Judiciary. He appealed for the Chief Justice’s intervention to resolve the ambiguity.
In response, Chief Justice Kamanda pledged to engage the Attorney General and Minister of Justice to clarify the matter and ensure a swift resolution.
The event also featured remarks from Major General Sahr David Thomas Ngaujah, representing the Chief of Defence Staff. He described the administration of justice as a divine responsibility, quoting scripture to underscore the moral weight of judicial leadership. He praised Chief Justice Kamanda as a “visionary and transformational leader” and affirmed the military’s support for upholding law and order.
Local Unit Commanders in Kono District echoed this commitment, pledging continued collaboration in maintaining peace and justice in the region.