By Fatima Kpaka
The Parliament of Sierra Leone, on June 9, 2026, ratified two landmark international instruments — the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) and the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights Aiming at the Abolition of the Death Penalty — in a move hailed as a major step forward for justice sector reform and international cooperation.
Presenting the conventions, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., described both agreements as vital to Sierra Leone’s development and progress. He assured Members of Parliament that the IOMed Convention would provide a reliable, cost-effective alternative to litigation and arbitration, while also creating opportunities for Sierra Leoneans to serve as mediators.
Sesay emphasized that mediation would strengthen Sierra Leone’s foreign policy objectives, align with the UN Charter, and enhance investor confidence by offering flexible mechanisms for resolving commercial and investment disputes. He noted that states could opt out of specific dispute types, citing China, Venezuela, and Myanmar as examples.
On the Second Optional Protocol, the Attorney General underscored its importance in consolidating Sierra Leone’s abolition of the death penalty, a decision already taken by President Julius Maada Bio.
Opposition Leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo welcomed the ratification, noting that IOMed would promote peaceful dialogue, boost investor confidence, and improve Sierra Leone’s international image. He cautioned, however, that mediation agreements may lack automatic legal enforcement. He also expressed strong support for the abolition of the death penalty.
Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, backed the ratification, stressing that joining IOMed would advance peace, reduce dispute costs, attract investment, and strengthen international cooperation. He reaffirmed that the death penalty protocol reflects Sierra Leone’s commitment to human rights and aligns with the President’s vision.
The Attorney General later addressed concerns raised during the debate, clarifying the benefits and safeguards of both instruments.