By Fatima Kpaka
FREETOWN, Sept. 30, 2026: The Judiciary of Sierra Leone has pledged support for Liberia’s proposed War and Economic Crimes Court, sharing lessons from Sierra Leone’s post-conflict justice experience while cautioning that the initiative requires substantial resources and strong national commitment.
Speaking on behalf of Chief Justice Komba Kamanda during a meeting with a Liberian delegation at the Chief Justice’s Chambers in Freetown, Court of Appeal Judge Justice Jamesina E.L. King described the initiative as a commendable step towards accountability and justice.
Justice King assured the delegation that Sierra Leone’s Judiciary stands ready to share its expertise and experience but stressed that the administration of justice is costly and demands adequate funding and sustained commitment.
Drawing parallels between the histories of Sierra Leone and Liberia, she noted that both countries suffered devastating civil wars and highlighted Sierra Leone’s experience with the Special Court for Sierra Leone, which was established through an agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and the United Nations to prosecute those bearing the greatest responsibility for war crimes.
She said the court successfully prosecuted and secured convictions against several accused persons, some of whom continue to serve sentences outside Sierra Leone due to security considerations.
However, Justice King noted that the Special Court was largely internationally driven and encouraged Liberia to pursue a process that is nationally owned and led by Liberians.
“Ultimately, peace and justice must prevail,” she emphasized.
On economic crimes, Justice King outlined Sierra Leone’s efforts to strengthen anti-corruption measures through the establishment of specialized courts, including the Anti-Corruption Court, staffed by trained and experienced judges to handle cases brought by the Anti-Corruption Commission.
She explained that before the creation of these specialized courts, corruption cases were prosecuted through the Office of the Attorney-General, adding that the current framework has significantly improved the effective and efficient handling of corruption-related offences.
Justice King further conveyed Chief Justice Kamanda’s readiness to continue supporting Liberia by sharing judicial expertise and best practices, describing the neighboring country as a valued partner.
Court of Appeal Judge Justice John Bosco Allieu underscored the importance of accountability and healing in post-conflict societies, noting that while wars eventually end, the losses and suffering endured by victims can never be fully reversed.
“Many people were maimed and disabled as a result of the war,” Justice Allieu said.
High Court Judge Justice Isata Susan Sellu Tucker encouraged the Liberian delegation to undertake additional engagements with other institutions in Sierra Leone to deepen their understanding and benefit from broader experiences.
Speaking on behalf of the Liberian delegation, Head of the Office of War Crimes Rev. Amnimadab K. John expressed appreciation for the engagement, noting that religious leaders had joined efforts to help advance the initiative in Liberia.
He said the delegation was grateful for the opportunity to exchange ideas and learn from Sierra Leone’s experience in addressing war and economic crimes.
The visit forms part of wider efforts to strengthen regional cooperation, knowledge-sharing and collaboration on transitional justice, accountability and the prosecution of war-related and economic offences.