By: Audrey Raymonda John
The Parliament of the Republic of Sierra Leone has on Friday 20th December 2024, debated and unanimously approved Justice Komba Kamanda as Chief Justice of Sierra Leone and six others to served in various positions of trust.
Presenting the Committee’s report, the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma assured Members of Parliament that the Nominees were interviewed using strict procedures, including educational backgrounds, track records in pertinent work situations, asset declaration, tax obligations, and vision for productive tenures.
The Deputy Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, commended President Bio for appointing the Nominees. He zoomed in on the Chief Justice and acknowledged that the latter went through the crucibles of the judiciary system.
He described him as one of the youngest Chief Justices. Hon. Silikie admonished him to represent the youths in the implementation of justice. He informed the House that Abu, Abu has huge potential and is well known in Sierra Leone. “You are one of the longest-serving Resident Ministers in the North,” he stated.
Hon. Silikie noted that the Nominee is a household Name and was one of the persons who sacrificed his life for the SLPP. He encouraged him to continue to solicit support in the North. The Deputy Leader advised the new Resident Minister to follow the footsteps of the former Resident Minister, Abu Abu Koroma.
He described Madam Dabo “as a very strong and resilient personality”, one who used to give hope when the SLPP was in opposition. He also acknowledged Mr. Cole and wished all the Nominees well in their respective duties.
The Deputy Leader of Opposition, Hon Daniel Brima Koroma, reflected on the interview of the Nominees and reassured the Plenary that the decision on the Committee Report was unanimous. He acknowledged Justice Komba Kamanda as a household Name in the judiciary.
He used the opportunity to advise the judiciary on the Local Court system, adding that it is completely out of hand and recalling the conflict surrounding the same. He raised a series of concerns over the Local Court and noted that it needs to be supervised in the adjudication of cases in tandem with educational qualifications. He also spoke positively about enacting the Criminal Procedure Act, giving credit to the former Chief Justice, Hon. Justice Browne Bank.
The MP wished to see the judiciary non-political and expressed hope for it to be independent. He expressed serious concern over the judiciary system that is currently devoid of the jury system. He advised the Chief Justice to change public perception about the judiciary. Reflecting on the interview of the Nominees, he said they are all qualified.
Hon. Hindolo Ngevao from Kailahun decried the previous debater and recalled that former President Koroma removed a Chief Justice two days after his appointment. The MP recalled his relationship with Justice Komba Kamanda and said the latter is a man of strong and positive character.
He informed the House about the reform done by the predecessor and advised the new CJ to predicate on the same. He expressed hope for the judiciary to be great again. He called on all and sundry to respect the judiciary. “When you’re approved, please work with the legislative and executive to ensure that the welfare of colleagues improve,” he stated and emphasized the reform of the same. He informed the House that Justice Komba Kamanda is nonpolitical.
Opposition Leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo ironically buttressed the position of the Deputy Leader of Government Business and noted that they want to see a judiciary that everybody would be proud of. He asked the CJ to uphold the integrity of the judiciary. He spoke about Abu Abu and wished all the Nominees well.
The Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, heaped praise on Hon. Justice Komba Kamanda and asked the Ambassador to bring home opportunities. He emphasized on the reform of the judiciary and asked the CJ to work in team team spirit. He advised all the Nominees to work hard and develop the nation.
The list of approved appointees were; Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda, Chief Justice of the Republic of Sierra Leone.
Honourable Justice Desmond Babatunde Edwards serving as Ambassador, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Dublin in Ireland.
Ambassador Rupert’s Sydney Down Davie’s serving as Member Board of Directors, Bank of Sierra Leone.
Mr Ibrahim Jalloh was appointed and approved as the Resident Minister, Northern Region.
Mr. Abu Abu Abdulai Koroma – Chairman, Sierra Leone Public Transport Authority.
Mr Eugene Cole, Member Board of Directors, Sierra Leone Maritime Administration and
Madaam Aminata Dabo, Member Board of Directors Sierra Leone Maritime Administration
