By: Saidu Jalloh
The Judiciary of Sierra Leone, through the Judicial and Legal Training Institute (JLTI), has concluded a two-day capacity-building workshop for thirteen (13) newly appointed Magistrates ahead of their deployment to various parts of the country.
The workshop, which began on Friday, May 23, 2025, was held at the Sexual Offences Model Court at the main Law Courts Building in Freetown. It aimed to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of judicial service delivery at the magisterial level.
In his opening remarks, Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda emphasized the importance and timeliness of the training, especially as the new Magistrates transition from legal practitioners to judicial officers. He highlighted the distinction between serving at the Bar and serving on the Bench, noting that while these appointees had practiced law in various capacities, their new roles demand impartiality, integrity, and accountability.
“You have now been entrusted with the duty to dispense justice to all, without fear or favour,” said the Chief Justice. “It would be unfair to send you into your roles without proper foundational training.”
He noted that the workshop covered essential legal areas, including the Criminal Procedure Act (1965/2024), civil procedure, evidence, and judicial ethics. He described the role of a Magistrate as a career path that requires diligence and professionalism, urging the new officers to uphold the values of the judiciary.
“You are now accountable for your actions. I am ready to support you, but if you fall short, the ethical standards of our noble profession will apply,” he warned.
Justice Reginald Fynn (JA), a member of the JLTI, reiterated that the training was designed to bring the Magistrates up to speed with their duties and the institution’s core values: independence, integrity, impartiality, and equality. He noted that facilitators were carefully selected from among experienced Judges who had previously served as Magistrates, as well as those with significant experience in both civil and criminal law.
The newly appointed Magistrates, some of whom have already been posted to districts such as Port Loko, Mile 91, York, Waterloo, and Kono, received training in a range of subjects. Key sessions included:
Overview of Magisterial Jurisdiction with focus on civil and criminal procedure, jointly led by Justices Tonia Barnette (JA) and Simeon Allieu (JA).
Bail Regulations and Judicial Policy, delivered by the Hon. Chief Justice.
Evidence at a Glance, taught by Justices Fatmatta B. Alhadi, Reginald Fynn, and Simeon Allieu.
Judgment Writing, Bench Mannerism, Administrative Duties, and Ethical Conduct, with discussions also addressing challenges specific to provincial courts.
The workshop reflects the judiciary’s commitment to building a competent, accountable, and professional magistracy, laying a strong foundation for justice delivery across Sierra Leone.