By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
On July 4, 2025, the Judiciary of Sierra Leone announced that Chief Justice Komba Kamanda has officially assumed the chairmanship of the ECOWAS Judicial Council in a press statement.
This significant appointment follows the 65th Ordinary Session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), held in Abuja, Nigeria, where he was elected to lead the council. The ECOWAS Judicial Council plays a critical role in promoting justice and strengthening legal standards across the West African region.
Chief Justice Kamanda’s appointment reflects Sierra Leone’s growing influence within ECOWAS and the confidence that member states have placed in his leadership. As chair, he will oversee the council’s efforts to harmonize judicial practices, enhance the rule of law, and promote accountability within the region’s legal systems.
In a public statement, Chief Justice Kamanda expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead such an important body.
“I am honoured to take on this role at a time when our region faces numerous challenges in the pursuit of justice and legal reform. Together, we will strive to foster collaboration among member states and strengthen the judiciary to better serve our citizens,” he said.
The ECOWAS Judicial Council is composed of Chief Justices from the 15 member states. It serves as a platform for sharing best practices, addressing shared legal challenges, and reinforcing judicial independence throughout the region. Under Kamanda’s leadership, the council will focus on key issues such as improving access to justice, addressing human rights violations, and advancing legislative reforms.
This leadership transition comes at a pivotal time for West Africa, which continues to grapple with political instability and governance challenges. By strengthening judicial cooperation and promoting uniform legal standards, the council under Kamanda’s chairmanship is expected to play a key role in advancing regional stability and safeguarding the rights of citizens.
Chief Justice Kamanda brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served in various capacities within Sierra Leone’s judiciary. His dedication to improving legal frameworks and ensuring equitable access to justice positions him well to lead the council during this critical period.
As the ECOWAS Judicial Council embarks on new initiatives, there is growing optimism among legal professionals and policymakers that Kamanda’s leadership will foster a more cohesive, effective, and rights-focused judicial environment across West Africa.
With Chief Justice Kamanda at the helm, Sierra Leone is poised to make a lasting impact on the region’s legal and judicial landscape affirming its commitment to justice, accountability, and regional cooperation.