By: Aminata Sesay
Sierra Leone has emphasised the importance of strengthening national courts to prosecute serious crimes, while reaffirming its commitment to cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay, Esq., made this statement during a high-level panel discussion on strengthening cooperation and complementarity between national jurisdictions and the ICC in the fight against impunity for the gravest crimes under international law.
Sesay stressed that effective justice depends on strong national institutions with the capacity to investigate and prosecute serious crimes within their jurisdiction. He noted that such efforts should be complemented by cooperation with international judicial bodies.
He highlighted the principle of complementarity under the Rome Statute, which establishes the ICC and recognizes that national authorities have the primary responsibility to investigate and prosecute international crimes. Under this principle, the ICC may intervene when a state is unwilling or genuinely unable to carry out the proceedings, subject to the conditions set out in the Statute.
The Attorney-General also emphasised that international justice must be applied consistently, regardless of an individual’s political position, influence or nationality.
He maintained that accountability for serious crimes should not depend on the status or position of the accused, underscoring the importance of fairness and equality before the law.
Cooperation between the ICC and national authorities is essential in areas such as investigations, prosecutions, the arrest and surrender of suspects, witness protection and the enforcement of judicial decisions.
The ICC has jurisdiction over genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression, subject to the requirements and conditions established under the Rome Statute.
Sesay also highlighted the importance of the December meeting of the Assembly of States Parties, the ICC’s oversight and legislative body. The meeting provides a platform for member states to discuss the Court’s operations, governance and broader international criminal justice priorities.
Sierra Leone’s position underscores the need to strengthen domestic judicial institutions while maintaining international partnerships to combat impunity and promote accountability.
The key challenge is to translate these commitments into practical measures that enhance the capacity of national courts, protect victims and ensure credible accountability for serious crimes, regardless of the identity or status of those accused.