March 24, 2021
By: Francis F.M.Harding
Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Desmond Babatunde Edwards in a tribute ceremony held by the Judiciary of Sierra Leone on 23rd March at the Law Court Building in Freetown, said we are gathered here to pay a tribute to the formal Chief Justice of the Republic of Sierra Leone between the years of 1998 and 2002 Justice Desmond Luke. He said the formal Chief Justice was a politician who has served his country in various capacities. He said we should recognize the contribution made by the late Chief Justice.
Justice Nicolas Brown Marke in his statement said 36 years ago, the late Chief Justice came to the bench. He said in 1967 he was a mobilizer of event for Sierra Leoneans to gain the class of consciousness. He continues to say he was representing West III that covered Murray Town, Wilberforce, Aberdeen and Lumley and in 1977 he was the initiator of ‘clean the city campaign’. He said the late Chief Justice was the founder of a political party called National Unity Movement for the 1996 democratization in Sierra Leone. He was the one who founded the industrial court. He said he was fighting for decentralisation of the administration of the justice system in Sierra Leone. Justice Marke said they will fondly remember him for his good work that he did for the Judiciary.
When he was giving his tribute on behalf of Sierra Leone Bar Association, Pa-Momoh Fofanah Esq said he was a sportsman, he love the rule of law as he studied in London and he wanted to see the rule of law practice in Sierra Leone. He continues to say he was a shining beacon. He was appointed as ambassador assigned to various continues. Fofanah Esq said the late man was appointed Minister under Siaka Stevens’ regime. Pa-Momoh Fofanah said he took part of the drafting of the Country’s Constitution. He was appointed by President Kabbah in 1998 as the Chief Justice for the Republic of Sierra Leone, and retired from active service in 2002.
Francis Gabidon Esq said in his tribute that the late Chief Justice was a man of his words he protested against Sir Albert Margai, Brig. Juxon Smith, and the National Provisional Ruling Council. He said he was not happy with the Judiciary of Sierra Leone as he wanted to separate the office of the Anthony-General and Minister of Justice office.
Gelaga King Esq on behalf of the family appreciated the Judiciary of the Republic of Sierra Leone for the tremendous supports towards the bereaved family. Reflecting on the life of the late man said he was true and patriotic state man and a speaker of truth, defended the rule of law in this country and many other activities this remember him for. The book condolence was signed by the Judges, magistrate and lawyers.