By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr
Julius Maada Bio has announced the establishment of an Independent Investigation Committee to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into allegations of wrongdoing and impropriety at the Sierra Leone Law School.
The committee is chaired by Justice (Rtd) Edmund Cowan and includes prominent legal professionals such as Osman S. Conteh, Nicky Spencer-Coker, and Victor I. Lansana, who will serve as members.
The committee’s mandate is to investigate allegations of misconduct at the law school and provide appropriate recommendations. It will also review the institution’s administrative and governance structures and propose reforms aimed at improving accountability and efficiency. In addition, the committee will identify any systemic weaknesses that may have contributed to the current concerns and recommend measures to promote transparency, fairness, and professionalism within the institution.
In a related development, the Anti-Corruption Commission has informed the President that its ongoing investigation into the law school will be suspended pending the outcome of the committee’s work. This decision is intended to prevent overlapping investigative processes and ensure a coordinated, independent, and comprehensive review.
The committee is expected to complete its work within eight weeks, after which it will submit a detailed report outlining its findings and recommendations to the President.
President Bio reiterated his firm commitment to strengthening the integrity of the legal profession and ensuring that the Sierra Leone Law School remains a credible and trusted institution. This move highlights the government’s determination to address institutional challenges through transparent and independent investigations, while promoting accountability and reform within key educational institutions.