By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr
Sierra Leone’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, H.E. Dr. Gberie, formally presented the country’s candidate for election to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Prof. Dr. Charles Chernor Jalloh, during a bilateral meeting with Bahrain’s Permanent Representative, H.E. Mr. Abdulla, in New York.
The meeting, held on the sidelines of ongoing United Nations engagements, focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Sierra Leone and Bahrain while addressing key issues on the international legal agenda.
During the discussions, Dr. Gberie formally introduced Prof. Dr. Jalloh as Sierra Leone’s nominee for the ICJ and highlighted his vision for the Court. He emphasized the importance of building a more inclusive, representative, and effective international judiciary that reflects the diversity of the UN membership while upholding the principles of fairness, accountability, and the rule of law.
Dr. Gberie also reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to multilateralism and the peaceful settlement of disputes, noting that Prof. Dr. Jalloh brings extensive expertise in international law, human rights, international criminal justice, and transitional justice. He described the nominee as well-qualified to contribute meaningfully to the work of the world’s highest judicial body.
In response, H.E. Mr. Abdulla welcomed the engagement and acknowledged Sierra Leone’s longstanding contributions to international law and global governance. The two diplomats discussed areas of mutual interest, including support for international institutions, cooperation within the United Nations system, and strengthening bilateral relations between Freetown and Manama.
The International Court of Justice, headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. It adjudicates legal disputes between states and provides advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorized UN organs and specialized agencies. Judges of the Court are elected by both the UN General Assembly and the UN Security Council.
Sierra Leone has continued to advocate for greater representation of African jurists on international judicial bodies, arguing that broader geographical representation enhances the legitimacy, credibility, and effectiveness of global institutions.
Reaffirming Sierra Leone’s support for Prof. Dr. Jalloh’s candidacy, Dr. Gberie stated that the nomination reflects the country’s unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and the advancement of international law. He expressed confidence that Bahrain and other UN member states would consider supporting the candidacy during the forthcoming ICJ elections.
Both Permanent Representatives concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to maintaining close coordination and dialogue as diplomatic engagements surrounding the ICJ elections continue.