The Judiciary of Sierra Leone through the Judicial and Legal Training Institute (JLTI) with support from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has held a one-day training and orientation for jurors from Bo, Moyamba, Kenema, Mattru Jong and Kailahun.
The training aimed at ensuring effective service delivery in the administration of justice.
Delivering his opening address and welcome statement, Court of Appeal Judge, Hon. Justice Reginald Fynn who also doubles as the Deputy Director of (JLTI) welcomed all the participants and introduced the team from the Judiciary headed by Supreme Court Judge, Honourable Justice Alusine Sesay.
He assured participants that the orientation would be worthy of every effort, time and investment, assuring that the facilitators are well-resourceful to enrich every participant throughout the training.
In his keynote address on behalf of Chief Justice, Supreme Court Judge, Honourable Justice Alusine Sesay said as an administration, they’re very much concerned about the critical role of jurors in the administration of justice for which they see the need to more often than not, get them orientated on their roles and responsibilities in the Criminal Justice System.
“As a Judiciary, we’re very much aware and conscious of the fact that you play a very important role in the administration of justice,” adding that, “you’re partners in the administration of justice.”
He said the orientation serves as a reminder to jurors about their critical role in the administration of justice in order to ensuring effective service delivery.
The training covered the overview of jury service; history, origin and purpose of jury system; the administration, management and summoning of jurors; preparation and settlement of jurors list; general overview of criminal trial processes and procedures; empaneling of jurors; summing up and verdict; codes of ethics for jurors; the press and social media among others.
Supreme Court Judge, Hon. Justice Alusine Sesay and Court of Appeal Judge, Hon. Justice Monfred Sesay orientated the jurors on the overview, history and purpose of jury system.
This Master and Register of the High Court, Elaine Thomas Archibald and Head of the Sexual Offences Model Court, Patrick Abraham Sannah discussed the administration, management and summoning of jurors, preparation and settlement of jurors list.
The training which benefited over 60 jurors continues tomorrow in Makeni