AYV News, April 23, 2026
Sierra Leone yesterday hosted the opening ceremony of the ECOWAS Judicial Council, bringing together key stakeholders, regional representatives, and development partners to deliberate on the future of justice in West Africa.
Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio, described the event as a landmark moment that offers renewed hope for strengthening judicial systems across the region.
She noted that the gathering underscores growing confidence in Sierra Leone’s leadership, particularly under the stewardship of President Julius Maada Bio, who also serves as Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States.
The First Lady emphasised that hosting the high-level council meeting in Freetown was both a deliberate and symbolic decision, reflecting the country’s ongoing commitment to justice sector reform and regional cooperation.
Highlighting progress made in recent years, she pointed to several key legal and institutional reforms, including the enactment of the Criminal Procedure Act, the abolition of the death penalty, the repeal of the criminal libel law, and the passage of the Child Rights Act. She also referenced the criminalization of early child marriage, legislation she personally championed during her time in Parliament.
According to her, these reforms have significantly modernized Sierra Leone’s justice system, some addressing laws that had remained unchanged for more than six decades.
She further noted advances in gender empowerment and social inclusion, describing the reforms as unprecedented in the country’s recent history.
The First Lady concluded by expressing appreciation to ECOWAS, justice sector institutions, and all stakeholders who contributed to the successful hosting of the event, while calling for continued collaboration to build a system that inspires confidence across West Africa.
The ECOWAS Judicial Council meeting is expected to foster dialogue, strengthen cooperation, and promote reforms aimed at enhancing access to justice and the rule of law across member states.
