AYV News, May 26, 2025
The Opposition Chief Whip in Sierra Leone’s House of Parliament, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, has questioned the integrity of the country’s judicial system, stating that many citizens have lost faith in the judiciary due to rampant perversion of justice, where influence and wealth seem to determine legal outcomes.
He was speaking during the approval of appointed judges to various positions in the Well of Parliament, where he said the Sierra Leone judiciary is increasingly being viewed with scepticism by many citizens and that a widespread perception persists that justice is reserved for the wealthy, while the poor despite having rightful claims suffer under a flawed system.
Opposition Chief Whip began by commending the nominees, noting that their names and previous contributions were already familiar to many. While he expressed confidence in their qualifications, he stressed that the critical issue lies in their ability to reform and strengthen the judiciary.
He emphasised that as a leader, he has visited numerous correctional facilities and courtrooms to gather first-hand information. Shockingly, at the Bo Correctional Centre, he encountered a man who had been imprisoned for six years without trial a situation he said is common in many prisons across the country. This, he argued, is a clear example of delayed justice, which is tantamount to justice denied.
Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara warned the newly appointed judges that their integrity is under scrutiny. “Your role in society will determine your place in it,” he said, urging them to remain impartial and resist undue political influence. He reminded them that politicians often set the agenda, and any attempt to reject Judges under political pressure is a troubling precedent.
He appealed to the Judges to build a judicial system that serves all citizens equally, regardless of political affiliation, tribe, region, or economic status.
He acknowledged that the judiciary faces challenges such as limited resources and interference from higher authorities, but he urged the judges to let their actions redefine the system.
Expressing strong support for women in the judiciary, he stated that women often demonstrate greater resilience in speaking truth to power and are less susceptible to bribery, as they prioritise preserving their public image and integrity.
“Every other day, someone is crying for justice,” Opposition Chief Whip, lamenting the state of legal affairs in the country. He stressed that many underprivileged citizens are denied justice, and this deeply undermines the due process and public trust in the legal system, which often seems tied to wealth and influence.
In conclusion, the Opposition Chief Whip called on the youth to take national development seriously, emphasising that the future of Sierra Leone lies in their hands.
