Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice Komba Kamanda has urged the country’s Inter-Religious Council to champion peace and speak out boldly against actions that could threaten national stability, particularly as the country prepares for general elections in 2028.
Kamanda made the remarks on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Inter-Religious Council at his chambers in Freetown. The delegation was led by its president, Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles.
Discussions focused on national cohesion, justice delivery and the role of religious leaders in preventing tensions from escalating in the run-up to the next polls.
The chief justice called on the council to actively engage the public and stakeholders to discourage rhetoric or actions capable of undermining peace.
“Their presence and moral voice are timely and necessary,” Kamanda said, urging the council to condemn any individual or institution whose actions could cause unrest.
He expressed concern over what he described as growing polarization and hostility in the country, noting that public officials increasingly face disrespect and abusive language upon appointment.
“People no longer celebrate success but failures, and that is not a good sign for our nation or an inspiration to our children and younger generation,” he said.
On the judiciary, Kamanda reiterated its independence, particularly in cases involving political figures. He said that once a matter is before the court, judges are duty-bound to assess the merits and deliver decisions impartially, “without fear or favour.”
He encouraged the council to help resolve disputes before they escalate into legal battles and called for diplomatic efforts to address the long-standing border issue of Yenga.
Kamanda also assured the delegation of his commitment to tackling any misconduct within the judiciary and invited the council to report concerns for immediate action.
Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles congratulated Kamanda on his recent appointment as a judge of the Residual Special Court and praised reforms within the judiciary. He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to promoting peace and national unity and sought guidance on engaging constructively on politically sensitive matters.
The meeting was attended by several senior judicial officials and religious leaders, including Supreme Court Justice Alusine Sesay and Court of Appeal Justice Jamesina King.
