Freetown: Sierra Leone's Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh officially opened the Statutory Meeting of the ECOWAS Judicial Council on Thursday at the Atlantic Lumley Hotel, welcoming Chief Justices and regional delegates to Freetown. He described the gathering as historic and a clear sign of deepening regional cooperation in justice delivery. 'We are very happy to see you here today among us,' Jalloh said, noting that their presence reflected a shared duty to uphold the rule of law, strengthen institutions, and maintain judicial credibility.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the vice president stressed that justice must be people-centred in order to build public trust in legal systems. 'They require justice systems that are not only functional, but responsive, accessible, and resilient,' he said. He warned that rising cross-border crimes demand stronger unity among ECOWAS member states. 'Cooperation is not optional. Cooperation is essential,' Jalloh added, calling for deeper collaboration across regional judiciaries.
Linking justice to regional stability amid growing economic and security challenges, he said: 'The key to stability is law and order.' He noted that the courts remain central to peace, development, and public confidence before declaring the meeting officially open.
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., highlighted Sierra Leone's ongoing legal reforms, including the abolition of the death penalty and the introduction of new rights-based laws. He said the country was shifting 'from justice for the few to justice for all,' emphasizing fairness and access to justice.
Sesay also underscored the regional impact of judicial work, stating: 'The decisions reached here will impact the lives of over 400 million people.' He called for stronger coordination among member states to ensure predictable and trusted justice systems that support integration and development.
Speaking on behalf of the ECOWAS Commission President, Dr. Habibu Yaya Bappah reaffirmed the Commission's support for regional judicial institutions. He described the ECOWAS Court of Justice as 'a beacon of hope for those seeking redress beyond national jurisdiction.' He noted progress in promoting human rights and accountability but warned of challenges such as limited resources and enforcement gaps.
'A strong, effective, and respected judicial institution is indispensable to advance regional integration, foster economic development, and ensure lasting peace and stability within ECOWAS,' Bappah said.