On August 28, 2024, the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, under the leadership of Acting Chief Justice His Lordship Hon. Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke, marked a significant milestone by inaugurating two newly constructed Magistrate and High Court buildings in Bo. These new facilities aim to alleviate the backlog of cases in the Southern Region, offering a much-needed improvement to the judicial infrastructure.
During the inauguration ceremony, Acting Chief Justice Browne-Marke expressed his satisfaction in witnessing and participating in what he termed a momentous occasion. He highlighted the challenges previously faced by judges and magistrates, who had to conduct court sessions in poorly maintained facilities lacking essential amenities such as air conditioning and electricity.
The Acting Chief Justice commended Hon. Justice Abubakar Sannoh for his tireless efforts in managing cases across both Bo and Kenema without complaint, acknowledging his dedication to the judiciary.
The newly constructed court buildings feature modern amenities designed to enhance the delivery of justice, including spacious chambers for judges and magistrates, well-equipped offices for senior staff, and secure holding centers for both male and female inmates.
In his remarks, Augustine Sheku, State Counsel for the Southern Region, emphasized the importance of providing an enabling environment for effective justice delivery. He noted that the opening of these new court facilities is a clear indication that the judiciary is committed to ensuring justice is delivered efficiently and effectively.
Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Brima Kenneh also addressed the gathering, highlighting the positive impact these modern structures will have on the judiciary. He noted that the previous working conditions for judges and magistrates were far from ideal, hindering the swift resolution of cases and impacting overall policing efforts.
The Ministry of Works and Public Assets was represented by the Chief Engineer, who underscored the importance of adequate infrastructure in the justice sector. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to collaborating with the judiciary to replicate these improvements in other judicial districts, following similar successes in Kailahun.
The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting by Hon. Resident Minister South, Hon. Mohamed E.K Alie, alongside Paramount Chief Prince Lapia Boima IV of Kakua Chiefdom and other dignitaries, symbolizing the official opening of the new court buildings.
