By Aaron Parker
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice Mohamed Lamin Tarawalley led a delegation of key justice sector institutions at the Civic Festival, showcasing their efforts in promoting good governance, civic education, and peacebuilding in Sierra Leone. The delegation included representatives from the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Law Reform Commission, Legal Aid Board, Office of the Ombudsman, Office of the Administrator General, and the Justice Sector Coordination Unit. Speaking during the event at the Ministry’s booth, the Attorney General emphasized the vital role of these institutions in Sierra Leone’s development. He noted that their contributions are critical to fostering peace, advancing good governance, and ensuring justice for all citizens. The showcase served to demonstrate how these agencies are integral to national progress and stability.
“Our justice sector institutions are pillars of democracy and peacebuilding. Their work reflects our commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity,” the Attorney General remarked. He also highlighted the ongoing constitutional review process, describing it as a transformative step toward modernizing the nation’s governance framework. The constitutional review is our next step forward,” he declared. He underscored the need for a revised constitution that reflects Sierra Leone’s evolving demographics, economy, and social dynamics, ensuring the legal framework remains robust and relevant to contemporary challenges.
The Attorney General also highlighted the inclusive nature of the review process, which has involved consultations with over 10,000 citizens, including women, youth, and local leaders, as well as contributions from government agencies, religious groups, and experts. The Attorney General emphasized the key benefits of constitutional reform, including strengthening democratic governance by reinforcing principles,
safeguarding the rule of law, and protecting human rights to ensure lasting peace and prosperity. Additionally, the reform promotes inclusivity by enshrining protections for marginalized groups, ensuring youth participation, and upholding minority rights to foster social cohesion and enable all citizens to contribute to and benefit from national development. Since President Julius Maada Bio appointed him as Attorney General, there have been notable transformations across the justice sector. These include enhanced access to legal aid, reforms in governance, and improvements in the dispensation of justice. The Attorney General commended the collaborative efforts of the justice sector institutions in achieving these milestones. He concluded by urging Sierra Leoneans to support the constitutional review process, emphasizing its potential to shape a better future for the nation. “This is not just about today; it is about planning our future and our children’s future,” he asserted.
