PARLIAMENT APPROVES HON. JUSTICE FATIMATA BINTU ALHADI AS SUPREME COURT JUDGE

The Parliament of Sierra Leone has unanimously approved the appointment of Honourable Justice Fatimata Bintu Alhadi to the Supreme Court, following the debate and adoption of the Eleventh Report of the Committee on Appointments and Public Service on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The session was chaired by Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, Leader of Government Business.

Presenting the report, Hon. Nyuma outlined the extensive vetting process, which included a review of the nominee’s academic credentials, professional experience, tax compliance, and declared assets. He noted that the Committee’s recommendation was unanimous, affirming Justice Alhadi’s suitability for appointment to the apex court.

Seconding the motion, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, Opposition Whip from Kambia District, commended the nominee for her depth of leadership experience. He emphasized the need to improve conditions of service within the judiciary to ensure better performance and called for greater support for the judiciary to deliver on its mandate. Hon. Kamara also stressed the importance of empowering women, noting that such appointments contribute to gender equity in national institutions.

Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, also contributed to the debate, underscoring the judiciary’s constitutional role in interpreting the laws passed by Parliament. He referenced Section 138 of the 1991 Constitution, which highlights the necessity of providing competitive salaries and allowances for judges. He urged the timely disbursement of funds to the judiciary, noting that delays undermine judicial efficiency and public trust.

Chief Whip 2, Hon. Neneh Lebbie, expressed appreciation to President Julius Maada Bio for nominating a competent woman to serve on the highest court. She described Justice Alhadi as highly qualified and capable of performing her duties with diligence and impartiality.

Acting Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma, expressed confidence in the nominee’s ability to uphold the values of justice and constitutionalism. He called for the judiciary to adopt a self-accounting system to boost its autonomy and operational efficiency. He also advocated for greater gender balance in the judiciary, urging Parliament and the executive to work toward achieving 30% women’s representation on the bench.

Closing the debate, Hon. Nyuma emphasized the need for continued reform of the judiciary, including efforts to improve conditions of service and enhance public trust. He acknowledged public concerns surrounding judicial independence and reiterated President Bio’s commitment to maintaining the judiciary as a free and impartial arm of government. He concluded by highlighting the significance of reshaping the judiciary’s public image through transparency, accountability, and reform.

Hassan Bangura

SLENA Correspondent

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