By Forum staff writer
A new State of Democracy in Sierra Leone Assessment 2025 has revealed widespread public dissatisfaction with the countryโs justice system, with many citizens believing that fairness is often out of reach for ordinary people.
The report, conducted jointly by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance for Africa and West Asia and the National Commission for Democracy, with support from the European Union, presents a troubling picture of a legal system struggling with delays, inequality, and declining trust.
One of the most concerning findings is that 51 percent of the prison population in Sierra Leone consists of pre trial detainees. Many of these individuals reportedly spend between three and five years in detention before their cases are heard. For those unable to afford bail, especially young people and low income citizens, this translates into prolonged detention without conviction.
Testimonies gathered during the assessment highlight the human impact behind the statistics. At a focus group discussion in Bo, participants recounted the case of a student who remained in a juvenile correctional center for months because his case was never called in court. He was only released after the intervention of a senior government official. According to the report, such incidents are not isolated but reflect deeper systemic challenges.
Public perception of law enforcement also remains a major concern. The report indicates that 75 percent of Sierra Leoneans believe the police are corrupt, while 44 percent doubt that court cases will be handled fairly. Although Afrobarometer data shows some improvement in perceptions of judicial corruption, declining from 47 percent in 2015 to 36 percent in 2025, overall confidence in the system remains fragile.
Across various communities, respondents expressed the view that outcomes in legal cases are often influenced by social status, political connections, and financial strength. Many believe that individuals with resources can navigate the system more easily, while those without means face significant barriers in seeking justice.
Another critical issue identified is the weak enforcement of court verdicts. Even when judgments are delivered, failure to enforce them consistently has further eroded public trust. Participants in the assessment repeatedly raised concerns that justice is not only delayed but in many cases effectively denied.
Doubts about the independence of the judiciary are also evident at the political level. The opposition All Peopleโs Congress declined to challenge the 2023 election results in the Supreme Court, citing concerns about possible political influence within the judiciary. This development, the report suggests, reflects broader skepticism about the impartiality of key institutions.
Throughout the consultations, participants frequently pointed to the role of money in influencing legal processes. Some claimed that payments are often required to speed up cases or secure favorable outcomes, leaving those without financial means at a disadvantage.
The findings underscore a justice system facing significant credibility challenges. Idriss Mamoud Tarawallie of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance stated that access to justice remains deeply unequal, noting that many citizens feel excluded from fair legal protection.
The report calls for urgent reforms to rebuild confidence in the system. Recommendations include improving case management, strengthening enforcement of court decisions, and ensuring greater independence of the judiciary from political pressure.
Observers say restoring public trust will require sustained commitment from both state institutions and civil society to ensure that justice is accessible, fair, and timely for all Sierra Leoneans
