The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court of Justice, in collaboration with the Office of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice of Sierra Leone, commenced a four-day intensive training session for State Attorneys at the Special Court Complex, New England Ville beginning on July 28th, 2025.
Justice Sengu Koroma, Vice President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice and a distinguished envoy of Sierra Leone, delivered his remarks, underlining the importance of the forward-looking initiative.
He acknowledged that a pivotal request from the Attorney General and Minister of Justice was met with deep appreciation, signifying a renewed pledge to fulfil their responsibilities under the revised ECOWAS Treaty.
He explained that the backdrop inspired the development of a comprehensive program designed to meet outlined objectives and foster a collaborative network aimed at strengthening ties between the ECOWAS Court of Justice and Sierra Leone.
Justice Koroma reassured that his concerns were alleviated by steadfast support from the Attorney General, his Deputy, and the Director of Public Prosecutions, whose prior active engagement with the Court’s mission predates his own appointment; and that their invaluable contributions have been instrumental in translating such a vision into reality, and he extended his sincere gratitude.
He praised the government’s decision to seek support at such a pivotal juncture, by empowering legal practitioners.
He assured the Court’s ongoing commitment to educating member states on regional law and jurisprudence, which continues to evolve through each session.
He urged all participants to maximize the opportunity to deepen their expertise, also advocating for the development of effective communication channels that embody the true essence of the Community Court of Justice, fostering camaraderie and cooperation.
Osman Kanu, Director of Public Prosecutions, shed light on the origins and expansion of ECOWAS’s judicial authority. He clarified that initially established virtually to resolve disputes among member states, the Court’s jurisdiction has since widened considerably.
Director underscored that human rights are held in the highest regard by the state a sensitive yet crucial issue demanding careful management. The Court’s authority now encompasses nearly every dimension of daily life concerning fundamental liberties.
Addressing legal professionals, Osman Kanu noted the need for thorough preparation to defend the state effectively, as most cases before the Court are initiated against governments. He mentioned that the training is particularly timely, as Sierra Leone joins other ECOWAS nations benefiting from such capacity-building initiatives.
Kanu expressed hope that this exposure would enhance practitioners’ ability to defend national interests and advocate for human rights, affirming that the most potent defense hinges on the proactive safeguarding of these rights.
Alpha Sesay, Esq., Attorney General and Minister of Justice, expressed appreciation for the ECOWAS Court’s provision of free legal services. He urged practitioners to broaden their perspective beyond courtroom confines, viewing law as a catalyst for societal transformation.
He stressed that judicial decisions within regional mechanisms are instrumental in establishing vital legal standards that drive systemic reform. “These rulings have the capacity to bring about meaningful change within our legal frameworks and foster an environment where human rights are protected,” he asserted.
Minister Sesay highlighted the importance of strategic legal action and advocacy outside the courtroom to promote wider societal reforms. He maintained the government’s dedication to defending its actions legally while recognizing the need for broader reform efforts championed by civil society and legal professionals.
Aligning with the Ministry’s overarching mission, he assured that similar capacity-building programs would expand across various legal domains, cultivating a vibrant and responsive legal community. “We desire our legal practitioners to see their work not merely as a profession but as a noble calling an exciting and impactful journey of service.” He said, after these four days, I am confident this training will inspire and empower legal practitioners even further.
He applauded the dedication and active participation of all attendees, asserting that their collective efforts would play a vital role in building a justice system that champion human rights, foster reform, and prepare practitioners for excellence.
He encouraged delegates to leverage their understanding of the community’s socio-legal landscape, confident that their insights would significantly enrich the program.
He expressed optimism that the knowledge exchange during the workshop would yield mutual benefits.
Credit: Correspondent-Amara Kargbo
