By: Abdulai sahid Jalloh-De Diplomatic-Diplomat, Expert in International Relations,Diplomacy, Service deliver & UN Peacekeeping.
Francis Ben Kaifala, born on October 14, 1983, in Pendembu, Kailahun District, Eastern Sierra Leone, is a distinguished legal professional and the current Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Sierra Leone. He holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone, and was called to the Sierra Leone Bar in 2007, having excelled as the “Star Pupil” in his Bar examinations. Furthering his education, he earned an LL.M in Law and Economics from Queen Mary University of London and another LL.M in Comparative Constitutional Law and International Human Rights from the University of Texas at Austin as a Fulbright Scholar.
Francis Ben Kaifala, as the head of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Sierra Leone, has indeed proven to be a key pillar in President Bio’s government. His unwavering commitment to fighting corruption, upholding transparency, and ensuring accountability has earned him a distinguished reputation. His performance is marked by resilience, objectivity, and a steadfast alliance with President Bio’s vision for a corruption-free Sierra Leone.
Kaifala’s leadership has not only strengthened institutional reforms but also restored public trust in governance. His obedience to due process, dedication to justice, and fearless approach to tackling corruption have positioned him as a beacon of hope for the nation. With his outstanding work, he has become an icon of integrity and good governance, making a significant impact in Sierra Leone’s development journey.
Prior to his appointment as ACC Commissioner in June 2018, Kaifala co-founded and served as the Senior/Managing Partner at the law firm Kaifala, Kanneh & Co. He also lectured in the Law Department at Fourah Bay College. His tenure at the ACC has been marked by significant strides in combating corruption:
Legislative Reforms: He spearheaded amendments to the Anti-Corruption Act of 2008, introducing stiffer penalties, enhanced witness protection, and a more efficient asset declaration regime.
International Recognition: Under his leadership, Sierra Leone improved its standing in various global anti-corruption indices. Notably, the country advanced in the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index, moving from 129th position in 2018 to 115th in 2021.
Awards and Honors: In recognition of his efforts, Kaifala was honored with the U.S. Department of State International Anti-Corruption Champions Award in 2021.
Additionally, he and the ACC received the Education Champion Awards in 2023 for their contributions to integrity in the educational sector.
Leadership Roles: He served as the President of the Network of Anti-Corruption Institutions in West Africa (NACIWA) and was elected as a Board Member of the African Union Advisory Board on Corruption.
Kaifala’s tenure has also seen the establishment of a special Anti-Corruption division within the High Court of Sierra Leone, expediting the prosecution of corruption cases. His proactive engagement with the public through lectures and town hall meetings has furthered the ACC’s outreach and education efforts.
In June 2023, President Julius Maada Bio reappointed Kaifala for another five-year term as ACC Commissioner, acknowledging his impactful leadership and the significant progress made in the fight against corruption.Francis Ben Kaifala is a distinguished legal expert and the Commissioner of Sierra Leone’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). Appointed in 2018, he has led a transformative fight against corruption, earning national and international recognition. Under his leadership, Sierra Leone improved significantly in global anti-corruption rankings, and key legislative reforms strengthened the ACC’s powers. His tenure has been marked by high-profile prosecutions, increased public engagement, and institutional reforms that have enhanced transparency and accountability.
Kaifala’s efforts have earned him prestigious accolades, including the U.S. International Anti-Corruption Champion Award. His commitment to integrity and governance has positioned him as a beacon of hope in President Bio’s administration, ensuring a more accountable and corruption-free Sierra Leone.
