By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has raised serious concern over worsening overcrowding in the nation’s correctional centres, warning that the situation threatens both human rights and the integrity of the justice system.
The concerns were made public during the launch of the Commission’s latest nationwide assessment, Human Rights Behind Bars, held at J.C. Hall in Freetown. The report, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), followed an extensive monitoring exercise conducted in 20 correctional facilities across all five regions of the country between 2 and 24 September 2025.
According to the HRCSL, overcrowding remains the most critical challenge, with facilities holding far more inmates than they were designed to accommodate. The report identifies a lack of proper classification and separation of detainees, delays in indictment, and prolonged trial periods as major contributors to the congestion. Many inmates continue to remain in custody simply because they are unable to meet bail or pay fines, the Commission revealed.
The Director of Policy, Planning, and Legal Services at the Sierra Leone Correctional Service, Lamin Bangura, admitted that the system is struggling to cope. He noted that the current conditions undermine inmate welfare and place additional strain on officers. “Many of our correctional centres are struggling with overcrowding, sanitation constraints, and logistical shortages. The issues affect not only the welfare of inmates but also the safety and effectiveness of our officers,” Bangura said.
The report also sheds light on insufficient access to food, toiletries, and rehabilitation opportunities. These challenges are particularly pronounced among female inmates, especially those incarcerated outside Freetown and Kailahun, where support services and vocational training are scarce.
UNDP’s Senior Rule of Law and Human Rights Officer, Alie B. Sesay, commended the Commission for addressing what he termed a “necessary but difficult” national issue. He stressed that the publication confronts realities that are often neglected. “By shedding light on the conditions within correctional facilities, the HRCSL helps us confront issues that are often hidden, sensitive, and uncomfortable, but essential to justice and human rights,” he noted.
Vice Chairperson of the HRCSL, Victor Idrissa Lansana Esq., called on the government to act with urgency. He emphasized that the findings are a wakeup call for all Sierra Leoneans. “This report brings out concerns that should matter to every citizen. That is why the government must take its findings and recommendations very seriously,” Lansana urged.
Responding to the report, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, David Fortune, acknowledged the depth of the challenges and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing them. He stressed that reforming correctional centres is vital to national development. “No nation can claim progress if its correctional centres remain behind,” he said.
The HRCSL’s report concludes with recommendations aimed at reducing overcrowding, improving living conditions, and ensuring that justice processes are timely and fair. The Commission hopes that its findings will serve as a catalyst for sustained and comprehensive reform within Sierra Leone’s correctional system.
