By Forum staff writer
President Dr Julius Maada Bio has presided over the swearing in of a Judicial Tribunal established to investigate the conduct of Hon Justice Allan Baami Halloway, calling on its members to uphold fairness impartiality and strict adherence to due process.
The ceremony marked a significant step in the ongoing efforts to strengthen accountability and integrity within Sierra Leone’s justice sector. Addressing members of the tribunal President Bio underscored the importance of the rule of law and reminded them that their responsibility carries serious national implications.
He described the establishment of the tribunal as a constitutional and institutional necessity aimed at safeguarding public confidence in the judiciary. According to the President the process must be guided solely by facts evidence and the law without fear favour or external influence.
“The task before you is weighty but it is essential to the credibility of our justice system. I am confident in your ability to conduct this investigation with fairness impartiality and full respect for due process,” President Bio stated.
He emphasized that judicial accountability does not undermine judicial independence but rather reinforces it by ensuring that judges remain bound by the highest ethical and professional standards. President Bio added that no individual regardless of status should be above the law and that constitutional processes must always be respected.
The three member tribunal is chaired by Justice Abdulai Masiyambay Bangura JSC a respected jurist with extensive experience in the judiciary. He is joined by Francis Gabbidon Esq and Oladipo Robin Mason both of whom bring legal expertise and professional integrity to the panel.
The tribunal was constituted pursuant to Section 137 subsection 5 paragraph a of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone which provides for the investigation of allegations of misconduct against superior court judges. The constitutional provision empowers the President to appoint a tribunal following advice and in accordance with established legal procedures.
Officials say the tribunal is expected to conduct a thorough and transparent inquiry into the allegations against Justice Halloway and to submit its findings within a timeframe consistent with constitutional and legal requirements. Its recommendations will guide subsequent decisions as provided by law.
Legal observers have described the move as a critical test of Sierra Leone’s commitment to judicial accountability and the rule of law. They note that properly conducted tribunals help reinforce public trust in state institutions while protecting the rights of those under investigation.
The Office of the President reiterated that the process is not punitive but investigative and that Justice Halloway will be accorded full opportunity to respond to the allegations in line with principles of natural justice.
The swearing in ceremony was attended by senior government officials members of the legal community and representatives of key state institutions. The event concluded with a renewed call for professionalism integrity and independence across all arms of government.
As the tribunal begins its work many citizens and legal practitioners will be watching closely seeing the process as a reflection of the nation’s resolve to uphold justice accountability and constitutional governance.
