By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International has applauded the Government of Sierra Leone for ratifying the Protocol establishing the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, describing the move as a significant step toward strengthening justice and accountability.
In a statement issued Wednesday, CHRDI said the ratification reaffirms Sierra Leone’s commitment to the rule of law, democratic governance, and the protection of citizens’ rights in line with continental human rights standards.
The organization noted that by joining the Protocol, the country has opened additional avenues for legal redress beyond national courts, giving citizens greater assurance that abuses of power, discrimination, and denial of justice can be challenged at a regional level.
CHRDI said the development provides civil society organizations with a stronger framework to advocate for rights, document violations, and support vulnerable communities.
It added that the ratification reinforces pressure on state institutions to uphold African human rights norms, promotes transparency, and expands access to justice for marginalized groups.
“This is not just a legal milestone. It is a public declaration that human dignity and accountability must remain at the heart of governance,” CHRDI stated.
The group urged government to translate the ratification into concrete action by fully implementing its human rights obligations and ensuring that justice systems are accessible to the poor and disadvantaged.
CHRDI called on government agencies, the judiciary, civil society, legal practitioners, development partners, and citizens to work together to raise awareness, strengthen legal protections, and deepen democratic accountability across the country.
The organization said the ratification should be used to improve everyday access to justice and to build public confidence in both national and regional human rights mechanisms.
The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International is a Sierra Leonean civil society organization focused on advocacy for human rights, democratic governance, and social justice.
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