By Joseph Momoh, D.S
Liberia has tapped Sierra Leone’s judicial expertise as it moves to establish a War and Economic Crimes Court, with the Judiciary of Sierra Leone pledging full support.
The pledge was made on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, when a high-level Liberian delegation met senior officials of Sierra Leone’s Judiciary at the Chief Justice’s Chambers in Freetown.
Receiving the delegation on behalf of Chief Justice Komba Kamanda, Court of Appeal Judge Justice Jamesina E.L. King described Liberia’s plan as laudable and assured the team that Sierra Leone is ready to share its experience.
Justice King referenced the shared civil war history of both nations and Sierra Leone’s experience with the Special Court for Sierra Leone — set up by the Government of Sierra Leone and the United Nations to prosecute those bearing greatest responsibility for wartime atrocities.
She cautioned, however, that such a court demands adequate resources, sustained commitment and strong national ownership to succeed.
She also pointed to Sierra Leone’s handling of economic crimes through specialized mechanisms such as the Anti-Corruption Court, where experienced judges preside over corruption-related cases.
Justice John Bosco Allieu of the Court of Appeal stressed accountability and healing after conflict, noting that while the wars have ended, the human cost cannot be undone. “Many people were maimed and disabled as a result of the war,” he said.
High Court Judge Justice Isata Susan Sellu Tucker urged the Liberian team to engage further with relevant institutions to deepen their understanding of Sierra Leone’s transitional justice journey.
Head of Liberia’s Office of War Crimes, Rev. Amnimadab K. John, thanked the Judiciary for the engagement and highlighted the role of religious leaders in Liberia’s initiative, stressing the value of learning from Sierra Leone.
The engagement forms part of growing cooperation between the two countries on transitional justice, accountability and efforts to address war and economic crimes.
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