No Reform Without Accountability
By Basita Michael, Esq
The recent launch of the Justice Sector and Reform Strategy 2024-2030 by His Excellency the President marks yet another ambitious effort to transform Sierra Leone’s justice system. On paper, this new strategy promises much-needed reforms aimed at ensuring equal access to justice, improving case management, and enhancing the rule of law. But like many citizens, I find myself approaching this announcement with a sense of scepticism, rather than excitement. Why? Because, as we’ve seen time and time again, reform without accountability is nothing more than a hollow exercise.
I make bold to say that in Sierra Leone, we do not live under the rule of law; we live under the rule of men. It is the power of political alliances and the influence of party politics that often determine when, how, and who is held accountable. This sad reality leaves many citizens disillusioned with the justice system, knowing that powerful individuals and corrupt politicians are seldom held to account for their actions.
Without rehashing the ugly details of our past, it is clear that abuses of office, corruption, and misconduct have been rampant within successive governments. And yet, those responsible are rarely brought to justice. Instead, they are exonerated, protected by the very institutions meant to hold them accountable. While justice may indeed be a work in progress, and reform of the justice sector is undeniably a noble cause, we must confront the truth. The real issue is not the absence of reform strategies but the lack of accountability for those in positions of power.
We have been presented with countless strategies before, all promising to right the wrongs of our justice system. Yet, these promises remain unfulfilled. Too often, our governments have failed to comply with the very strategies they proudly announce. Until we can ensure that accountability extends to the powerful and those in office, no reform, no matter how well-intentioned, will succeed.
The time has come to move away from the illusion that justice reform lies in the launch of yet another strategic document. Instead, we must focus on concrete actions that address the injustices that continue to afflict our citizens. Justice reform will only be meaningful when it holds everyone—regardless of their status—accountable under the law.
Let us not deceive ourselves into thinking that the solution lies in grand launches and well-crafted speeches. True justice will only come when we commit to real, tangible actions that repair the injustices of the past and present. Until then, no strategy will be worth the paper it is written on.
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