Is Vice President Justice Juldeh Jalloh Usurping Judicial Authority in the Fight Against the Kushpedemic?
According to various media outlets, including @awokonewspaper and journalist @LamranaAmadu , the Vice President @VP_Jalloh has instructed that individuals arrested in connection with Kush-related offences be denied bail, regardless of the circumstances. Furthermore, he has purportedly asserted that even if 150 lawyers represent them, they should not be granted bail, emphasizing a predetermined path of incarceration and sentencing. The VP is quoted as saying, “Over the weekend, we intercepted two containers and 7 people are in custody. They will never see sunlight, they will be charged and will be sentenced, and no amount of lawyer will take them out from where they are.”
Such pronouncements are deeply troubling on multiple fronts. Firstly, they represent a blatant overreach of executive authority into the domain of the judiciary. In a democratic society founded on principles of separation of powers, it is unacceptable for the executive branch to determine the granting of bail to accused persons. These functions are rightly within the purview of an independent judiciary, insulated from political influence and beholden only to the impartial application of the law.
Moreover, the Vice President’s statements betray a fundamental disregard for the presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of any fair and just legal system. Every individual accused of a crime is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. To preemptively declare guilt and prescribe punishment before due process has run its course is a gross violation of this principle and undermines the very fabric of justice.
Furthermore, the government’s approach to combating the kushpedemic must not come at the expense of fundamental human rights. While it is imperative to address the public health and security concerns posed by the illicit drug trade, doing so must be in accordance with established legal norms and respect for individual liberties. Denying bail, demanding sentencing without due process and shifting the burden of proof not only infringes upon the rights of the accused but also risks exacerbating social inequalities and perpetuating cycles of injustice.
In their public statements, government officials must advocate for the upholding of the principles of the rule of law and the protection of all individuals’ fundamental rights, regardless of the nature of their alleged crimes. Instead of evading legal procedures, let us confront the #kushpedemic using evidence-based measures that protect human dignity and promote social justice. Let us engage in open and honest debate, consult with experts, including public health and addiction specialists, as well as psychiatrists and psychologists, and collaborate to find practical solutions.
Sierraeye on Twitter. @sierraeyesalone
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