By Hassan Juana Koroma in Pujehun
After a two-year hiatus, the High Court has resumed sittings in Pujehun, with Honourable Justice Francis Banks Kamara presiding over a two-week intensive court session.
This initiative, supported by Chief Justice Komba Kamanda, aims to enhance access to justice in the district.
Justice Banks Kamara commenced the session with a strong message of assurance to residents, emphasizing the importance of speedy access to justice as a fundamental right in a democratic society.
He expressed confidence that, with cooperation from all parties involved, the session would fulfill its objectives of serving justice efficiently.
“We aim to ensure that cases do not exceed three months for a verdict to be delivered,” said Justice Kamara, while urging the youth to refrain from criminal activities, highlighting that many accused individuals are between the ages of 18 and 30.
Paramount Chief representative Jinnah Salia expressed his delight at the court’s return, noting that it had been nearly two years since the last sitting in February 2023. He extended his gratitude to Justice Kamanda for facilitating this session and commended Justice Banks Kamara for educating the community about the judicial process.
Similarly, the Officer Commanding Pujehun Correctional Centre, Augustine Songu, reported that many inmates had been awaiting their hearings since 2023.
He raised concerns about overcrowding at the center, which houses over 150 inmates, well above its capacity of 75. He appealed to the judge to help alleviate their caseload.
A total of 42 accused individuals are appearing before the court, facing various charges, including sexual penetration and wounding with intent.
Burglar, Conspiracy Housebreaking and larceny, rape Attempted human trafficking
Among the notable cases, Mustapha Sawanneh, age 22, was sentenced to five years for larceny, while Idrissa Kargbo, also 22, received a ten-year sentence as a power-saw operator. Other sentences included seven years for Moses Amara for wounding with intent and ten years for Naffie Kamara for housebreaking and larceny.
Justice Kamara also granted bail to several accused individuals, including Abdulai Jasal Sillah (39), who was discharged for causing grievous bodily harm, and others facing lesser charges.
The proceedings mark a pivotal step towards restoring faith in the judicial system in Pujehun.
As the session continues, stakeholders remain hopeful that justice will be served and that the community will benefit from a more accessible legal framework. The prosecution is led by State Counsel A. Sheku, with the accused represented by J.J. Harris.
The court’s commitment to transparency and education in the legal process reflects a progressive approach to justice in Sierra Leone.
