The Ombudsman of the Republic of Sierra Leone Tejan Ahmed Israel Jah, Esq. in continuation of his Courtesy visits to Ministries, Departments and Agencies and Statutory Institutions has paid a visit to the Acting Chief Justice of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Hon. Mr. Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke at his Office at the Law Courts Building in Freetown.

The Ombudsman congratulated Justice Browne-Marke on his appointment as Acting Chief Justice. He noted that the Office of the Ombudsman has a good working relationship with the Judiciary and has been a good partner in the fight against injustice occasioned by Maladministration. He noted that the office regularly receives complaint from members of the public on issues relating to the attitude of court officers, the absence of Magistrates and Judges in some Judicial Districts, the long periods inmates take in remand without trial, delays in court sittings by Magistrates and Judges, etc.

In response, the Acting Chief Justice said that the Judiciary has had a long standing relationship with the Ombudsman’s Office and that they have always been supportive of the office. He noted that the Judiciary has been working to decongest the Correctional Centers around the Country, as the care for detainees is the primary concern for the Judiciary.

Justice Browne-Marke, noted that the Judicial week was introduced to ensure that detainees do not stay longer in detention without trial. He further noted that the Judiciary is taking steps to cure its deficiencies. He told the Ombudsman that they are currently working to introduce suspended sentences as against custodial sentences. He noted that the Judiciary is working toward creating fairness for all. He pledged the Judiciary’s continued support and collaboration with the Office of the Ombudsman.

Communications Dept.
Office of the Ombudsman
076-945-926