The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has condemned the suspension of Supreme Court Justice A.B. Halloway, calling the decision “unjust” and a threat to judicial independence in Sierra Leone.
In a statement issued yesterday, CHRDI said the suspension followed a series of letters written by Justice Halloway in which he accused the Chief Justice of human rights violations, abuse of office, and maladministration within the judiciary.
According to CHRDI, instead of addressing the judge’s complaints, the authorities responded with an order confirming his suspension and announcing that he was under investigation.
“What’s the status of his complaints? These are serious concerns that the government has not provided any update on,” the organization asked in its release.
Justice Halloway is reported to have written three letters, including one that formally requested the establishment of an Ethics Committee to investigate the Chief Justice’s conduct. CHRDI says that request has not been acknowledged.
The group argues that suspending a judge without addressing his grievances undermines due process. It urged the government to revoke the suspension, investigate the judge’s allegations, and uphold constitutional guarantees of judicial independence.
“We believe Justice Halloway’s suspension is unjust and blatantly disregards his fundamental rights and dignity,” CHRDI stated.
The organization cited international standards, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees the right to a fair hearing before an impartial tribunal. It also pointed to Section 137 of Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution, which sets out procedures for disciplining judges and investigating allegations against judicial officers.
CHRDI warned that the move could erode public confidence in the judiciary if seen as retaliation against a sitting Supreme Court judge for raising internal concerns.
The statement also drew parallels with international cases, noting that the United Nations has previously expressed concern when judges in other countries, such as the Maldives, faced suspension without fair procedures.
“The integrity and independence of the judiciary are foundational to justice systems worldwide. Any disciplinary action against judges must adhere to principles of fairness, transparency, and respect for judicial autonomy,” CHRDI added.
The government has not yet publicly commented on the suspension or on Justice Halloway’s complaints.
