Sierra Leone Begins Ratification Process for African Human Rights Court Protocol

Sierra Leone has taken a significant step towards strengthening its commitment to human rights by commencing the ratification process of the Protocol establishing the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights.

A paper seeking parliamentary ratification of the Protocol to the African Charter on the Establishment of the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights was laid before Parliament by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mr. Alpha Sesay, marking the beginning of Sierra Leone's formal process to become a State Party to the continental human rights mechanism.

The move comes as Africa commemorates the 20th anniversary of the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights, with Sierra Leone using the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to promoting justice, accountability, and the protection of fundamental human rights across the continent.

Once ratified, Sierra Leone will join other African nations that have formally recognized the Court's role in strengthening the enforcement of human rights obligations under the African Charter.

The parliamentary process is expected to pave the way for the country's accession to one of Africa's key judicial institutions dedicated to safeguarding human and peoples' rights.