WAFA writes Chief Justice

The West Africa Youth Assembly –Sierra Leone has written a letter to the country’s Chief Justice Hon. Justice Komba Kamanda demanding for a speedy trial in the matter between Jaffer Husein Zeghir and Leon Oil which has taken close to four years in the court.

WAFA Executive Director, Ibrahim H. Kamara expressed frustration over the protracted delay on the case while calling on the Chief Justice to speedily look into it as cases of such nature has the tendency to destroy the image and credibility of the judiciary.

For ease of reference, please the letter verbatim….

WEST AFRICA YOUTH ASSEMBLY SIERRA LEONE

 

 

71 Soldier Street, Freetown

+232 76 313 433

16 June 2025

The Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda

Chief Justice of Sierra Leone

Law Courts Building, Sierra Leone Judiciary

Subject: Urgent Concerns Regarding the LeonOil Company v. Jaffar Case and the Integrity of the Judicial System

Your Honour,

I am writing to express profound concern regarding the protracted legal proceedings in LeonOil Company v. Jaffar, currently before the Court of Appeal.  This case, originating in the High Court, has suffered significant delays and a demonstrable failure to enforce court orders.  Despite High Court rulings and orders, these have not been enforced, hindering the case’s progress.

This case, alongside others with similar patterns, significantly harms the reputation of the Sierra Leonean justice system internationally. The perceived inability of the courts to enforce their orders, coupled with allegations of manipulation and procedural delays intended to benefit specific parties, erodes public trust and fosters a climate of impunity.

My attention was drawn to the problematic encounter between Mr. Ibrahim Cole, General Manager of LeonOil Company, and the Chief Minister, Mr. David Sengeh, following Mr. Ibrahim’s failure to comply with a High Court order, specifically concerning a payment of Le6,000,000,000 (Six Billion Leones) into a joint account as ordered by the High Court.  Public praise for Mr. Ibrahim, without corresponding enforcement action, raises serious questions about the integrity of the judicial process.  While I avoid implying interference, your esteemed administration should thoroughly investigate potential improprieties that undermine court orders.  Furthermore, the Court of Appeal has ordered a payment of Le3,000,000 (Three Million Leones) by LeonOil Company which, to date, has not been fulfilled.

Your recent appointment, given your extensive experience and record, offers a crucial opportunity for reform. Your known commitment to the rule of law inspires confidence. I trust that under your leadership, the judiciary will unequivocally uphold justice and accountability.  Sierra Leone cannot afford to become a haven for those who manipulate the legal system.

The timely and just resolution of LeonOil Company v. Jaffar, and the effective enforcement of all court orders, is vital to restoring public confidence and upholding Sierra Leone’s obligations under the rule of law.  I trust your Honour will take immediate steps to address these serious concerns and restore the integrity of the Sierra Leonean justice system.

Sincerely,

…………………………………

Ibrahim H. Kamara

Chairman, West Africa Youth Assembly Sierra Leone

Executive Director, Youth Savers Sierra Leone

Executive Director, Smart Green Solutions SL

Former [List relevant positions in a concise, impactful manner, e.g., Secretary General, Human Rights Defender Network, Kambia District]