By Shadrach Aziz Kamara
Following her unanimous approval by Parliament, newly appointed Supreme Court Judge Hon. Justice Fatmata Bintu Alhadi has expressed profound humility and gratitude, describing her appointment as both an honor and a significant responsibility.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the parliamentary session, Justice Alhadi said, “Before excitement, I must say I feel very humbled to be given this opportunity to serve in the Supreme Court of Sierra Leone, the highest court in the land. I’m grateful for the confidence reposed in me, and to hear the commendations from members of parliament who represent the voices of their constituencies truly humbles me.”
A seasoned legal expert, Justice Alhadi brings decades of experience to the bench. She has previously served as a High Court judge, a Court of Appeal justice, head of legal affairs at the Financial Intelligence Unit, and a state prosecutor in the Law Officers’ Department. She is widely respected for her integrity, legal expertise, and commitment to justice.
When asked about her judicial approach, she emphasized fairness, impartiality, and a focus on justice that serves ordinary Sierra Leoneans. “For me, all areas of the law are important—especially those that pertain to the people of Sierra Leone. We are here to listen to them, and justice must reflect what they seek: fairness, dignity, and equal treatment under the law.”
Justice Alhadi is also a longstanding member of LAWYERS (Legal Access for Women Yearning for Equality and Social Justice). She reaffirmed her dedication to championing women’s rights within the justice system. “We will continue to flag women’s issues in court and ensure they receive the attention they deserve. Women must know that the courts are accessible and responsive to their realities,” she said.
She thanked President Julius Maada Bio for her nomination and praised his efforts to promote women to leadership roles. “Representation at the highest levels of the judiciary is critical for progress and national balance,” she noted.
Her appointment comes at a time when the judiciary is undergoing reforms aimed at improving resources, modernization, and capacity-building. Both government and opposition MPs have called for stronger support to enable judges to deliver timely and effective justice.
Justice Alhadi is viewed not only as a jurist of exceptional caliber but also as a beacon of female leadership and professionalism. Her role on the Supreme Court bench carries the weighty task of upholding the Constitution and restoring public trust in Sierra Leone’s judiciary.
