Ecowas Court Holds Salone Accountable for Multiple Human Rights Violation

Advocaid and the Institute for Human Rights Development in Africa (IHRDA) are pleased to celebrate a pivotal judgment by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Community Court of Justice in the “Mohamed Morlu v. Republic of Sierra Leone” case.

The court held Sierra Leone accountable for violating multiple rights under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Convention Against Torture (CAT).

Consequently, Sierra Leone has been ordered to compensate Mr. Morlu, marking a significant stride in the battle for police accountability and setting a crucial precedent for defining torture in the context of protests.

Mr. Morlu filed the case in August 2022 with the backing of Advocaid and IHRDA, asserting that Sierra Leone breached his rights to personal security and freedom from torture. These violations occurred when police shot him in the abdomen during a peaceful student protest in Bo in March 2017. The state further infringed on his right to a remedy by failing to effectively investigate and prosecute those responsible for the shooting.

In response to the judgment, Mr. Morlu expressed his relief, stating, “After seven years of living with the echoes of this painful incident with no one being held responsible, I am relieved and grateful for the ECOWAS Court’s decision. This victory gives hope to other victims of police brutality that justice is attainable.”

Eleanor Thompson, legal counsel for Mr. Morlu, highlighted the broader significance of the case, stating, “This case wasn’t just about redressing the harm caused to Mr. Morlu; it aimed to remind the state of its obligations under numerous international human rights treaties that it has ratified while assessing systemic failures in law enforcement practices.”

Advocaid Executive Director, Ms. Alison French, praised the ECOWAS Court’s decision, affirming, “This judgment reaffirms the principle that no one is above the law, including law enforcement agencies. It sends a clear message that police violence and misconduct will not be tolerated, and the state must ensure that its law enforcement agents respect and protect the human rights of all civilians.”

IHRDA Executive Director, Emilia Stwingwa, echoed this sentiment, stating, “It sets a progressive standard for policing and human rights not only for Sierra Leone but also for the entire sub-region.” She emphasized the critical role of civil society in holding governments accountable and safeguarding human rights.

Advocaid and IHRDA remain steadfast in their commitment to advocating for the rights of all individuals, especially those vulnerable to human rights abuses. Through strategic litigation and advocacy efforts, these organizations continue to champion justice, equality, and accountability in Sierra Leone and beyond.