NEW YORK, 30th October 2026– Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes while renewing its campaign for the election of Professor Charles Chernor Jalloh to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York during discussions on the report of the International Court of Justice, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, said Sierra Leone’s own experience of emerging from conflict had demonstrated that lasting peace can only be achieved through justice and respect for the rule of law.
Speaking as the Court marks its 80th anniversary, Swaray called on member states to continue supporting the ICJ by respecting its decisions, ensuring it has adequate resources to carry out its mandate, and promoting equal access to justice for all nations, regardless of size or economic strength.
The Foreign Minister also used the opportunity to reaffirm Sierra Leone’s endorsement of Professor Charles Chernor Jalloh for election to the world’s highest judicial body for the 2027-2036 term.
He described Jalloh as a highly accomplished legal scholar whose experience on the International Law Commission and expertise in both common law and civil law systems would bring a valuable and diverse perspective to the Court.
With the ICJ elections scheduled for 3 November, Swaray expressed gratitude for the support already received from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union (AU) and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). He also appealed to UN member states to back Jalloh’s candidature.
The minister stressed that Sierra Leone remains firmly committed to a rules-based international order where disputes are resolved through legal mechanisms rather than conflict, and where the voices of all nations are respected and heard.
His remarks underscored Freetown’s continued support for multilateralism, international justice and the strengthening of institutions dedicated to the peaceful resolution of global disputes.
