Since President Julius Maada Bio took office in April 2018, the judiciary in Sierra Leone has undergone significant reforms. Courts are no longer swayed by political influence, and rulings are independent of outside directives. The signing of the MCC Compact has strengthened diplomatic ties between Sierra Leone and Western partners, with renewed commitments to justice sector reforms.

Under the leadership of Justice Babatunde Edwards, who served as Chief Justice until December 2023, the judiciary's credibility was largely restored. However, recent developments involving the case of diamond dealer Jihad Basma and two others have raised concerns.

Basma, along with two co-accused, is facing a preliminary investigation. Though they were granted bail by the High Court on August 29, 2024, the decision was reversed on October 2, 2024, and they were returned to custody until the conclusion of the investigation. Despite their regular court appearances and cooperation with travel restrictions, the sudden change in bail conditions has drawn attention.

Efforts were made to settle the dispute involving an alleged stolen diamond through mediation. Prominent figures from Kono district, including a Paramount Chief and members of the diamond trade, attempted to broker a resolution between Basma and the claimant, Benjamin Marrer. However, negotiations collapsed, leaving the matter to proceed in court.

Basma insists on his innocence and wishes for the case to continue legally, although he is reportedly under pressure to settle out of court. The shifting bail conditions and unresolved negotiations are beginning to affect public confidence in the judiciary.

Justice Momoh Jah-Stevens, who rescinded Basma’s bail, is seen as a respected figure, but concerns have emerged about potential external influences. The credibility of Sierra Leone’s judicial system now hangs in the balance, and it remains essential that justice is not only done but seen to be done in this case.