AdvocAid Sierra Leone

20/05/2026

AdvocAid was featured in yesterday’s The Guardian’s global development article discussing concerns around freedom of expression and the use of public order laws in Sierra Leone.

The article highlighted comments from our Legal Manager, Willietta Hughes on the sentencing of entertainer and political figure Zainab Sheriff and the wider implications for civic space and free expression.

“The law is being utilised as a weapon against people who speak up.”

We remain committed to advocating for justice systems that protect rights, uphold fairness, and ensure women’s voices are not silenced.



https://shorturl.at/TTcNE

Opposition figure Zainab Sheriff unjustly sentenced to four years in prison for incitement and threatening language, say activists

18/05/2026

This May, we are spotlighting stories that show why fair trial rights matter.

In 2014, Isatu (name changed to protect her identity), a 22-year-old mother of one, was arrested and charged with the murder of her boyfriend following allegations surrounding his death.

Her case quickly became the subject of intense media coverage and public criticism, threatening her right to a fair trial. AdvocAid ensured she received legal representation throughout the proceedings despite significant public pressure.

Her story highlights why access to legal representation and fair trial rights must be protected for everyone.

15/05/2026

This May, we are spotlighting stories of women in contact with the law.

Fatmata (name changed to protect her identity), a mother of three, was detained awaiting indictment after being accused in a theft case connected to her workplace.

During this time, AdvocAid provided legal support, welfare supplies, and legal education to ensure she understood her rights and was not left unsupported in detention.

Access to justice also means ensuring dignity, information, and support for women awaiting trial.

13/05/2026

This May, we are spotlighting stories of women and girls in contact with the law.

Mustapha and Aminata (names changed to protect their identities) were detained for over 22 days without charge after becoming suspects in a neighbour’s death. Aminata was just 16 years old. During detention, she became ill and missed important school exams.

AdvocAid stepped in to monitor the situation, advocate for their release, and ensure Aminata received medical attention and welfare support.

Their story reminds us that access to justice also means protecting people’s rights while they are in detention.

05/05/2026

This May, we are spotlighting stories of women in contact with the law, both past and present.

MK (name changed to protect her identity) was arrested in 2003 and spent 8 years in prison, including 6 years on death row, for a crime she did not commit. Without legal support, she faced a system that failed to protect her rights at every stage.

With dedicated legal support, her case was eventually overturned and she was released.

Her story is a reminder of why access to justice matters, and why AdvocAid’s work continues.

30/04/2026

📌 April was all about Justice in Practice.

At AdvocAid, this means more than words. It means challenging discriminatory laws and supporting marginalized communities every day.

For women who have been in contact with the law, justice is often shaped by their experiences in detention, access to legal support, and how they are treated within the system. These experiences matter.

We believe justice should be fair, humane, and accessible to all, not just in principle, but in practice.

29/04/2026

Last month, AdvocAid welcomed Fambul and the Mott Foundation for a visit to our work in Freetown.

The day included a visit to the female correctional centre and a meeting with our team to share experiences and strengthen collaboration.

Partnerships play a vital role in what we do. By working together, we are able to expand access to justice, support women in detention, and advocate for lasting change.

23/04/2026

Did you know that in Sierra Leone, someone can be arrested simply for being in a public place without giving a “good account” of themselves?

These loitering laws come from colonial-era “vagrancy” offences and often target the most vulnerable, punishing poverty instead of protecting people.

In November 2024, the ECOWAS Court of Justice ruled these laws discriminatory and called for change.

AdvocAid continues to push for a system that respects dignity, protects rights, and serves everyone fairly.



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5 likes, 3 comments. "Police Case II: Episode 2 - Loitering"

14/04/2026

In practice, even minor offences can lead to prolonged detention and serious consequences especially for women without legal support. What should be a simple process can become weeks or months of uncertainty, affecting families and futures.
Justice should always be fair, timely, and proportionate.

10/04/2026

The perception of the justice system and reality are often very different. Understanding this gap is key to advocating for meaningful change.

What people think happens in court vs reality:
Expectation: Quick resolution
Reality: Multiple adjournments

Expectation: Legal support
Reality: Often none

09/04/2026

Justice delayed affects real people, it can mean prolonged detention, uncertainty, and unfair outcomes. Timely legal processes are essential for a fair justice system.