HRCSL Renews Call for Reparations
HRCSL’s Chairperson, Patricia Narsu Ndanema
By Ishmail Saidu Kanu
The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) has reaffirmed its legal and moral obligation to advocate for justice for victims of the civil war, using this year’s International Human Rights Day to intensify its call for the full implementation of reparations as mandated by national and international human rights standards.
Addressing stakeholders on 10th December 2025, Chairperson Patricia Narsu Ndanema stressed that the Commission’s localized theme, “Remembering the Horrors of the Civil War; Seeking Reparations for War Victims; and Committing to NEVER AGAIN”, is rooted in established legal frameworks, principally the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Report, which imposes a clear responsibility on the State to remedy past harms.
She mentioned that thousands of Sierra Leoneans who endured killings, sexual violence, amputations, abductions, and other gross violations continue to suffer the long-term consequences of those atrocities. ‘Reparations’, she noted, “are not an act of charity; they are a legal entitlement, an acknowledgment of harm, and an affirmation of dignity.”
Madam Narsu Ndanema reminded government that the TRC’s recommendations constitute a national blueprint for justice, accountability, and reform. She noted that outstanding obligations, including comprehensive victim support, institutional reforms, and guarantees of non-repetition, must be fulfilled to satisfy the State’s duties under Chapter 3 of the 1991 Constitution and the regional and international human rights conventions to which Sierra Leone is a party.
Calling for strengthened mechanisms to implement the remaining TRC recommendations, she warned that failure to do so risks undermining public trust in the justice system and weakening the safeguards intended to prevent a relapse into conflict.
The HRCSL Chairperson further urged the government to embed principles of equity, non-discrimination, and access to justice across all sectors, stressing that essential rights, healthcare, water, education, security, and shelter, must be protected as ‘Everyday Essentials’ for all Sierra Leoneans.
Civil society organizations, faith leaders, and community advocates were encouraged to continue their watchdog role by monitoring compliance, educating communities, and ensuring that rights holders have a voice.
She also appealed to schoolchildren to cultivate respect, inclusion, and the courage to speak against injustice.
The ceremony concluded with a formal signing of a ‘Commitment Pledge’, symbolizing a collective vow to uphold human rights and safeguard the nation from ever returning to the atrocities of the past.
Checked out xjwinbr the other day and it was pretty decent. Nothing super fancy, but it got the job done. Might be worth a look if you’re bored! Give xjwinbr a shot.