In a landmark ruling, the ECOWAS Court of Justice has ordered the government of Sierra Leone to amend or repeal its loitering laws, declaring them discriminatory and a violation of fundamental rights.
The court found that the current law disproportionately targets vulnerable individuals, particularly those engaging in legitimate activities at night, and grants police “excessive” authority to arrest and detain, creating potential for abuse.
Calling for urgent action, the court directed Sierra Leone to align its loitering laws with commitments under the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights and other international agreements. The ruling emphasized that the law infringes upon freedom of movement, urging “appropriate legislative measures” to amend or abolish the statute.
This legal victory was secured through the efforts of lawyer Eleanor Thompson, who represented the advocacy organization ADVOCAID in court, arguing that the loitering law unjustly criminalizes vulnerable individuals and violates fundamental human rights principles.
