Supreme Court Judge Isaac Lenaola Lands Role in Sierra Leone [DETAILS]

Supreme Court Judge Isaac Lenaola has been elected as the Vice President of the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone.

The Judiciary announced Lenaola's election on Thursday, February 29 in a statement, crediting the jury's wealth of experience and dedication to justice in selecting the renowned judge for the prestigious role.

"We are delighted to announce that Honorable Justice Isaac Lenaola of Kenya was today, Thursday, February 29, elected unanimously as the Vice President of the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone at the Court's Plenary held in Freetown, Sierra Leone," stated the Judiciary in part.

He will deputize Justice Richard Lussick of Samoa who was elected President of the court for a two-year term.

Judge Lenaola was appointed to the Court in 2013 by the then Secretary General of the United Nations, HE Ban Ki-Moon.

The Residual Special Court for Sierra is an ad hoc court and the successor to the Special Court for Sierra Leone (SCSL), whose mandate includes witness protection and support

Lenaola will be expected to respond to threats related to testimony given before the SCSL and provide appropriate protection and support measures. Witness protection officers are located in Freetown.

He will also provide assistance to National Prosecution Authorities through managing governmental requests for evidence and information to support investigations, prosecutions, forfeiture proceedings and asylum cases.

He will also ensure that confidentiality obligations are upheld as well as manage the disclosure of exculpatory evidence and requests from other States for documents relevant to witness protection orders.

"Supervision of Prison Sentences/Pardons/Commutations/Early Releases - The supervision of the enforcement of sentences is a continuing obligation that may extend until 2055.

"This supervision includes inspection of the conditions of imprisonment, as well as tracking of time served and dates of release, including early release, pardon or commutation," added the statement.

The Judiciary extended its heartfelt congratulations to Justice Lenaola and wished him great success in his new role.

Justice Lenaola is a highly regarded judge who joined the judicial service in 2003 and worked as Resident Judge in several High Courts.