The Lawyers’ Society of Sierra Leone has called on state authorities to ensure that all measures taken in the ongoing national fight against drug abuse and trafficking fully comply with the country’s constitutional and statutory requirements.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, the Society expressed its support for the nationwide campaign against drugs, describing it as “robust” and recognizing the profound threat drug abuse and trafficking pose to Sierra Leone’s social fabric and future.

However, the Society cautioned that all government actions must adhere strictly to the rule of law. It highlighted concerns over a Practice Direction recently issued by the Chief Justice on 1 December 2025, aimed at addressing illegal drug production, distribution, and use under the National Drug Control Act 2008.

While appreciating the intent behind the Direction, the Lawyers’ Society questioned its legal foundation, noting that the National Drug Control Act explicitly empowers the Minister responsible for internal affairs—not the judiciary—to make regulations for implementing the law. They also noted that requiring all drug-related cases to be tried exclusively in the High Court contradicts provisions in the Act allowing for summary trials in certain circumstances.

The Society further criticized the Practice Direction’s approach to bail and sentencing. It argued that treating all drug offences as non-bailable and mandating predetermined sentence lengths undermines judicial discretion, the principle of proportionality, and the presumption of innocence.

“The battle against drugs must be waged through the rule of law, not in opposition to it,” the Society stated. “Even individuals accused of the gravest offences are presumed innocent until proven guilty and are entitled to fair trial rights and due process.”

In conclusion, the Lawyers’ Society urged the Chief Justice to review and revise the Practice Direction to align it with existing legal frameworks. The statement also called for adequate resources to be allocated to expedite the adjudication of drug-related cases, ensuring timely justice within constitutional bounds.

The Society reaffirmed its commitment to working with the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders, offering expertise, training, and collaborative initiatives to strengthen the rule of law in Sierra Leone’s fight against the drug epidemic.