Calls for judicial review of the continued detention of Zainab Sheriff have intensified as a women’s rights advocacy organization in Sierra Leone raises concerns about fairness, due process, and the protection of constitutional rights in the case.
The appeal was made by Legal Access Through Women Yearning for Equality Rights and Social Justice (L.A.W.Y.E.R.S.), a Freetown-based women’s rights group advocating for equal access to justice for women and girls. In a public notice dated March 6, 2026, the organization expressed deep concern over Sheriff’s continued detention following the denial of bail after her arrest last month.
Sheriff was reportedly taken into custody on February 20, 2026, and initially appeared before investigators at the Sierra Leone Police Criminal Investigation Department. Since then, she has remained on remand and is currently being held at the Female Correctional Centre at the Special Court of Sierra Leone while her case proceeds through the legal process.
According to the advocacy group, the continued refusal to grant bail raises questions about proportionality and adherence to legal safeguards that are meant to protect individuals awaiting trial.
“The refusal to grant Ms. Sheriff bail and her continued detention raises serious concerns about proportionality, fairness, and the protection of constitutional rights,” the organization stated.
The group noted that the situation has drawn particular attention due to its timing, coinciding with International Women’s Day and the ongoing 70th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), where global leaders and advocates are focusing on strengthening protections and expanding opportunities for women and girls.
This year’s theme for the international gathering “Rights, Justice and Action for all Women and Girls” highlights the importance of ensuring that legal systems treat women fairly and uphold fundamental human rights.
L.A.W.Y.E.R.S. argued that the case reflects broader issues surrounding women’s access to justice and the need for institutions to demonstrate commitment to equality before the law. The organization emphasized that the principles being discussed on the global stage should also be reflected in national practices.
“As an organization dedicated to advancing equal access to justice and protecting the rights of women and girls, we believe this moment calls for renewed commitment to the principles of fair treatment before the law, protection of women’s voices, and the safeguarding of fundamental rights,” the statement said.
In its appeal, the group urged judicial authorities to take immediate steps to address the matter by reviewing the earlier decision to deny bail. Specifically, the organization recommended that the review consider the provisions outlined in the Bail Regulations of 2018 and ensure that Sheriff’s constitutional rights are respected throughout the judicial process.
The group further stressed that pre-trial detention should remain an exceptional measure rather than a routine practice, particularly in cases where legal safeguards such as bail exist to protect the rights of accused persons pending trial.
Despite its strong concerns, the advocacy organization clarified that its intervention is not intended to interfere with the independence of the judiciary or influence the outcome of the case. Instead, it said the intention is to reinforce the importance of due process and the fair application of the law.
“As the world calls for rights, justice and action for all women and girls, we urge that these principles be reflected in practice by ensuring that Ms. Zainab Sheriff is granted bail pending the determination of her case,” the group stated.
Over the years, L.A.W.Y.E.R.S. has played a significant role in promoting legal awareness, access to justice, and social protection for women across Sierra Leone. Through advocacy, legal support, and public engagement, the organization continues to campaign for stronger safeguards to ensure that women and girls can participate fully and safely in society while enjoying equal protection under the law.
The case of Zainab Sheriff is expected to remain under public scrutiny as rights groups, legal practitioners, and observers continue to monitor developments within the country’s justice system.