In addition to the Judiciary, there are establishments of other national institutions which
seek the promotion and protection of rights enshrined in the charter. The Constitution in
section 146 establishes the office of the Ombudsman, which has the responsibility of
investigating any action taken or omitted to be taken by or on behalf of any department or
ministry of government, statutory cooperation or institutions of higher learning or
education set up entirely or partially out of public funds or any member of the public
service in the exercise of his administrative functions. As such, complaints of abuse of
rights by these government officials and institutions can be handled by the office of the
Ombudsman.
The establishment of the Human Rights Commission also creates an avenue for rights
and freedoms enshrined in the charter to be promoted and protected.
Apart from these institutions, several human rights NGOs including legal human rights
NGOs which provide legal services such as advice, sensitisation and legal representation
are in existence in Sierra Leone. These organisations operate with as much freedom as is
needed.
Articles 27 – 29
Articles 27-29 deals with the duties of the individual to his family and the state.
Legal Framework
The Constitution in section 13 provides the duties of the citizen which include abiding by
the constitution, cultivating a sense of nationalism, enhancing the good name of the state,
respect the dignity and religion of others, ensuring the proper up bring of his children or
ward, and making positive contributions to the development of the community.
General practise
At present, one of the visions of the President is attitudinal and behavioural change which
came about as a result of the Government Agenda for Change or PRSP 11.
The National Commission for Democracy (NCD) does civic education for interested
persons and there is in existence a national pledge which is a constant reminder for
citizens of their duties to the state.
In line with the duties towards family, as a matter of practice in Sierra Leone, children
look after their aged parent/ relatives. The Devolution of Estate Act also makes provision
for a surviving parent or guardian to inherit property from the estate of a deceased child
who dies intestate.
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