Passing of Former Chief Justice of Belize, Dr. the Hon. Abdulai O. Conteh

Dr. Abdulai Osman Conteh

The Judiciary of Belize, led by Chief Justice Hon. Madam Louise Esther Blenman, has announced with profound sorrow the passing of Former Chief Justice Dr. the Hon. Abdulai O. Conteh, who served as the 28th Chief Justice of Belize from 2000 to 2010.

Dr. Conteh’s tenure was distinguished by his unwavering dedication to the rule of law, fidelity to the Belizean constitution, and significant contributions to the nation’s jurisprudence. Renowned for his erudition and brilliant legal mind, Dr. Conteh was a fair and fearless jurist who served Belize with exceptional distinction.

During his decade-long leadership, Former Chief Justice Conteh introduced stability and reform to the judicial system. His commitment to justice, equality, and modernization efforts left an indelible mark. Notably, his landmark rulings stand as exemplary models of judicial excellence.

In 2005, Dr. Conteh implemented new Judges’ Rules, Supreme Court Rules, and a Code of Ethics, establishing a rigorous framework for the practice and delivery of law. His impact extended beyond Belize, earning him respect and recognition across the Caribbean and the wider Commonwealth for his scholarly judgments.

As the legal community mourns his passing, it also celebrates his life and legacy. Dr. Conteh was more than a distinguished jurist; he was a mentor, guide, and source of inspiration for many. His work has laid a solid foundation for future generations, ensuring his legacy endures.

Chief Justice Blenman, on behalf of the Judiciary and people of Belize, extends deepest condolences to Dr. Conteh’s family, friends, and colleagues.

August 2, 2024 | news5Belize

---

“A Life Dedicated to Law: Dr. Abdulai Osman Conteh | Obituary: Dr. Abdulai Osman Conteh | (5 August 1945 — 2 August 2024)”

— SIERRAEYESALONE | @sierraeyesalone

Dr. Abdulai O. Conteh, a towering figure in #SierraLeone’s legal and political spheres, departed from us on the morning of August 2, 2024, in #Freetown, just days shy of his 79th birthday.

Born on August 5, 1945, in Rogbere, Gbinleh Dixon Chiefdom, #Kambia District, Dr. Conteh was a proud member of the Susu ethnic group. His early education in Freetown at Albert Academy and Fourah Bay College set the stage for an illustrious academic journey in the United Kingdom, where he earned a Ph.D. in International Law from @Kings_College, #Cambridge (1974), an LLB (Hons) from King's College, Cambridge (1971), an LLM from #London University (1971), and a Barrister-at-Law qualification from @linc@lincolnsinnlnsinn, London (1970).

Returning to Sierra Leone in the early 1970s, Dr. Conteh began his legal career at the Law Officers Department before moving into private practice and academia, teaching law at the Sierra Leone Law School. Like Professor Henry Mathew Joko-Smart, who passed away just days before him, Dr. Conteh was a pioneer of legal education in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Conteh’s political journey with the All Peoples Congress (APC) party saw him serve with distinction in numerous high-ranking positions. These included Minister of Foreign Affairs (1977–1984), Minister of Finance (1984–1985), Attorney-General and Minister of Justice (1987–1991), and First Vice-President and Minister of Rural Development (1991–1992). He was a dedicated Member of Parliament for #Kambia District from 1977 to 1992. Despite a few political blemishes, his contributions to public service were significant.

Dr. Abdulai Osman Conteh; Esq., PhD

In January 2000, Dr. Conteh assumed the role of Chief Justice of #Belize, a position he held until 2010. His tenure was marked by landmark rulings that upheld the common law doctrine of aboriginal title and recognized Maya customary land tenure, significantly impacting Belize’s legal landscape. Dr. Conteh’s judicial service extended to appointments as a Justice of the Court of Appeal of the #CaymanIslands (2008) and the Court of Appeal of the #Bahamas (2010-2015), where he continued to demonstrate his unwavering commitment to justice and integrity. Dr. Abdulai O. Conteh’s life was a testament to the principles of justice, integrity, and excellence. His contributions to the legal field and his service to Sierra Leone and the international community have left an indelible mark. His wisdom, values, and commitment to fairness continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In celebrating Dr. Conteh’s remarkable life, we honor his dedication to justice, his exceptional legal acumen, and his steadfast integrity. His legacy serves as a guiding light for future generations, exemplifying the highest ideals of honesty, fairness, and dedication to the rule of law.

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un

---