ABSTRACT
The possibility of reforming the Tribal Administration system appears to have been raised again in 1948, for from that time onwards, as positions of Tribal Headmen fell vacant they were filled by persons appointed in an acting capacity. This chapter describes that the position of Tribal Headman had a social importance far exceeding the judicial powers of the incumbent. Tribal Headmen are elected by their people, recognized by the Government, and installed as chiefs by the elders of the tribe after the performance of the appropriate ceremonies which may take place in the 'bush' outside Freetown. The Ordinance in force authorized the Governor in Council to make rules on specified matters which were to be enforced by Tribal Headmen. In many ways the headmen have been of direct assistance to the Government. During the riots of February 1955 the Tribal Headmen were brought together and requested to use their influence to frustrate sabotage and quieten the people.
