Former President Ernest Bai Koroma Faces Treason Charges
On Wednesday, January 3, 2024, the courtroom was filled as the former President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bai Koroma, appeared alongside key APC figures, including Chairman Minkailu Mansaray, Secretary General Lansana Dumbuya, Mayor Yvonne Aki Sawyerr, and several party members and family.
Facing Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Court No. 2, Pademba Road, Freetown, Ernest Bai Koroma was met with a formidable representation. The State’s legal team included Minister of Justice/Attorney General M.L Tarawallie, Solicitor General RB Kowa, Director of Public Prosecution O.I Kanu, and others.
The accused, represented by a team led by Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, Lansana Dumbuya, and several others, faced charges of treason and harbouring individuals aimed at overthrowing the government.
The charges allege that between November 5 and 26, 2023, Koroma harboured and conspired with individuals to subvert the government of Sierra Leone. Specific counts mention the harbouring of Emmanuel Salifu Kamara, Kabba Dumbuya, Yapo Sesay, Ibrahim Kabba, Soriba Mansaray, Ibrahim Tollu Bangura, and others, intending to undermine the government’s stability.
The court proceedings encountered delays, prompting Magistrate Bangura to schedule the next hearing for January 17, 2024. Both the prosecution and defence were advised to present witnesses on that date.
Former President Koroma was granted self-bail pending further court appearances. The case remains a significant point of attention, awaiting further developments in the legal proceedings.
