By Foday Moriba Conteh
In a recent development, the treason trial of former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma has been adjourned once more. Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No. 2 made this decision after both the prosecution and defense counsels failed to appear in court for the scheduled hearing. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Osman I. Kanu, and Defense Counsel, Saidu Bangura, held a closed-door meeting with the magistrate prior to the adjournment.
Ernest Bai Koroma faces four charges: one count of treason, one count of misprision of treason and two counts of harboring individuals with the intent to commit treason, all in violation of Sierra Leonean law.
The indictment details that between November 5 and November 26, 2023, Ernest Bai Koroma allegedly prepared to overthrow the Government of Sierra Leone through unlawful means. It further accuses him of harboring Soriba Mansaray, Yapo Sesay, Ibrahim Thorlu Bangura, Sergeant 10020 Emmanuel Salifu Kamara and Kabba Dumbuya at his premises between November 20 and November 25, 2023, in preparation for such an unlawful act. Additionally, on November 29, 2023, in Makeni, Ernest Bai Koroma is accused of unlawfully concealing knowledge of the treasonous plans of Soriba Mansaray, Ibrahim Thorlu Bangura and Yapo Sesay.
It could be recalled that on January 17, 2024, Justice Samuel Taylor of the High Court in Freetown granted Ernest Bai Koroma permission to travel to Nigeria for urgent medical treatment. That decision followed a successful bail review application by Ernest Bai Koroma’s legal team, allowing a ninety-day period for medical attention.
Currently, Ernest Bai Koroma’s Defense team is seeking an extension of his medical leave from the High Court. Due to the absence of both the prosecution and defense counsels in the recent court session, Magistrate Bangura has adjourned the case to November 18, 2024.
This ongoing legal battle continues to draw significant attention both domestically and internationally, as the former president faces serious allegations that could have far-reaching implications for Sierra Leone’s political landscape.
