The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., has formally discontinued the criminal proceedings against former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, bringing an end to the treason-related case that had been before the courts.
“Today, pursuant to Section 45 of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024, I have filed papers to discontinue charges against former President Ernest Bai Koroma, who has been on bail for medical reasons following his arraignment before a magistrate. With this discontinuance, as provided in Section 45 of the said Criminal Procedure Act, ‘his recognizances shall be discharged’ immediately,” the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice stated.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, 14 July, 2026, the Office of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice announced that a notice had been filed to discontinue the proceedings in accordance with Section 45 of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024.
According to the notice, the decision was taken under the constitutional and statutory powers vested in the Attorney-General by the laws of Sierra Leone.
Former President Ernest Bai Koroma had been facing charges relating to treason and misprision of treason. He had previously been granted bail on medical grounds and has been residing outside the country for medical treatment.
The Attorney-General’s filing means that the criminal proceedings are no longer before the court, effectively bringing the case to a close. Consequently, the former President’s bail has also come to an end with immediate effect.
The Government further stated that, following the discontinuance of the charges, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma is now free to return to Sierra Leone upon the completion of his medical treatment or at any other time of his choosing.
The announcement marks a significant development in Sierra Leone’s political and legal landscape, particularly as the country hosts the ECOWAS Mid-Year Summit, and is expected to generate widespread public and political reaction in the coming days.
In his response, Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma has welcomed the Government of Sierra Leone’s decision to discontinue the criminal proceedings instituted against him, describing the development as the triumph of peace, justice and reconciliation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, from Abuja, Nigeria, the former President said he had received the announcement by the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice confirming that the criminal proceedings against him had been discontinued in accordance with the laws of Sierra Leone. The Attorney-General’s Office earlier announced that the proceedings had been formally withdrawn, bringing the high-profile case to an end.
Koroma expressed gratitude to God for what he described as His grace and mercy throughout the legal process, saying his faith had remained steadfast during the difficult period.
“I thank the Almighty God for the infinite grace and mercy to me and my family throughout this difficult period. My faith has remained anchored in His providence and in the enduring conviction that peace, justice and reconciliation must always triumph over adversity,” he stated.
The former President also acknowledged the role played by President Julius Maada Bio and the Government of Sierra Leone in bringing the matter to a close.
He said he appreciated the efforts of all those who, guided by the Constitution and the rule of law, contributed to the resolution of the case.
Koroma further expressed profound appreciation to the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, and former Heads of State for their commitment to promoting peace, dialogue and regional stability.
He paid special tribute to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as exemplary leadership, personal commitment and steadfast support throughout the process.
Koroma also thanked the Government and people of Nigeria, as well as the country’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for the hospitality, friendship and support extended to him since his arrival in Abuja for medical treatment.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s political history, the former President said the country has overcome many challenges by placing national interest above individual considerations and by strengthening unity and dialogue.
“Our country has overcome far greater trials because we have always found the wisdom to place nation above self, to build bridges of understanding, strengthen the bonds that unite us and work together in pursuit of a stable and prosperous Sierra Leone for present and future generations,” he noted.
Koroma reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote national peace, democratic governance and the welfare of Sierra Leoneans.
“I remain committed to every sincere effort that advances peace, strengthens our democracy and promotes the welfare of our people,” he concluded.
