By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a surprising turn of events, the Sierra Leone Police has on the 7th December, 2023 summoned the former President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, to report to the headquarters of the Criminal Investigations Department in Freetown within 24 hours for questioning regarding the failed attempted coup on November 26, 2023.
The announcement was made by Chernor A. Bah, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, who stated, “At around 11:00 AM today, 7th December, 2023, the Sierra Leone police served a summons to the former President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma – inviting him to report at the headquarters of the Criminal Investigations Department in Freetown within a period of 24 hours.” Bah further explained that the former president is being called upon to provide assistance in the ongoing criminal investigations into the failed attempted coup.
Responding to the invitation, the Office of the Former President, HE Ernest Bai Koroma, in a Press Release assured that the former President Koroma has confirmed his intention to travel to Freetown to comply with the invitation.
According to the Press Release, expressing his commitment to cooperation, Former President Koroma stated, “I maintain an open mind and stand ready to support the police investigations to the fullest. Let the rule of law reign supreme in our democracy.”
The former President has called for calm among the public, urging support for the ongoing police investigation and emphasizing the importance of adhering to due process in accordance with the law.
It must be underscored that this development has sent shockwaves through the country, as it marks the first time a former President of Sierra Leone has been directly linked to such a serious criminal investigation. The failed coup attempt, which occurred on November 26th, has raised concerns about the stability and security of the nation.
The Ministry of Information and Civic Education has pledged to provide updates as the investigation progresses, as the nation eagerly awaits further information on this unprecedented situation.
Summoning Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma has sparked widespread interest and concern among citizens and observers alike, and it is expected to have significant implications for the political landscape of Sierra Leone.
For now, the Republic of Sierra Leone is bracing itself for the unfolding of this unprecedented event, and the eyes of the nation remain fixed on the outcome of the impending questioning of the former President.
