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SLAJ, Chinese Embassy Launch National Short Video Competition to Mark 55 Years of China–Sierra Leone Relations

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), in collaboration with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sierra Leone, has officially launched a national short video competition inviting members of the public to creatively tell stories of cooperation, friendship and shared development between China and Sierra Leone.

The competition, announced in a Press Release dated 2 February 2026, is themed: “China–Sierra Leone Cooperation in My Eyes.” It forms part of activities marking two significant milestones: the 55th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between China and Sierra Leone and the China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges 2026.

According to the organisers, the initiative is designed to strengthen people-to-people ties, showcase shared development experiences and highlight the positive impact of China–Sierra Leone cooperation through the eyes of Sierra Leoneans. By using short videos as a storytelling tool, the organisers aim to encourage authentic, creative and community-based narratives that reflect everyday experiences and long-standing partnerships between the two countries.

The competition is open to all Sierra Leoneans across diverse backgrounds. Eligible participants include journalists and media practitioners, content creators and social media influencers, students and young people, academics and researchers, community storytellers, and members of the general public. While collaborative works between Sierra Leonean and Chinese creators are encouraged, the organizers emphasized that the main characters and perspectives should remain primarily Sierra Leonean.

Participants are expected to submit videos that creatively explore China–Sierra Leone relations and cooperation. Suggested focus areas include stories of friendship and people-to-people exchanges, China’s contribution to national development in sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, health, education, trade and transportation, cultural exchanges and everyday moments of cooperation. Youth-focused stories showing how collaboration is helping young people achieve their dreams are also encouraged, alongside forward-looking reflections on the future of China–Sierra Leone cooperation, including sustainable development and the Belt and Road Initiative.

From a technical standpoint, submitted videos must not exceed five minutes in length and should be produced in formats such as interviews, short documentaries, public service announcements, creative vlogs, micro-stories, animations or other original styles. Accepted file formats include MP4, AVI, MOV and WMV, with a minimum resolution of 1920 by 1080 (Full HD) and a maximum file size of 500MB. Videos should be in English, with subtitles encouraged and all submissions must be original works with full copyright ownership retained by the creator. There is no limit to the number of submissions per participant.

Entries will be reviewed by a joint panel of experts appointed by SLAJ and the Chinese Embassy. Selected winners will receive cash prizes and certificates of recognition, while outstanding entries will be showcased on the Chinese Embassy’s social media platforms and other media outlets.

Submissions are now open and will close on 31 March 2026. Videos, along with a brief description and the creator’s contact details, should be emailed to slajchinavideo@gmail.com, using the subject line format: Creator’s Name – Video Title – Phone Number.

The competition is jointly organized by SLAJ and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sierra Leone and is signed by Edward Marah, Secretary General of SLAJ, who encouraged Sierra Leoneans nationwide to seize the opportunity to share their stories and help deepen public understanding of China–Sierra Leone cooperation through creativity and storytelling.

APC Accuses Government of Unilateralism in Unity Agreement, Demands Urgent Reform Reset

APC’s Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Alhaji Dr. Osman Foday Yansaneh

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The All People’s Congress (All People’s Congress) has expressed deep concern over what it describes as the slow and selective implementation of the Agreement for National Unity and the Tripartite Committee Recommendations (TCRs), warning that continued delays could trigger nationwide democratic action.

The concerns were raised during a massive grassroots meeting held at the Attouga Mini Stadium in Freetown on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Addressing party members, supporters and flagbearer aspirants, the APC’s Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Alhaji Dr. Osman Foday Yansaneh, delivered a detailed update on the status of the agreement, nearly eighteen months after the TCRs were formally submitted.

Alhaji Yansaneh told the gathering that progress on implementing the recommendations has been “limited and far below expectations,” despite the APC’s continued commitment to patience, dialogue and democratic engagement. He commended party supporters for their restraint and reiterated the APC’s resolve to pursue reforms aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s electoral system and democratic governance.

He acknowledged the role of development partners and international supporters, noting that their technical and financial assistance, particularly in voter registration, election result management and institutional capacity-building for the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL), remains vital to national dialogue and the credibility of future elections.

According to the Acting Chairman, some modest gains have been recorded. Those include the gazetting of a Constitutional Amendment Bill containing selected electoral reforms, a management review of the ECSL, the release of some detainees, the return of a limited number of displaced persons and the discontinuation of certain politically motivated cases. However, he stressed that those steps fall short of the comprehensive reforms envisaged under the Tripartite framework.

Of particular concern, Alhaji Yansaneh said, is the reported disappearance of appeal case files involving APC members at the Commission of Inquiry Secretariat. He warned that the missing files undermine access to justice, obstruct effective legal representation and erode public confidence in accountability processes.

The APC Acting Chairman sharply criticized what he described as the Government’s unilateral approach to reforms, arguing that it violates the agreed Tripartite Roadmap. He characterized the Steering Committee and Support Secretariat as “dysfunctional and lacking inclusiveness,” adding that engagement with the Government’s Chief Negotiator has effectively broken down due to persistent non-responsiveness.

He also objected to several recent Government actions, including Parliament’s refusal to establish a dedicated electoral committee, the failure of the ECSL to reconstitute the Political Parties Liaison Committee and provisions in the Constitutional Amendment Bill that grant the President appointment powers which, he said, contradict the spirit and letter of the TCRs. In that regard, he cited the role of the Parliament of Sierra Leone as critical to restoring confidence in the reform process.

Alhaji Yansaneh further condemned the postponement of the 2025 Population and Housing Census and questioned the continued reliance on the disputed 2021 Census, warning that flawed demographic data could compromise electoral planning and national development.

The APC also rejected proposals to introduce a Proportional Representation electoral system and to alter the presidential winning threshold. The party warned that such changes, if pursued without broad consensus, could deepen political divisions and destabilize the electoral environment.

In concluding his address, the Acting National Chairman called for the immediate restructuring of reform bodies, full transparency in the implementation of the National Unity Agreement and urgent intervention by development partners to safeguard the process. He cautioned that if the Government continues what the APC perceives as unilateralism and intimidation, the party would mobilize peaceful, lawful and democratic actions across the country to defend democracy and uphold the will of the people.

George Taylor Takes Over EDSA as Newly Appointed Director General

George Taylor (in grey suit) Takes Over EDSA as Newly Appointed Director General

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, has appointed George Taylor as the new Director General of the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), with immediate effect. The appointment forms part of the Government’s ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening governance, efficiency and service delivery within the country’s energy sector.

According to official sources, the decision reflects President Bio’s confidence in George Taylor’s vast experience in administration, banking, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), as well as his proven track record in institutional transformation. The Ministry of Energy has reaffirmed the President’s strong commitment to transparency, accountability and the sustainable transformation of Sierra Leone’s electricity distribution system.

On Monday, 2 February 2026, the Minister of Energy, Cyril Arnold Grant, formally received and welcomed the new Director General at a ceremony held in the conference room of the Ministry of Energy in Freetown. Minister Cyril Grant described George Taylor’s assumption of office as timely, noting that EDSA is at a critical juncture in its reform journey.

“George Taylor is here riding on the crest of a highly respected background,” Minister Cyril Grant said. “We have examined his credentials carefully and we are highly impressed. EDSA is expected to go into concession in the coming months and this requires decisive leadership that can seize this historic moment and drive transformation.”

Cyril Grant further noted that George Taylor assumes office at a time when EDSA faces significant challenges, including financial constraints, operational inefficiencies and staff-related concerns. He emphasized that EDSA remains one of the largest public utilities in the country by turnover, stressing that it must be properly managed, financially stabilized and repositioned to better serve both employees and consumers.

A seasoned banker and ICT specialist, George Taylor rose through the ranks of the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB), eventually serving as its Managing Director. During his tenure, the bank recorded a major turnaround, moving from financial distress to sustained profitability and paying dividends to the Government of Sierra Leone as its principal shareholder. He is also widely credited with mentoring a generation of young bankers, many of whom now occupy key decision-making positions within the institution.

Speaking at the event, the Board Chairman of EDSA, Andrew Kailie, confirmed that George Taylor underwent a rigorous recruitment and interview process conducted by the Board and was found to be suitably qualified. He assured the new Director General of the Board’s full support, while underscoring the enormity of the task ahead.

Outgoing Acting Director General, Tesman Egbe, expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their guidance and cooperation during his tenure. He highlighted what he described as unprecedented operational gains achieved under his leadership despite prevailing challenges.

In his acceptance remarks, George Taylor, acknowledged the difficult realities confronting the utility but expressed optimism and determination. He pledged to work collaboratively with the Board, Management, staff and stakeholders to deepen reforms, improve revenue generation and enhance service delivery. Emphasizing teamwork and mutual respect, he noted that meaningful progress would only be achieved through collective effort.

With the energy sector playing a pivotal role in the Government’s national development agenda, including the Feed Salone initiative, stakeholders view George Taylor’s appointment as a significant step toward consolidating recent gains and restoring public confidence in electricity distribution. As congratulatory messages continue to pour in from across the country, expectations are high that his leadership will steer EDSA toward greater efficiency, financial sustainability and improved service for Sierra Leoneans.

Africell Honours Abdul Karim Sesay as Manager of the Year at 2025 Staff Awards

Abdul Karim Sesay, Media Manager at Africell Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Abdul Karim Sesay, Media Manager at Africell Sierra Leone, has been honoured with a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of his exceptional performance and leadership during the company’s 2025 operational year, underscoring Africell’s commitment to rewarding excellence and professional dedication.

The prestigious award was presented on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the colourful Africell Annual End-of-Year Staff Party, organized in collaboration with Afrimoney. The well-attended ceremony brought together senior management, staff members and invited partners from across the corporate and media landscape, creating an atmosphere of celebration and appreciation.

Issued in Abdul Karim Sesay’s name, the certificate recognized him as Manager of the Year 2025, citing his dedication, professionalism and impactful service delivery within the Media and Communications space. The award reflects his consistent role in strengthening Africell’s corporate image, deepening media relations and expanding public engagement across traditional and digital platforms.

Over the past year, Abdul Karim Sesay has been instrumental in shaping Africell’s communications strategy, ensuring timely, accurate and compelling storytelling that reinforces the company’s position as a leading telecommunications and digital services provider in Sierra Leone. His leadership has helped amplify Africell’s brand visibility while fostering constructive relationships with journalists, content creators and strategic partners nationwide.

Speaking after receiving the award, Abdul Karim Sesay expressed heartfelt appreciation to his colleagues and external partners for their sustained support and collaboration. He emphasized that the recognition was not merely a personal milestone but a shared success born out of teamwork, trust and collective commitment.

“This recognition would not have been possible without the unwavering support, collaboration and partnership I continue to enjoy,” he said. “It symbolizes the collective effort of a dedicated team and partners who believe in professionalism, consistency  and positive storytelling.”

He paid special tribute to media partners for their professionalism and commitment to accurate reporting, noting that their role remains critical in amplifying Africell’s impact and reinforcing public confidence in the brand. According to him, strong media relations are central to building transparency and sustaining meaningful engagement with the public.

Abdul Karim Sesay also thanked Africell’s Management for the confidence reposed in him and his team, reaffirming his commitment to innovation, excellence and stronger stakeholder engagement in the years ahead. He expressed optimism about deepening collaboration with partners and delivering even greater results as the company continues to grow.

The Africell Annual Staff Party remains a key platform for celebrating performance, recognizing outstanding contributions and reinforcing the company’s culture of appreciation and teamwork. Through such initiatives, Africell continues to motivate its workforce while strengthening its reputation as a forward-looking and people-centred organisation in Sierra Leone’s fast-evolving digital economy.

PPRC Slaps APC with NLe350,000 Fine Over Alleged Inciting Statements at Mammoth Rally

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) has imposed financial penalties on the All Peoples Congress (APC) for violations of the Political Parties Act, 2022, following statements made during a recent party gathering in Freetown.

In a Press Release issued on Monday, February 2, 2026, the PPRC announced fines amounting to Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand Leones (NLe350,000) against the opposition party. The sanctions stem from alleged breaches of Section 39 (1)(c) and Section 39 (1)(d) of the Political Parties Act, Act No. 25 of 2022.

According to the Commission, the violations occurred during the APC’s widely attended “mammoth meeting” held at the Atouga Mini Stadium on Saturday, January 31, 2026. The fines were issued in relation to statements attributed to the party’s National Secretary General, Lansana Dumbuya Esq., who was fined NLe200,000, and Zainab Sheriff, who received a fine of NLe150,000.

The PPRC stated that the remarks made at the event were found to be “profane, obscene, provocative and inciting,” actions which the Commission considers contrary to the provisions governing political conduct and public order in Sierra Leone.

The Commission further disclosed that it had previously warned the APC against similar conduct. By a formal letter dated November 11, 2025, the PPRC cautioned the party over its contravention of Section 39 of the Act, urging compliance with the legal and ethical standards expected of registered political parties.

“The Commission notes with grave concern that such statements undermine peace, national cohesion and the democratic process,” the Press Release emphasized.

In line with the law, the APC has been granted seven (7) days from the date of the notice to settle the imposed fines. The PPRC warned that failure to comply within the stipulated timeframe would compel the Commission to invoke additional enforcement measures as provided for under the Political Parties Act.

The PPRC reiterated its mandate to regulate the conduct of political parties, promote peaceful political engagement and safeguard national stability. It called on all political actors to exercise restraint, responsibility and respect for the law, particularly during public rallies and political meetings.

For further clarification, the Commission advised the public and stakeholders to contact the Director of Training and External Relations at the PPRC.

Foreign Affairs Minister Leads Sierra Leone Delegation to U.S. Critical Minerals Ministerial Summit Starting Today

Foreign Affairs Minister (middle) Leads Sierra Leone Delegation to U.S. Critical Minerals Ministerial Summit

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, is leading the country’s delegation to the inaugural United States Critical Minerals Ministerial Summit scheduled for February 4, 2026, in Washington, D.C. The high-level engagement underscores Sierra Leone’s growing role in global discussions on strategic mineral supply chains and international economic security.

The delegation includes the Deputy Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, reflecting a coordinated approach between Sierra Leone’s foreign policy and extractive-sector leadership. The team arrived in Washington on Monday, February 2, following an official invitation from the United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, who is hosting the ministerial at the U.S. Department of State.

The Critical Minerals Ministerial brings together Government leaders from mineral-rich and industrialized countries to address the growing global demand for strategic resources essential to advanced technologies, clean energy transitions and national defense systems. Central to the discussions are minerals such as cobalt, lithium, copper, uranium and rare earth elements; resources that are increasingly vital to electric vehicles, renewable energy infrastructure, semiconductors and defense manufacturing.

According to briefing materials, the conference aims to secure, diversify and strengthen global supply chains for critical minerals, with a particular focus on reducing over-dependence on China-dominated processing and distribution networks. The United States is expected to advocate for new bilateral and multilateral frameworks that promote transparent mining practices, responsible investment and long-term supply security.

African participation forms a key pillar of the ministerial. Several mineral-rich African countries, including Guinea and the Democratic Republic of Congo, have confirmed attendance, highlighting Washington’s push to deepen strategic partnerships across the continent. Sierra Leone’s presence places it within a select group of countries being courted as potential long-term suppliers in the evolving global minerals market.

For Sierra Leone, the summit presents an opportunity to showcase its mineral potential while advancing national interests related to value addition, investment diversification and sustainable resource governance. Officials familiar with the delegation’s agenda say discussions will emphasize mutually beneficial cooperation, respect for national sovereignty over mineral resources and the need for investments that support local development and job creation.

The ministerial is also unfolding within a broader geopolitical context shaped by the United States’ renewed emphasis on securing critical supply chains under an “America First” economic strategy. Negotiations are expected to focus on access arrangements, processing partnerships and technology transfer, particularly in Africa, where vast untapped mineral reserves are increasingly central to global competition.

Alongside the ministerial, Secretary of State, Marco Rubio and senior U.S. State Department officials are holding a series of diplomatic engagements and strategic dialogues in Washington during the week, underscoring the high-level nature of the event. While the official U.S. public schedule remains subject to change, the summit itself is widely viewed as a milestone in redefining global cooperation on critical minerals.

Sierra Leone’s participation signals its intent to position itself as a credible and responsible partner in the global critical minerals value chain, while leveraging international platforms to advance sustainable economic growth and strategic diplomacy.

Royal Fitness Positions Fitness and Nutrition as Frontline Solutions to Lifestyle Diseases

Royal Fitness

Royal Fitness has announced an ambitious 2026 wellness drive aimed at tackling the rising burden of lifestyle-related diseases in Sierra Leone through structured physical training, professional coaching and nutrition-focused guidance. The initiative positions the Juba-based fitness centre as more than a gym; branding it as a complete wellness hub dedicated to long-term health transformation.

Strategically located along the Peninsular Highway in Juba, Freetown, Royal Fitness has emerged as one of the country’s most sought-after destinations for individuals, families and corporate clients seeking disciplined, results-driven approaches to healthy living. As sedentary lifestyles, stress and diet-related illnesses continue to impact productivity and quality of life, the facility is championing fitness as a public health priority rather than a luxury.

Management says the 2026 programme is built around a clear philosophy: sustainable wellness is achieved when physical training, mental discipline and nutrition work together. Rather than focusing solely on appearance, Royal Fitness is promoting consistency, healthy habits and measurable health outcomes that support longevity and daily performance.

“Health is wealth and fitness is the foundation,” a spokesperson said. “Our 2026 focus is to inspire more Sierra Leoneans to take ownership of their wellbeing through guided training, proper nutrition and a supportive fitness culture.”

Members describe Royal Fitness as comparable to international-standard gyms, citing its organized layout, hygiene standards and clearly defined workout zones. The facility caters to a wide range of fitness levels from beginners building basic strength and mobility to seasoned athletes training for endurance and peak performance.

The centre is equipped with dedicated cardio sections, strength and resistance stations and group-training areas for aerobics, stretching and flexibility work. This multi-zone design allows members to follow customized routines aligned with their fitness goals, age and physical condition.

A key pillar of Royal Fitness’ growing reputation is its emphasis on professional supervision. Certified trainers work closely with members to develop personalized programmes targeting weight management, muscle development, body toning, stamina and overall conditioning. According to Management, this hands-on approach has significantly improved consistency, reduced injury risks and increased long-term commitment among members.

Beyond traditional gym sessions, the facility offers high-energy group classes such as spinning, Zumba and aerobics, alongside one-on-one coaching for clients seeking focused, individualized attention. Recognizing that exercise alone is not enough, Royal Fitness has expanded into nutrition and diet counselling, helping members align their eating habits with their training objectives for lasting results.

The gym has also invested heavily in globally respected fitness equipment, underscoring its commitment to world-class standards. Members train using advanced machines from Technogym and Panatta of Italy, alongside Arsenal Strength equipment from the United States; brands trusted internationally for performance tracking, ergonomic design and elite athletic conditioning.

With the rollout of its 2026 wellness agenda, Royal Fitness is positioning itself as a leading force in Sierra Leone’s health and lifestyle movement. With the rollout of its 2026 wellness agenda, Royal Fitness is positioning itself as a leading force in Sierra Leone’s health and lifestyle movement, demonstrating that premium fitness, professional guidance, and holistic care can be delivered locally.

For membership and registration enquiries, Royal Fitness can be reached on (+23290 001000), reaffirming its commitment to delivering royal care through fitness, discipline and healthy living.

NDMA Rolls Out Nationwide Gender Engagement to Embed Inclusion in Disaster Management

The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has reinforced its commitment to inclusive disaster management following the successful completion of a nationwide regional engagement focused on gender and social inclusion.

Led by NDMA’s Gender and Social Inclusion Coordinator, Erica A. B. Konneh, the initiative was conducted from January 19 to 26, 2026, with approval from the Agency’s leadership. It covered all four regional offices in the North-West, Northern, Eastern, and Southern Regions, bringing together regional staff to deepen understanding of gender mainstreaming, inclusive practice and the role of gender-sensitive data in disaster preparedness, response and recovery.

The engagement team included NDMA’s Internal Auditor, Abdul Razak Kemoh, the Deputy Director of Human Resource and Administration, Mather Baindu Lahai, and Erica A. B. Konneh. Across the regions, staff demonstrated strong interest and active participation through interactive sessions aimed at strengthening gender-inclusive approaches within regional operations.

Explaining the purpose of the tour, Erica A. B. Konneh said the engagement was designed to embed gender and social inclusion as core principles across all stages of disaster management, rather than treating them as stand-alone issues.

“Gender and social inclusion are fundamentally human rights issues,” she stated. “Our objective is to ensure that NDMA’s disaster response leaves no one behind; women, men, children, older persons and persons living with disabilities.”

She noted that the sessions also encouraged regional staff to serve as inclusion ambassadors in their day-to-day work, particularly during community engagements and assessments. Emphasis was placed on accurate and inclusive data collection as a foundation for effective planning, coordination with partners and resource mobilization.

The sessions combined presentations with open discussions, providing space for staff to share experiences, raise questions and suggest practical solutions. A post-engagement questionnaire recorded a 92.3 percent response rate, reflecting strong participation and yielding valuable insights into staff perspectives on gender and inclusion within the Agency.

Participants reported an improved understanding of gender mainstreaming as a cross-cutting mindset that applies throughout the disaster cycle, from preparedness to recovery. Many also acknowledged that inclusive disaster management goes beyond women and children to encompass men and other vulnerable groups and requires skills such as ethical data collection, communication, coordination and risk communication.

Commenting on the initiative, NDMA Director General John Vandy Rogers described the regional engagement as a strategic investment in institutional effectiveness.

“Inclusive disaster management is not optional; it is essential,” he said. “When gender and social inclusion are properly mainstreamed, our interventions become more effective, accountable and responsive to the real needs of affected communities.”

He assured that NDMA Management would review the findings and recommendations from the engagement, noting that several issues raised have agency-wide implications due to NDMA’s integrated operational structure.

In her closing remarks, Erica A. B. Konneh described the tour as both professionally enriching and institutionally valuable, citing stronger relationships with regional colleagues and deeper insight into the realities of gender work at field level. She expressed appreciation to NDMA Management for supporting the initiative, describing it as a clear demonstration of leadership’s commitment to equity, inclusion and people-centred disaster management.

The nationwide engagement aligns with NDMA’s broader mandate to build resilient communities through inclusive, coordinated and evidence-based disaster risk management across Sierra Leone.

Court Remands ‘Bobson 5-0’ for Alleged Armed Robbery Attempt on Priest in Kailahun

A 26-year-old unemployed man, Ansu Bockarie, popularly known as “Bobson 5-0,” has been remanded in custody after allegedly attacking and attempting to rob a Catholic priest in Pendembu Town, Kailahun District.

The accused made his first appearance on Monday, 2 February 2026, before Magistrate Court No. 1, presided over by His Worship Magistrate Hadiru Daboh, where he was formally charged on five counts relating to a violent armed attack.

According to the charge sheet, Ansu Bockarie faces allegations of attempted robbery with aggravation, housebreaking, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, wounding with intent and wounding, contrary to provisions of the Larceny Act of 1916 and the Offences Against the Person Act of 1861.

Police Prosecutor Sgt. 10734 David Idriss told the court that on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, the accused allegedly armed himself with a shovel and forcefully entered the St. Mary’s Parish Mission House in the Vaama Section of Pendembu Town, Upper Bambara Chiefdom, Kailahun District. The prosecution alleges that Ansu Bockarie attempted to rob Rev. Fr. James Joshua Jamiru and in the process inflicted serious injuries on the priest.

The prosecution further stated that the accused unlawfully broke into the cleric’s residence with intent to commit a felony and assaulted the victim, resulting in grievous bodily harm.

In support of its case, the prosecution tendered medical and police reports, nine witness statements, the charged statement of the accused and physical exhibits, including an old shovel and an old machete, which were presented before the court. The State indicated reliance on Section 112(b), paragraph (2) of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1964.

After hearing the submissions, the Magistrate refused bail and ordered that the accused be remanded at the Sierra Leone Correctional Centre.

The matter has been adjourned to 10 February 2026 for further hearing.

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