On Wednesday January 3, 2024, former President Ernest Bai Koroma has been granted bail by a high court order following his appearance before a magistrate on charges of treason. The ex-president will return home with the existing restrictions under which he has been placed for the past weeks. His case has been adjourned to January 17, 2024.
Koroma faces a total of four charges, including treason, misprision of treason, and two counts of harbouring. His lawyer, Joseph Kamara, has characterized the charges as “trumped up.”
In an official communication, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, has informed His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, of the outcomes of a high-level ECOWAS delegation’s visit to Freetown on December 23, led by the Presidents of Ghana and Senegal.
According to the statement, the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has graciously offered to host His Excellency Ernest Bai Koroma, the former President of Sierra Leone, in Abuja on a temporary basis. The offer has been accepted by President Koroma and, pending approval from President Bio, arrangements are underway for the former president’s departure from Freetown on January 4, 2024. President Koroma will be joined by his office manager and personal assistant.
The communication also seeks confirmation from President Bio regarding the agreed conditions of the former president’s departure. These conditions include the cessation of all legal and administrative procedures against Former President Koroma by the Government of Sierra Leone, the continuation of disbursing his benefits as former president, security for his residences within Sierra Leone, and consideration of refunding his medical and travel expenses.
The temporary relocation initiative is part of the ECOWAS’s effort to ensure the stability and harmony within the region. Dr. Touray has expressed his hope for a favorable response from President Bio and has reiterated the ECOWAS Commission’s highest consideration.
The statement also acknowledges the involvement of ECOWAS leaders including H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, H.E. President Nana Akufo-Ado, and H.E. President Macky Sall in the deliberative mission that led to this agreement.
On 3rd January, 2024, Orange Mobile Finance has issued a public statement clarifying its position regarding recent unauthorized activities associated with Super Advertis. The company has confirmed that it does not have any contractual relationship with Super Advertis and that there are no accounts under the name of Super Advertis frozen within the Orange Money platform.
The company has reiterated that all Orange Money agents, dealers, and partners are contractually bound to operate within specific guidelines, and any deviation results in regulatory actions to protect the interests of customers. This is part of Orange Mobile Finance’s commitment to maintain a secure and trustworthy environment for its users.
Customers who may have unknowingly transacted with Super Advertis through the Orange Money service are being advised to contact the agent they dealt with to initiate the refund process. Orange Mobile Finance ensures that all its agents are equipped with the necessary processes for resolving operational challenges, including direct communication with the company’s back-office support.
Orange Mobile Finance has also addressed concerns regarding social media posts by Super Advertis that have incited the public to damage the company’s property and premises. The company strongly condemns these incitements and urges Super Advertis to stop promoting such harmful behavior.
Upholding legal and ethical standards is a cornerstone of Orange Mobile Finance’s operations. The company continues to operate with transparency and adherence to Sierra Leonean laws and regulations, reinforcing its status as a reputable entity in the international finance domain.
The company reiterates its willingness to collaborate with all legally established companies interested in forming a partnership in Sierra Leone. Orange Mobile Finance is committed to serving its customers with utmost integrity and assures the public of its unwavering dedication to ethical business practices.
In a stirring display of global recognition, the Republic of Sierra Leone has secured its place on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as an Elected Non-Permanent Member for the second time in the nation’s history. This momentous occasion, which took effect on January 1st, 2024, stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Government of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio to the cause of global peace and security.
Sierra Leone’s return to the UNSC is widely regarded as a powerful acknowledgment of the nation’s remarkable progress, particularly under the leadership of President Bio. It serves as a shining symbol for nations that have triumphed over adversity, resonating with hope and determination.
In light of this pivotal achievement, the Government and the resilient people of Sierra Leone have pledged to utilize their position to contribute to an effective tenure on the UNSC. Furthermore, they have reaffirmed their dedication to Africa’s Common Agenda for UNSC reform, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to advancing the continent’s interests on the international stage.
The historic occasion has been met with widespread celebration and pride across Sierra Leone, as the nation once again assumes its role as a key player in shaping global peace and security.
🗓 Join the UNSC Flag Installation Ceremony of the newly-elected members of the United Nations Security Council live today at 12:00 Noon New York time zone via UN WebTV: webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1d/k…
The Government of Sierra Leone, on January 2, 2024, has taken decisive legal action against 12 individuals, including former law enforcement officers, in relation to the attempted coup on November 26, 2023. These charges were confirmed through a public announcement issued by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education.
Among the accused, Amadu Koita and his associates, some of whom previously served as police and correctional officers, have been formally charged with a series of severe offenses, including treason, misprision of treason, and aiding and abetting the enemy.
The legal proceedings have begun at the Magistrate Court No. 2 in Freetown, presided over by Magistrate Santigie Bangura. Eleven of the defendants were present for the arraignment. However, Bai Mahmoud Bangura was notably absent due to a reported illness and is receiving treatment at the Kingtom Police Hospital Consequently, the hearing has been adjourned to January 9, 2024. The court record noted that each of the accused had legal representation.
In the public notice signed by Chernor Bah, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, it was indicated that more charges against additional perpetrators may be forthcoming. The Ministry has committed to keeping the public informed about the progress of the investigations and the legal proceedings aimed at delivering justice for the actions of November 26, 2023.
With these charges, the Republic of Sierra Leone demonstrates its resolve to confront any threats against its democratic order and to maintain the integrity of its legal system. The public will be updated as the case evolves and further information becomes available.
The medical community of Sierra Leone mourns the death of one of its most esteemed members, Dr. Edward Ali Nahim, who passed away on January 1, 2024 at the age of 79. A beacon of hope in the field of mental health care, Dr. Nahim’s commitment to his country and profession has left an enduring legacy.
Born in Port Loko on December 12, 1944, Dr. Nahim’s journey from the vibrant northern communities of Sierra Leone to the forefront of psychiatry is a testament to his dedication and resolve. His academic endeavors took him from the classrooms of Church of England School in Pepel and Schlenker Secondary School to the halls of a Soviet university, where he earned his MD in 1972.
Upon returning home, Dr. Nahim joined the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, initiating a lifelong pursuit to improve mental health services in Sierra Leone. His expertise deepened with a Diploma in Psychological Medicine from the UK, and he served as the sole consultant psychiatrist in the early stages of his career, facing formidable challenges with unyielding perseverance.
Dr. Nahim’s work became particularly crucial during the harrowing years of the civil war, where he not only treated those suffering from mental illness but also played a vital role in the demobilization and rehabilitation of child soldiers.
Despite retiring, Dr. Nahim’s passion never waned as he continued to lecture and consult, shaping the future of psychiatry in Sierra Leone. He was a strong advocate for better funding, training, and facilities for psychiatric care throughout his over 35-year career.
The late psychiatrist’s dedication to serving without charge and his advocacy for more government support are hallmarks of his career that transformed the psychiatric landscape in Sierra Leone. Dr. Nahim’s unwavering commitment to his patients and his profession will be deeply missed.
As we bid farewell to a man who dedicated his life to the service of others, our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and the many lives he touched. Dr. Edward Ali Nahim’s legacy will continue to inspire and influence the field of mental health care in Sierra Leone for generations to come.
In an uplifting Christmas Day address, His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone on Monday December 25, 2023, affirmed his dedication to the nation’s development amidst rising economic uncertainties and global disruptions.
President Bio recognized the difficult year marked by rising living costs, economic instability, and the lingering effects of the global pandemic. He acknowledged the additional strain caused by the Russia-Ukraine crisis and the challenges of implementing monetary policy to combat global inflation. He emphasized that these issues pose even more daunting tasks for developing nations like Sierra Leone.
Despite these challenges, the President expressed gratitude for the blessings of the year and called on his fellow citizens to do the same. He insisted that unity, understanding, and shared humanity are the true essence of the Sierra Leone community, especially in these trying times.
President Bio highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to mitigating these global upheavals, outlining their proactive steps over the past year. These include significant investments in Human Capital Development and initiatives such as monthly cash transfers through the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) to support the most impoverished households.
In his address, the President also touched on recent threats to Sierra Leone’s hard-won democracy. He praised the brave Security Forces who defended the nation and thanked every Sierra Leonean who stood for peace and democracy, particularly during the unsettling events of November 26th.
President Bio expressed his deep gratitude to public servants, armed forces, security services, investors, and the youth of the nation. He honored the roles women play in holding families and the nation together and recognized the hard work of men as cornerstones of the community.
Addressing the escalating ‘Kush’ crisis facing the youth, President Bio reassured the nation of the government’s steadfast dedication to finding enduring solutions. He also acknowledged the irreplaceable role of traditional and religious leaders in providing guidance and spiritual support.
The President urged his fellow Sierra Leoneans to remember the less fortunate during the festive season and to extend their famed warmth to all, regardless of beliefs or backgrounds. He also expressed gratitude to service members and essential workers who continue to work tirelessly over the holidays.
President Bio concluded his address by wishing all Sierra Leoneans, both at home and abroad, a joyous Christmas. He called for a renewed commitment to each other and the nation, expressing confidence in a brighter future for Sierra Leone.
NP (SL) Limited, the premier importer and distributor of petroleum products in Sierra Leone, has announced a proactive initiative to address the impending fuel scarcity. To ensure a consistent supply for consumers, the Company has received a substantial consignment of 30,000 metric tons of petroleum products in the country.
This shipment comprises a diverse range of fuels. Specifically, it includes 11,000 metric tons of petrol aboard the VMT Papillon and 19,000 metric tons of diesel facilitated by the MT Marlin Aqua Marine, which recently docked at Kissy Terminal in Freetown on Saturday, December 23, 2023. NP has consistently maintained its reputation as the foremost petroleum importing and marketing entity in Sierra Leone by consistently delivering the largest fuel consignments over the years.
In another development, NP Sierra Leone has initiated the supply of 5,000 metric tons of fuel to the Republic of Guinea. Representatives from the Republic of Guinea have dispatched fuel tankers to load the consignment, further reinforcing this partnership. The process was overseen by the Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Hon. Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Madam Fatmata Wurie, and officials from the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) during their visit to the NP SL Terminal on December 22, 2023.
Kobi Walker, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NP-SL Ltd, highlighted the challenges regarding foreign exchange and pricing while reaffirming the company’s commitment to maintaining adequate petroleum product stocks in the country. He clarified a previous statement attributed to the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA), emphasizing that NP and Leoneoil are the primary importers of petroleum products, while other oil marketing companies rely extensively on NP for support and procurement.
“As a responsible corporate citizen, NP remains dedicated to ensuring abundant supplies of petroleum products across Sierra Leone. Our goal is to consistently fulfill the nation’s fuel requirements,” stated Kobi Walker.
Dr. Williette James, the Communications Manager, emphasized that the arrival of these products will guarantee a sufficient fuel supply throughout and beyond the festive season. The company is geared towards timely delivery to filling stations nationwide, mitigating potential shortages that could disrupt daily life.
NP-SL Ltd, continuing its influential role in the country’s energy sector, aims to sustain an uninterrupted fuel supply, prioritizing the welfare of the Sierra Leonean populace.
Ahmed H. Hashim, the esteemed CEO of VIP Trading Company, is set to mark his 24th birthday on December 24th, 2023. Renowned for his business prowess and commitment to societal development, Hashim has been an instrumental figure in the transformation of Sierra Leone’s business landscape.
As the Chairman, Director General, and Proprietor of V.I.P Trading Company SL Ltd, and concurrently serving as the Managing Director of Amoula & Sons Trading SL Ltd, Hashim has not only established himself as a prominent businessman but has also contributed significantly to the infrastructural development of the Sierra Leone Police Force.
Beyond his corporate success, Hashim is revered within the Sierra Leonean community for his dedication to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and his unwavering support for the nation’s youth empowerment initiatives. His philanthropic endeavors and genuine commitment to uplifting the less privileged have earned him the moniker ‘The Poor Man’s Friend.’
Hashim’s dedication to the betterment of Sierra Leone goes beyond mere words. He has pledged to continue his efforts, stating, “I am a Sierra Leonean. I will do all in my power to advance this country and its people. I am always ready to help the oppressed because it is not their making but the will of God.”
Acknowledging the supportive environment fostered by the Sierra Leonean Government for business growth, Hashim has encouraged both businesses and individuals to collaborate with the government in realizing developmental projects aimed at transforming the country.
Recently, Hashim received a prestigious national award for Service Delivery at the 6th annual awards ceremony of the Bai Bureh Heritage Foundation. This recognition underscores his outstanding performance, particularly in ensuring a consistent and quality supply of rice to the Sierra Leone Police, solidifying VIP’s reputation as a reliable provider.
Hashim’s commitment to delivering quality rice has not only earned him accolades but has also attracted interest from various sectors. His successful execution of the rice supply contract for the Police Force has sparked recommendations from the Correctional Services and other institutions to consider VIP for their respective supply needs.
VIP Trading Company’s consistent and superior quality rice supply has not gone unnoticed. The company’s dedication to fulfilling its contracts has significantly contributed to its burgeoning popularity and earned Hashim admiration for his unparalleled service delivery in the sector.
The Bai Bureh Service Delivery Awards, a platform recognizing exceptional service delivery, rightfully honors Hashim’s impactful contributions toward Sierra Leone’s progress. His unwavering dedication and business acumen continue to set a high standard for service excellence across the nation.
Fatmata Bangura, a respected member of both the Western Area and Sierra Leone National Football Referee Associations, is making a public plea for assistance as she battles a severe medical condition. The situation emerged during her participation in a referee in-service training in Portloko, in the run-up to last year’s Sierra Leone Premier League.
With a fervor for football, Bangura has dedicated countless hours and substantial personal funds to officiating matches over several years. Her commitment, however, has now been halted by a pressing health issue that demands immediate medical attention – a cost she cannot shoulder alone. Consequently, she is reaching out for financial support to facilitate necessary treatment and enable her swift return to the game she loves.
Bangura revealed that the incident took place during a standard exercise at the Premier League referees’ seminar in Portloko. She had an unfortunate fall, landing on a stone that pierced her back. Though the stone was promptly removed, she has since been plagued by intense pain and complications. With her savings from the Sierra Leone Premier League and other local football competitions depleted, her condition is yet to improve. Currently, she requires Le 3,000 for a CT scan at Choithram Hospital, a critical step in assessing whether she requires physiotherapy or surgical intervention.
In this difficult time, Bangura is appealing to the wider football community and sports enthusiasts to rally behind her. Donations of any size will significantly contribute to her medical costs, ensuring her return to the field where her passion lies.
Those interested in supporting Fatmata Bangura in her recovery journey can reach out to her at +232 74 820772 via WhatsApp or direct call.
