Sierra Leone Treason Trial Ends with Convictions for Eleven Accused

July 24, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant development, all individuals standing trial for treason in Sierra Leone, including Amadu Koita Makalo, Mohamed Jalloh, Sgt. Mohamed Salifu Kamara, Ramatu Kanda Conteh, Alimatu Hassan Bangura, Hassan Leigh, Mohamed Wurrie, ASP Ibrahim Sesay, Tamba Yamba, Kabba Kamara and Abdul Sorie Hassan Kamara, have been found guilty.

The accused were convicted on Counts 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20. However, no verdict has been reached on Counts 13 and 14, which involve another accused, Bai Mamoud Bangura, currently out on bail.

The charges against the accused included treason and other offenses for their roles in what authorities described as an attempted coup on November 26, 2023. A twelve-member jury unanimously returned a guilty verdict against all eleven accused on July 22, 2024.

In his address to the jurors before they deliberated, Hon. Justice Komba Kamanda emphasized the importance of their duty to ensure justice with integrity, fairness, and independence.

“Your sacred duty in this trial is to apply the law as directed. The evidence from both the prosecution and the defense has been presented. Your responsibility is to ensure that justice is manifestly and undoubtedly seen to be done,” stated Hon. Justice Kamanda.

The convicted individuals, now facing significant sentences, include:

– Amadu Koita Makalo (1st Convict): 52 years each on counts 1 and 2, 40 years each on counts 3-6, and 60 years each on counts 17-19, totaling 162 years.

– Mohamed Jalloh (2nd Convict): 52 years each on counts 1 and 2, 70 years each on counts 3-6, 60 years each on counts 17-19, and 4 years on count 20.

– Sgt. 10020 Emmanuel Salifu Kamara (3rd Convict): 52 years each on counts 1 and 2, 40 years on count 7.

– Ramatu Kamanda Conteh (4th Convict): 30 years on count 10.

– Alimatu Hassan Bangura (5th Convict): 60 years on count 8, 5 years on count 9.

– Hassan Leigh (6th Convict): 35 years on count 11, 4 years on count 12.

– Mohamed Wurrie (7th Convict): 52 years each on counts 1 and 2.

– ASP Ibrahim Sesay (9th Convict): 40 years on count 15, 4 years on count 16.

– Tamba Yamba (10th Convict): 52 years each on counts 1 and 2, 60 years on count 19.

– Kabba Kamara (11th Convict): 52 years each on counts 1 and 2, 60 years on count 19.

– Abdul Sorie Hassan Kamara (12th Convict): 52 years each on counts 1 and 2, 60 years on count 19.

During the trial, the judge agreed to separate the trial of Bai Mahmoud Bangura, the 8th accused, from the others.

Several convicts, including Ramatu Kamanda Conteh, pleaded for mercy, citing personal circumstances. However, State Counsel A. J. M. Bockarie argued that the sentences should serve as a deterrent to future coup attempts.

Handing down his sentence, Hon. Justice Kamanda emphasized that the judgment should serve as a deterrent to those who conspire to overthrow a constitutionally elected Government.

The prosecution alleged that the accused conspired to seize and control key military and governmental facilities in Freetown and to overthrow the Government by unlawful means between November 5 and November 26, 2023.

As the treason trial of Amadu Koita Makalo and 11 others reached its conclusion, Hon. Justice Komba Kamanda issued a poignant reminder to the jury, emphasizing their critical role in upholding justice.

“Mr. foreman and members of the jury, may I remind you that your sacred duty in this trial is to apply the law as I have directed you. The entirety of the evidence from the prosecution and the defence was adduced before you. The responsibility entrusted upon you is sacred, to ensure that justice is manifestly and undoubtedly seen to be done with integrity, fairness and independence, which is the bastion of our judicial system,” Hon. Justice Kamanda stated.

The judge’s remarks underscored the importance of the jury’s role in delivering a verdict that reflects the principles of justice and the integrity of the judicial system.

IGR Launches Afrobarometer Flagship Report on African Democracy

July 24, 2024

By Millicent Senava Mannah

The Institute of Governance Reform (IGR) marked the 25th anniversary of Afrobarometer with the launch of its Flagship Report on democracy across Africa. This significant event took place on Monday, July 22, 2024, at the Institute’s Conference Room on Spur Road in Freetown.

The report, encompassing data from 39 countries, reveals robust support for democracy on the continent. Two-thirds (66%) of Africans expressed a preference for democracy over any other system of Government. Furthermore, large majorities reject autocratic forms of governance, with 80% opposing one-man rule, 78% rejected one-party rule and 66% disapproved of military rule.

Afrobarometer’s methodology includes face-to-face interviews conducted in the respondent’s preferred language, ensuring accurate and representative results. The nationally representative samples yield country-level findings with a margin of error between +/-2 to +/-3 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

In Sierra Leone, the Afrobarometer report indicates that 84% of citizens favor democracy over other forms of Government and a significant 93% rejected one-man rule. Additionally, 84% of respondents opposed military rule, 53% believed the armed forces should stay out of politics, 89% rejected one-party rule and 54% supported multiparty competition.

Dr. Fredline M’Cormack-Hale, Co-Principal Investigator for IGR, highlighted key insights from the report: 72% of the population supported presidential term limits, and 71% prioritized accountability over efficient Government. Moreover, 56% of respondents believed the media should be free from Government control.

The report also revealed that 69% of Sierra Leoneans perceive their country as a democracy (either full or with minor issues) and 56% are fairly or very satisfied with the state of democracy. Furthermore, 65% say the President rarely or never disregards Parliament, laws, and courts. However, only 19% feel that elected Members of Parliament often listen to citizens, and just 23% think local government councillors frequently engage with the public.

Corruption remains a concern, with 47% believing there is some corruption in the presidency and 31% considering most or all officials to be corrupt. Conversely, 15% believe none are corrupt, while 7% either do not know or declined to comment.

Afrobarometer is a Pan-African, non-partisan survey research network that provides reliable data on Africans’ experiences and evaluations of democracy, governance and quality of life.

Leonoil Outbids Competitors in $76.4M Sierra Rutile Acquisition

July 24, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a significant move, the Board of Sierra Rutile has approved a $76.4 million takeover bid by the indigenous Sierra Leonean company, Leonoil Company Limited. The announcement was made on Sunday, July 21, via the Australian Stock Market.

This development underscores Leonoil’s successful bid against competitors, including the UK-based Gemcorp and the US-based PRM Service LLC, led by Gerald Group CEO Craig Fuad Dean.

Sierra Rutile and Leonoil Company Ltd have jointly announced their entry into a Bid Implementation Agreement (BIA). Under this agreement, Leonoil will acquire all issued and outstanding shares of Sierra Rutile that it does not already own. This offer comes as an off-market takeover bid with no minimum acceptance condition.

The Leonoil bid offers a 12.5% premium to the 0.16% per share offer price made by Gemcorp Commodities Asset Holding Limited in their off-market takeover bid announced on July 1. Notably, Leonoil’s bid is not subject to any minimum acceptance condition, unlike Gemcorp’s requirement of a 51% minimum acceptance condition.

Leonoil is currently a major shareholder with a 19.85% interest in the issued and outstanding shares of Sierra Rutile. The bid implies a total undiluted equity value of Sierra Rutile at A$76.5 million. To acquire the remaining shares, Leonoil is prepared to pay up to A$61 million.

The Board of Sierra Rutile recommends that all shareholders accept the Leonoil offer. They have indicated their intent to accept the Leonoil offer for all Sierra Rutile shares they own or control, in the absence of a superior proposal.

This approval marks a pivotal moment in Sierra Rutile’s corporate history, bringing it under the stewardship of an indigenous Sierra Leonean entity, which could potentially reshape the future of the company.

As President Boakai Calls for Fair Economic Cooperation… Foreign Affairs Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Mano River Union

July 24, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, led a four-member delegation to a two-day Ministerial Dialogue held on Monday on July 22, 2024 at the EJS Ministerial Complex. Organized by Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event focused on enhancing the operations of the Mano River Union (MRU).

In his opening remarks, Timothy Kabba reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to the strategic goals of the MRU, highlighting the Union’s resilience despite facing civil wars, coups, and pandemics. The dialogue concentrated on trade, peace, security, and economic integration within the MRU.

The Minister emphasized President Bio’s legislative progress in promoting women’s rights and discussed shared bilateral ties and the sub-regional development agenda, particularly concerning climate change challenges.

He stressed the importance of mobilizing sustainable funding and financial management for the MRU’s success in fostering regional cooperation and development. Addressing the issue of funding, Timothy Kabba called for accountability and transparency within the MRU Secretariat to ensure proper management of resources.

Liberian President, Joseph Boakai, in his keynote address, underscored the need for fair economic cooperation and harmonization, particularly in agriculture, maritime, forestry, customs, and telecommunications. He urged member states to recommit to the MRU objectives established 51 years ago by Sierra Leone and Liberia. President Boakai also highlighted the critical role of the MRU in shaping trade and ensuring economic viability, calling for a review of security arrangements to enhance coordination and development.

Liberian Foreign Minister, Madam Sara Beysolow Nyanti ,welcomed the delegates and thanked President Boakai for his unwavering commitment to the Union. She praised the partners supporting the MRU and emphasized the need for strong financial contributions and partnerships for development.

Representing the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mohamed Methqal, Director General of the Morocco Agency for International Cooperation, reiterated Morocco’s unwavering support for growth and sustainability in the MRU.

The Sierra Leonean delegation included Brig. Gen. George M. Bangura, Deputy Minister Kadiatu Allie, Dr. Victoria M. Sulimani, Dr. David S. Yambasu and Safae Ndomahina.

The Ministerial Dialogue in Monrovia stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of Sierra Leone and its regional partners in advancing the objectives of the Mano River Union.

As SL Mineral Wealth Fund Under Scrutiny… The Dubious Credentials of Igor Siberud: What’s Really Behind His CV?

July 24, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

As our investigation into the Mineral Wealth Fund affair unfolds, more details have emerged about Igor Siberud, the controversial figure at the center of the scandal threatening President Bio’s well-meaning initiatives. Siberud is accused of attempting to hijack the Mineral Wealth Fund for personal gain, supported by a cadre of self-serving politicians.

His Curriculum Vitae portrays him as a “seasoned Executive with a proven track record of transforming state-owned industrial assets into profitable entities,” and as a specialist in governance, financial metrics, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). He claims an “exceptional ability to collaborate with multiple stakeholders, including Government bodies and NGOs,” and a commitment to “social responsibility, sustainability and international legal frameworks.” However, our investigation reveals no verifiable evidence that he has ever managed critical national assets or Mineral Wealth Funds.

Siberud’s assertion that he “negotiated stakeholder interests” during the Zambia Sovereign Debt Crisis remains unverified. Given Sierra Leone’s need to avoid a Mineral Wealth Fund or Sovereign Wealth crisis, his purported expertise, if it exists, may not be necessary.

Additionally, his claims to have undertaken various roles at the partially Uzbekistani state-owned company, UzmetKombinat, from 2018 to 2020 involving geological work, mine management and environmental management are doubtful as there is nothing in his CV to suggest he possesses the education, training, or experience for these positions.

His highest verifiable qualification is a High School Diploma from the Leysin American High School in Switzerland. He also states he studied Business Management and Administration at Touro College, Berlin in Germany from 2005 to 2009 but does not specify any degree or qualification obtained.

The troubling aspect for many Sierra Leoneans is that this high school diploma holder is now parading as the Chief Executive Officer of the Sierra Leone Mineral Wealth Fund. He has even updated his CV to reflect this new role. At a time when qualified Sierra Leoneans are seeking opportunities to contribute to national development, placing our Mineral Wealth Fund in the hands of a foreigner with such limited qualifications is alarming.

The situation is exacerbated by high-ranking Government officials, including Cabinet Ministers, who are determined to keep Siberud as CEO of the Mineral Wealth Fund and pressuring President Bio to sign an agreement with his company, Mount View, for their own benefit at the expense of the country’s future. Fortunately, President Bio has resisted this pressure and is carefully reviewing the agreement before making any commitment.

We pledge to continue supporting the President by providing vital information on why this deal is detrimental to the country and exposing those behind it. Our investigation into Igor Siberud and his backers in Government will persist and we will keep the public informed as more details emerge.

Mercury International Awards Prizes to Euro Championship Raffle Winners

July 24, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Mercury International, one of the country’s premier betting platforms, held a prize distribution event on Monday for winners of the online raffle tied to the recent Euro competition in Germany. The ceremony took place at the New Sella Spot on Jomo Kenyatta Road in Freetown, drawing various stakeholders and enthusiastic participants.

17 lucky winners were awarded prizes, with the grand prize being a bike valued at NLe 28,000. Other notable prizes included an HP laptop, plasma televisions and Samsung mobile phones, collectively worth approximately NLe 100,000.

Octovos, the Deputy Online Manager at Mercury International, explained that participants qualified for the raffle by playing online games between June 14 and July 14, 2024. Each ticket, costing NLe 5, had to feature at least one Euro Championship game. Players needed a minimum of 10 tickets to enter the raffle, with each entry equivalent to NLe 50. Octovos emphasized the transparency and fairness of the independently managed raffle system. He noted that the grand prize winner had entered 13 tickets, spending a total of NLe 65.

Martin Edward Michael, CEO of Mercury International, highlighted the company’s commitment to creating opportunities beyond sports, through prize giveaways and other related events. He praised the raffle for offering participants a double chance to win—both from game played and raffle entry. He also lauded the simplicity and accessibility of the online platform, mercury.com, which facilitated wide participation.

The CEO expressed his hopes that winners would find joy and utility in their prizes. He suggested that the bike could boost income through business opportunities, and the laptop could enhance productivity. The CEO hinted at upcoming activities, including an ongoing raffle ending on July 31, with a Keke as the main prize, alongside mobile phones and televisions. He said that on July 25 they will announce another draw, urging the public to stay tuned for details of another significant raffle.

The grand prize winner, Abu Koroma, shared his excitement and disbelief at winning the bike. “I never expected to win. When I received calls from Mercury International, I thought it was a prank,” he said. “I ignored the calls several times before realizing it was real. I am incredibly grateful to Mercury International for this opportunity and encourage others to participate in the games.”

He added that the bike would significantly impact his life, allowing him to improve his income. He thanked Mercury International for the chance and expressed his plans to use the prize beneficially.

Mercury International continues to demonstrate its dedication to rewarding its participants, ensuring excitement and opportunity through its innovative betting and raffle platforms.

Sierra Leone To Host Prestigious SAATM Conference, Paving the Way for Trade & Tourism Growth

July 24, 2024

Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA).jp

By Dr. Tony Morgan

Sierra Leone’s aviation and tourism sectors are set to receive a significant boost as the country hosts the prestigious Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) conference from July 29th to 30th. This event marks a monumental achievement, largely credited to the tireless efforts and exceptional expertise of Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA).

Madam Barrie, renowned for her extensive knowledge of Sierra Leone’s aviation environment, has been a key figure in the industry for over a decade. As the Country Director for Westminster Aviation Security Services (WASS), she played a pivotal role in ensuring the security and efficiency of operations at Freetown International Airport. Her close collaboration with state authorities during the 2019 ICAO Security Audit resulted in Sierra Leone achieving an impressive pass mark of 71%.

Sierra Leone’s selection as the host for the SAATM conference is a testament to Madam Barrie’s tenacity, diplomacy and profound understanding of international aviation. Her contributions have not only elevated the country’s aviation standards but also positioned Sierra Leone as a vital player on the global aviation stage.

The SAATM conference, launched by the African Union, aims to create a unified air transport market across Africa. This event presents a unique opportunity to advance air transport liberalization, fostering economic growth, connectivity and cooperation among African nations. The proposed resolution at the conference will focus on promoting bilateral agreements among participating states to enhance air transport liberalization, remove barriers, increase competition and provide better services to passengers.

This conference is a significant milestone in President Bio’s development plan, reflecting the concerted efforts of key Government stakeholders. The Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation have all played crucial roles in ensuring the successful hosting of this event. Their combined efforts, along with the leadership from the Office of the President and the Vice President, have been instrumental in bringing this grand event to Freetown.

Hosting the SAATM conference is expected to boost Sierra Leone’s trade and tourism sectors, showcasing the country’s potential to a global audience. It highlights the Government’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s connectivity and economic prospects.

As the world turns its attention to Freetown, the SAATM conference symbolizes a new era of growth and collaboration for Sierra Leone and the entire African continent. With the foundation laid by Madam Barrie’s exceptional work, Sierra Leone is poised to lead the charge in transforming Africa’s air transport landscape.

Caritas Freetown Trains Slum and Coastal Communities in Disaster Management

July 22, 2024

By Millicent Senava Mannah

Caritas Freetown, with funding support from Trocaire, has successfully completed a two-day training of trainers for stakeholders and community members from five slum and coastal communities. The event took place on July 16th and 17th, 2024, at Saint Anthony Hall on Syke Street in Freetown.

The initiative is part of a ten-month project aimed at strengthening community resilience and protecting women and girls through integrated disaster preparedness (Goal 4) and violence mitigation (Goal 3) in the Western Area of Sierra Leone. The participating communities included Lakka, Number Two, Portee Wharf, Wellington Old Wharf and Gloucester Village, with a total of seventy-five participants, including six persons with disabilities.

Idriss Gibson Mansaray, Disaster Management Focal Point at Caritas, highlighted that the training aimed to empower these communities by enhancing their resilience through integrated disaster preparedness and response. Using a problem tree analysis, participants were divided into groups to identify and categorize disasters affecting their lives and livelihoods, such as flooding, fire disasters, deforestation, stone mining and malaria.

Mohamed Sahid Conteh, National Administrative Secretary General of the Community Disaster Management Committee (CDMC), facilitated sessions on disaster risk reduction, basic disaster terminologies, community assessment, hazard and risk mapping and community timelines, among other topics.

Alie Kamara, a participant and Chairman of the Number Two community, praised Caritas and Trocaire for the timely training. He emphasized the importance of implementing preventive measures and pledged to engage his community members on the knowledge gained.

Jennifer Sesay, a participant with a disability from Gloucester, also commended the organization for the training. She highlighted deforestation as a significant issue in her community, leading to heavy winds ,unroofing houses. She committed to educating her community on the dangers of deforestation and its environmental impact.

Both participants expressed the need for the project to continue, allowing more people to benefit. The training concluded with the submission of identified problems and recommendations from the various groups.

Chinese Medical Team Achieves Breakthrough in Treating Humeral Shaft Nonunion

July 22, 2024

China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital.jpg

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a remarkable display of medical expertise, the 25th batch of the Chinese Medical Team (CMT) at the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital successfully treated a 27-year-old patient from Sierra Leone suffering from a humeral shaft nonunion.

The patient, who had sustained a comminuted fracture of the left humerus seven months prior, had developed nonunion and pseudoarticulation due to improper treatment. This condition had caused prolonged pain and significant functional limitations in the patient’s left upper limb.

Associate Professor Xiang Liang, a seasoned orthopedist with CMT, thoroughly examined the patient’s medical history. He explained that surgery was the only viable option for treating the nonunion, despite its high risks. The potential for damage to the radial nerve during surgery posed a serious challenge, as it could lead to severe consequences such as the inability to extend the wrist and fingers.

Despite the risks, the patient expressed a strong desire for surgery, placing full trust in the expertise of the Chinese doctors. Recognizing the patient’s youth and the impact of the injury on his future prospects, Dr. Xiang and Dr. Wang Hui, also from CMT, collaborated closely with the surgical team at the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital to meticulously plan and execute the procedure.

The surgery involved open reduction, internal fixation of the humerus fracture and a bone graft. The team executed each step with precision, from selecting the surgical approach to achieving intraoperative reduction and plate fixation. Their concerted efforts culminated in a successful operation, with no complications such as nerve damage and a restored function of the patient’s left upper limb.

Following the surgery, the patient expressed profound gratitude to the Chinese doctors for their role in his recovery. He credited them with restoring not only his health but also his hope for a brighter future.

Labour Minister Engages Guild of Newspaper Editors on Labour Law Compliance

July 22, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Against the backdrop of ensuring labor law compliance, the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, met with the Sierra Leone Guild of Newspaper Editors on Thursday, July 18, 2024, to discuss the implementation of the Employment Act 2023.

The Minister underscored the pivotal role journalists play as agenda setters in society. He emphasized their responsibility to inform and educate the public about labor laws, particularly concerning NASSIT contributions and to ensure compliance. “As you play your role, ensure that you are also compliant,” he admonished the media heads.

Highlighting the necessity for media alignment with these regulations, Minister Mohamed Swaray added, “Non-compliance will no longer be tolerated.” He called on the media to take its role seriously, stating, “Let’s do this for our people.” The Minister stressed that strict adherence to the new labor laws is essential for the well-being of workers and the overall progress of the nation.

The Director of Employment and Labour, Judah Bockarie, complemented the discussion with a PowerPoint presentation outlining the basic employment obligations under the new Act.

This engagement aimed to foster a collaborative effort between the Ministry and the media, ensuring that labor laws are effectively communicated and enforced, thereby promoting a fair and just working environment across Sierra Leone.

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