The trial of Ernest Bai Koroma, the former President of Sierra Leone, is poised to resume on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, following a two-month adjournment since January. Koroma faces a four-count charge related to his alleged involvement in the overthrow of the Sierra Leonean government on November 26, 2023. The charges include treason, misprision of treason, and harboring123.
Koroma’s legal team has vehemently rejected these charges, labeling them as a “dangerous precedent.” Lead Counsel Joseph Kamara contends that dragging a democratically elected former head of state through such charges casts a dark shadow over the nation. He asserts that the allegations are part of a political vendetta.
In response to the charges, Judge Samuel O. Taylor deliberated and granted bail to Koroma under specific conditions. These conditions include limiting the number of individuals at Dr. Koroma’s residence to a maximum of 10 people at any time. This group comprises his wife, children, lawyers, and political party members. Additionally, the former President is barred from leaving his residence without explicit permission from the Inspector-General of Police1.
On January 17, Koroma was granted permission to depart Sierra Leone for urgent medical treatment. This decision followed a successful bail review application submitted by his legal team, seeking a ninety-day allowance for his overseas medical attentionJustice S.O. Taylor examined the bail conditions and authorized Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, currently facing charges of treason and others, to travel abroad for medical treatment.
Subsequently, Koroma traveled to Nigeria for medical treatment. However, it remains uncertain whether his upcoming court appearance will proceed as scheduled, given his current medical absence
