The much-anticipated swearing-in of the newly elected Paramount Chief of Kholifa Mabang Chiefdom, Imran Kamara, has taken a dramatic twist as three of the alleged petitioners have disassociated themselves from a legal case challenging the election results.
The Chiefdom, located in Tonkolili District in Sierra Leone’s Northeast region, has been engulfed in controversy since a petition was filed against the October 26th, 2024, elections, alleging irregularities. The case, brought to the High Court of Sierra Leone, names five candidates as petitioners: Abdul Balie Kamara, Mohamed Raka Kamara, John Speedo Kamara, Patrick Kamara, and Augustine Mohamed Kamara.
The petition claims that the election, conducted under the oversight of the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone, the Provincial Secretary of the Northeast region, and the District Officer of Tonkolili District, lacked credibility due to alleged irregularities. Petitioners reportedly sought to prevent the swearing-in of Kamara, which is scheduled for November 29th, 2024, pending a court hearing.
However, in a surprising development, three of the alleged petitioners—Patrick Kamara, John Speedo Kamara, and Augustine Mohamed Kamara—have denied any involvement in the case.
In separate online interviews, the trio expressed shock and anger at discovering their names listed in the court documents.
John Speedo Kamara, one of the alleged petitioners, dismissed the claims, saying, “I already congratulated the newly elected Paramount Chief right after his election. How can I turn around and petition him? This is madness.”
Patrick Kamara voiced his intention to take legal action against those behind what he called a fraudulent act. “I have consulted my lawyer. I will sue anyone responsible for using my name in a case I know nothing about,” he stated.
Augustine Mohamed Kamara echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that he was not consulted about any petition.
The revelation has sparked public outcry in Kholifa Mabang Chiefdom, with residents questioning how the names of prominent individuals could be used in a legal case without their consent. Speculation is rife about political meddling, with fingers pointed at a member of the ruling party who is allegedly manipulating the situation for personal gain.
The incident has become a talking point in the Chiefdom, raising concerns about transparency and integrity in the chieftaincy process.
As the swearing-in date approaches, residents of Kholifa Mabang are urging the judiciary to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure justice is served. They are calling on the authorities to address the misuse of names in the petition and to uphold the integrity of the chieftaincy system.
For now, all eyes remain on the judiciary as the Chiefdom braces for the official installation of Imran Kamara as Paramount Chief, a move seen by many as a step toward stability and progress.
