Freetown, Sierra Leone — The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs has officially withdrawn recognition of Alimamy Sorie II (Kathenkeh) as Paramount Chief of Kunike Barina Chiefdom in Tonkolili District, North/East Region, effective immediately.
In a Public Notice signed on Friday, 19 June 2026, by Ambassador Tamba J.S. Lamina, Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, the government cited ongoing legal and administrative issues stemming from a disputed 2010 chieftaincy election.
The notice states that continued recognition of the chief is “no longer in the best interest of the Kunike Barina Chiefdom.”
Background of the Dispute
According to the notice, Alimamy Sorie II was declared winner of the Paramount Chieftaincy election held on 14 February 2010. However, a petition filed after the election led to a court judgment on 16 April 2012 that annulled both the election result and the chieftaincy process itself.
The chief was subsequently restrained from performing the duties of Paramount Chief pending a fresh election. A Regent Chief was to be appointed under Section 3(1) of the Chieftaincy Act, 2009, to oversee the chiefdom in a caretaker capacity.
Key Provisions of the Notice
The Public Notice outlines several immediate actions:
1. Removal from Office: The official recognition of Alimamy Sorie II as Paramount Chief is withdrawn and terminated with immediate effect.
2. Vacation of Office: He is directed to relinquish all duties, privileges, and authorities associated with the position.
3. Return of Insignia: All official symbols of office, properties, and documents belonging to the chiefdom must be surrendered immediately to the Provincial Secretary.
4. Interim Arrangement: A Regent Chief will assume administrative and customary responsibilities until a new Paramount Chief is elected within six months, in accordance with customary law and state statutes.
5. Future Eligibility: The notice explicitly states that Alimamy Sorie II is not barred from contesting the upcoming Paramount Chieftaincy election.
The document was attested by Prince Alex Soriba, Senior Permanent Secretary, and calls on all government ministries, local authorities, and the public to govern themselves accordingly.
Significance
The decision marks a significant development in the long-running chieftaincy dispute in Kunike Barina Chiefdom. Paramount Chiefs play vital roles in local governance, customary law, and community leadership in Sierra Leone. The appointment of a Regent Chief is intended to ensure stability and continuity of administration during the transition period.
No immediate statement has been issued by Alimamy Sorie II or his representatives in response to the notice.
