The Brenthurst Foundation has expressed deep concern over the summoning of former President Ernest Bai Koroma for questioning regarding the recent “failed coup attempt” in Sierra Leone.
The Foundation made this stance in a statement released on Thursday 14 December 2023.
The Foundation highlights the alarming incidents of armed gunmen attempting to breach Sierra Leone’s key armoury and the subsequent prison break that reportedly freed around 2000 inmates.
The elected government of Sierra Leone, along with The Brenthurst Foundation, condemns these actions, considering them assaults on democracy by unelected military assailants.
In response to the summons, The Brenthurst Foundation raises apprehensions about potential destabilization through what it labels a “witchhunt” by the authorities.
Former President Koroma, known for his commitment to democracy, is emphasized as a member of The Brenthurst Foundation Advisory Board, recognized for peacefully relinquishing power to opponents and leading election-observation missions across Africa.
The Foundation appeals to the Sierra Leonean government to reconsider its approach, suggesting collaboration with former President Koroma to strengthen democracy in the country and the broader region.
Greg Mills, Director of The Brenthurst Foundation, urges a more inclusive strategy, stating, “We believe him to be a man of integrity and standing and find it hard to believe that he would be involved in or support the undermining of democracy in Sierra Leone.”
The Brenthurst Foundation is a Johannesburg-based think-tank which examines ways to drive Africa’s sustainable growth. Founded in 2005, the Foundation is at the frontier of new ideas and innovative actions for strengthening Africa’s economic performance.
