Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has sought to allay concerns among the public regarding the medical leave granted to Former President Koroma, currently on trial for his alleged involvement in the failed coup on November 26, 2023.
President Bio emphasized that this does not exempt Koroma from ongoing legal proceedings.
During a national address on Thursday, President Bio stated, “It reinforces our position that the trial is not a political witch hunt but one aimed at unraveling the truth behind the events of November 26th, 2023.”
He urged citizens to embrace peace and collaborate with the government to facilitate economic recovery, saying, “My government will continue to work with all stakeholders to achieve sustainable peace and encourage private capital investment in Sierra Leone.”
Former President Koroma, facing treason charges related to the failed coup, had sought temporary leave during a court hearing on January 17.
President Bio clarified, “The Attorney General vehemently opposed the application,” emphasizing the court’s role in deciding such matters based on the principle of the separation of powers.
In a surprising turn of events, the High Court ruled in favor of Koroma on Wednesday, granting him permission to travel to Nigeria for medical reasons for a maximum of three months. The case has been adjourned until March 6.
The November 26 attacks in Sierra Leone, orchestrated by gunmen who targeted key facilities, resulted in the release of approximately 2,200 inmates and claimed over 20 lives. 12 individuals, including former police and correctional officers, as well as a member of Koroma’s security detail, face treason charges in connection with the coup attempt.
Concerns linger about the potential impact of Koroma’s indictment on post-election tensions from the contentious June election, where President Bio secured a second term amid opposition disputes and international scrutiny.
Two months after the re-election, authorities arrested individuals, including senior military officers, accused of planning protests “to undermine peace.”
