The high-profile treason trial of Amadu Koita and eleven co-defendants has advanced significantly, with Justice Komba Kamanda finalizing the selection of a twelve-person jury to aid in the proceedings.
After a painstaking process of vetting potential jurors, during which the accused vigorously objected to and dismissed twenty-one candidates, a final twelve-person panel has been established to support Justice Kamanda throughout the trial.
The accused, including notable figures such as Amadu Koita Makolo, Mohamed Jalloh, and Sergeant 10020 Emmanuel Salifu Kamara, face a total of 20 charges, ranging from Treason to Murder and Unauthorized wearing of military uniform.
The indictments allege a conspiracy to unlawfully overthrow the government between November 5 and 26, 2023, with specific accusations of murder and other treason-related activities.
Among the charges, Koita and Jalloh are accused of the murder of Corporal Kai Mondeh of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) on November 26, 2023.
Additionally, several defendants, including ASP Ibrahim Sesay and Ramatu Kamanda Conteh, are charged with concealing treasonous activities.
In a dramatic courtroom scene, all twelve accused individuals pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The Director of Public Prosecution, O. I. Kanu, requested a brief adjournment to prepare witnesses, as well as an interpreter for their testimony.
Defense lawyers also raised concerns, including a health-related application and limited visitation rights for the accused.
After heated debate, Justice Kamanda ruled in favor of granting defense counsel access to their clients within Correctional Service rules, emphasizing the importance of upholding legal procedures.
With the trial scheduled to reconvene on Monday, February 12, 2024, tensions are high as Sierra Leone awaits further developments in this unprecedented legal battle. Stay tuned for updates as the trial unfolds.
