In a significant development in Sierra Leone’s political landscape, renowned musician, model, actress, and opposition politician Zainab Sheriff, a prominent member of the All People’s Congress (APC), was remanded in custody following her first court appearance on February 23, 2026, at Pademba Road Court No. 1 before Magistrate Brima Jah.
Sheriff, widely known as “Mami Na Power” and chairperson of the Lappa Movement, a women’s empowerment initiative focused on social issues and traditional values, faces two serious charges: incitement and using threatening language, in violation of national laws.
The charges stem from alleged remarks Sheriff made regarding the disputed 2023 presidential elections, which critics describe as an “electoral coup d’état” due to the Electoral Commission’s failure to publish official results.
Reports indicate she urged followers to “follow the light,” interpreted by authorities as incitement amid ongoing tensions over election transparency. International observers, including the UN and EU, have previously criticized the polls for lacking credibility, with no congratulatory messages sent to President Julius Maada Bio.
Sheriff was declared wanted on February 14 via a police notice (warrant W/A 105/2026) and arrested six days later outside Royal Fitness Gym and Lor Restaurant in Freetown, where she was reportedly training. This marks her second high-profile detention; in 2023, she was briefly held for criticizing Bio and his wife, sparking human rights concerns.
During the hearing, prosecutor Yusif Isaac Sesay sought an adjournment to review the case file, while defense counsel pushed for bail, arguing the offenses are bailable.
The request was denied, drawing outcry from activists who view it as a crackdown on dissent.
The case resumes on February 26, amid calls for her release and broader demands for electoral accountability.
Sheriff’s supporters rally under hashtags like #FreeZainabSheriff, highlighting fears for free speech in Sierra Leone.
