By Saidu Jalloh
Former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma’s treason trial, scheduled to recommence on March 6th, 2024, following a court adjournment, faces another twist as his legal team seeks an extension of his medical leave. Koroma was granted clearance to travel to Nigeria for up to three months to receive medical treatment, complicating the proceedings.
The trial stems from Koroma’s alleged involvement in an attempted coup on November 26th, 2023, where gunmen attacked military barracks, a prison, and other locations in Sierra Leone. The attack resulted in the freeing of approximately 2,200 inmates and the death of over 20 people. The government later attributed the coup attempt primarily to Koroma’s bodyguards.
Since then, Koroma has been summoned for questioning and granted bail, with restrictions confining him to his home in Freetown. However, his lawyers have now filed for an extension of his medical leave, indicating a potential further delay in the trial. This move underscores the ongoing legal battle surrounding the former president’s alleged involvement in the coup attempt.
The appeal for adjournment and extension of medical leave signals that the treason trial against Koroma remains unresolved and is likely to face continued delays. As the legal proceedings continue, tensions are high, and the outcome of the trial will have significant implications for the political landscape of Sierra Leone. Former President Koroma is currently seeking refuge in Nigeria on the grounds of seeking medical attention.
