By: Aminata Sesay
The Parliament of Sierra Leone has unanimously adopted a resolution welcoming the Government’s decision to discontinue criminal proceedings against former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, describing the move as a significant step toward strengthening national reconciliation, political stability, and democratic consolidation.
The resolution also called for renewed efforts to promote national unity and urged the Government to provide support for the families of members of the security forces and other citizens affected by the events of 26 November 2023.
The private member’s motion was moved by the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Sahr Matthew Nyuma, and seconded by the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo.
Presenting the motion, Hon. Nyuma said the Government’s decision, through the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, to discontinue the proceedings against Dr. Koroma demonstrated a commitment to placing peace, national interest, and reconciliation above political differences.
He noted that former Heads of State remain important national assets whose experience and influence can contribute to nation-building, democratic development, and peacebuilding.
Hon. Nyuma stressed that Sierra Leone’s democratic progress depends on resolving political disagreements through dialogue, constitutional processes, and democratic institutions.
The resolution recalled Sierra Leone’s long journey toward peace and democratic governance, referencing key national peace frameworks, including the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) recommendations, the Abidjan Peace Accord, and the Lomé Peace Agreement, as important foundations for justice, reconciliation, and national cohesion.
Parliament also paid tribute to those who lost their lives or sustained injuries during the events of 26 November 2023, particularly members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), and other citizens.
The House resolved that the Government should establish a comprehensive compensation, welfare, and support programme for the families of security personnel and other public officers affected by the incident.
Members further called on the Government to introduce legislation to safeguard the welfare and dignity of former Presidents and Vice Presidents of Sierra Leone, noting that the office of a former Head of State deserves respect consistent with the traditions and values of the Republic of Sierra Leone.
While acknowledging the legal proceedings that had involved former President Koroma, Parliament reaffirmed its commitment to the supremacy of the Constitution, the independence of the judiciary, and the principle of the equal application of the law.
Contributing to the debate, Hon. Daniel Koroma defended the Attorney General and Minister of Justice’s decision to discontinue the proceedings, citing constitutional provisions that grant the Attorney General prosecutorial discretion.
He argued that prosecutorial discretion is recognized in democratic justice systems and may be exercised when it is considered to be in the interest of national stability and the public good.
Hon. Daniel Koroma urged Members of Parliament and the public to appreciate the importance of preserving peace, recalling Sierra Leone’s painful civil war experience and emphasizing the need to safeguard the country’s democratic gains.
During the debate, Hon. Nyuma reiterated that reconciliation must be genuine and reflected through concrete actions. He described Parliament as the appropriate institution for resolving national disagreements through dialogue, consensus-building, and constructive engagement.
He also urged political parties to avoid allowing partisan differences to divide the nation, stating that political parties should serve as vehicles for ideas, development, and national progress.
Supporting the motion, the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, said the Opposition endorsed the resolution because of its significance for peace, reconciliation, and national stability.
He commended both the Government and Parliament for fostering an environment that encouraged dialogue and cooperation, describing the resolution as an important milestone in Sierra Leone’s democratic development.
Hon. Kargbo added that reconciliation requires sincerity, mutual respect, and sustained commitment, stressing that political differences should never undermine national peace.
Hon. Tawa Conteh also called on political leaders to protect Sierra Leone’s democratic gains and ensure that political disagreements do not threaten national stability.
He urged Members to support initiatives that promote peace, unity, responsible governance, and national cohesion, emphasizing that today’s leaders have a responsibility to leave a legacy of reconciliation for future generations.
Following the debate, the Clerk of Parliament laid the vetted copies of the resolution before the House for consideration.
The resolution was subsequently adopted unanimously, with the Speaker declaring that the “Ayes” had it. It will now be transmitted to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and other relevant authorities for consideration and appropriate action.
The resolution also acknowledged ongoing efforts by the Government and political parties to strengthen dialogue, reconciliation, and national unity. It called on political parties, religious institutions, civil society organizations, traditional authorities, and citizens to continue supporting initiatives that promote peaceful coexistence, national cohesion, and democratic governance.
The unanimous adoption of the resolution marked a notable moment in Parliament, with lawmakers from both the Government and the Opposition affirming that peace, reconciliation, and national unity must remain above political differences in the national interest.