By: James Kamara-Manneh
The mouthpiece of President Bio’s government Chernor Bah has stated clearly that ECOWAS proposal for the relocation of former President Ernest Bai Koroma to Nigeria has been discountenanced.
After 11 years of rule, former President Ernest Bai Koroma of Sierra Leone now faces a tumultuous situation. The recent turn of events includes house arrest, a CID investigation into his alleged involvement in the failed attempted coup on November 26, and charges brought against him for treasonous offenses. If found guilty, he could face life imprisonment.
The attempted coup in November 2023 led to the loss of many security personnel lives, and subsequent investigations implicated past and active security personnel linked to the former president. Following an invitation by the Sierra Leone Police to clarify allegations, Koroma was placed under house arrest. After weeks of intensive investigations, he was officially charged with treason.
Social media buzzed with a purported press release from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), suggesting a request for the former president’s political exile in Nigeria. ECOWAS argued that relocating Koroma to Abuja would allow the judiciary ample time to conduct a fair trial, fostering peace in Sierra Leone and the wider African region.
Sierra Leone’s Foreign Minister, Timothy Kabba, confirmed receiving the ECOWAS letter but expressed the government’s rejection of the proposition, considering it a unilateral move by the ECOWAS Commission President. The government, he stated, would not accept such a proposal.
However, Sierra Leoneans find the idea of relocating Koroma baseless and unacceptable. They fear it may escalate political tensions, sow suspicion among the people, and adversely impact the country’s economy. Concerns revolve around potential economic and social provisions made for the former president during his exile.
Sierra Leoneans, both at home and abroad, anxiously await the unfolding of this episode, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law in addressing those involved in the failed coup, regardless of their status.