By: Problyn J. Alpha
The chieftaincy institution in Kono District, particularly in Nimikoro and Tankoro chiefdoms, is reportedly facing growing tensions amid disputes involving traditional authorities, allegations of insubordination and a highly contested town chieftaincy election.
The institution, traditionally regarded as a respected and sacred authority that serves as a link between grassroots communities and the central government, is increasingly coming under scrutiny as disagreements among some traditional leaders threaten unity, community development and respect for customary leadership.
In Nimikoro Chiefdom, the reported protracted disagreement between Paramount Chief Aiah Delton Bona and his Speaker, Alhaji Abdulai Kumasy, has reportedly deepened divisions among supporters and members of their respective families.
Information reaching this medium suggests that the dispute centres on allegations of disrespect, insubordination and the alleged neglect of responsibilities assigned to the Speaker. These allegations, however, have not been independently verified.
Sources familiar with the matter claim that the disagreement has affected cooperation among community members, including participation in communal labour and other activities intended to promote the development of the chiefdom.
Some residents have expressed concern that the situation could undermine the unity, discipline and mutual respect traditionally associated with the chieftaincy institution.
The Speaker is also alleged to have neglected his official responsibilities and remained away from his office for more than a year. There are further allegations that he secretly recorded discussions between himself and the Paramount Chief and shared them with political actors, allegedly in pursuit of political favour. These claims could not be independently confirmed.
In an apparent attempt to address the situation, Paramount Chief Bona reportedly appointed a senior section chief to act as Speaker while planning to convene a chiefdom council meeting to discuss the issues and determine an appropriate course of action.
However, the Speaker reportedly challenged the move in a letter to the Paramount Chief, arguing that the Paramount Chief did not have the authority to suspend or dismiss him.
The disagreement has raised questions among some community members about the respective powers and responsibilities of the Paramount Chief and the Speaker, as well as the appropriate procedures for resolving disputes within the chiefdom’s traditional leadership structure.
Residents have called for a peaceful and lawful resolution that would restore cooperation among the chiefdom authorities and prevent the dispute from further affecting community development.
Meanwhile, tensions surrounding the chieftaincy institution in Kono District have also been reported in Tankoro Chiefdom, where the Kokoayima town chieftaincy election has reportedly experienced several postponements amid intense competition and divisions among stakeholders.
The prolonged contest has reportedly strained relationships among people who previously coexisted peacefully, raising concerns about the potential consequences for community unity and social cohesion.
The situation has attracted further attention following a recent declaration concerning the rights of contestants in the election, which was subsequently postponed.
Some individuals have reportedly taken to social media platforms, particularly WhatsApp, to use insulting and inappropriate language against the Paramount Chief of Tankoro Chiefdom and Member of Parliament, Hon. Paul Gaba Saquee, over allegations that he supports one of the aspiring candidates.
The reported online exchanges have raised concerns about respect for traditional authorities and the need for responsible public discourse during chieftaincy contests.
While disagreements over leadership and succession may arise within communities, observers believe that such disputes should be handled through established customary and lawful procedures rather than personal attacks, political manoeuvring or actions capable of deepening divisions.
The developments in Nimikoro and Tankoro chiefdoms have renewed calls for dialogue, impartial mediation and strict adherence to the laws and procedures governing chieftaincy affairs in Sierra Leone.
There are growing concerns that unresolved disputes among traditional authorities could weaken public confidence in the institution and undermine its role in promoting peace, community development and cooperation between local communities and the central government.
Stakeholders are therefore being urged to prioritize dialogue, respect due process and avoid actions that could further polarize their communities.
The key question remains: what lasting solution can be found to resolve the disputes in Nimikoro and the tensions surrounding the Kokoayima town chieftaincy election, while preserving the dignity, unity and integrity of the chieftaincy institution in Kono District?