President Julius Maada Bio on the 7th Feburary,2024 received a report containing recommendations from Justice Momoh-Jah Stevens’ Commission of Inquiry into the alleged gross misconduct of Paramount Chief Alimamy Bockarie Yalan Koroma III of Dansogoia Chiefdom, Tonkolili district.
Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Ambassador Tamba Lamina, who presented the report, highlighted that the investigation stemmed from a reported incident of incitement and breach of ethics on 21 March 2023.
It was alleged that the Paramount Chief used television and radio platforms to make pronouncements that breached the code of ethics and service standards of the chieftaincy. Following public concerns, the Ministry was tasked with investigating the matter.
The Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining social harmony at the local level and nonpartisanship in the duties of traditional authorities, as outlined in the code of ethics and service standards of the Chieftaincy in Sierra Leone.
Meetings were held with the traditional leader on 27 March 2023, during which Paramount Chief Alimamy Koroma III expressed regret, sought forgiveness, and committed to upholding the code of ethics and service standards.
Justice Momoh-Jah Stevens, the Sole Commissioner, stated that the investigation commenced on 8 November 2023, where reasons for its establishment were presented in the presence of the Paramount Chief.
The case was further discussed on 13 November, with the State Counsel asserting that the Chief had compromised his responsibilities by seeking to become a Member of Parliament for Tonkolili District and blaming the government for not being appointed.
The Commissioner highlighted that the Chief did not object to the allegations and admitted to seeking the parliamentary position due to dissatisfaction. The recommendations of the Commission were presented to President Bio, subject to his approval as per the constitution.
President Julius Maada Bio expressed gratitude to the Commissioner, Minister, State Counsel, and their teams for their diligence in presenting the investigation’s findings and recommendations.
He stressed the importance of adhering to procedural requirements in a rule-based society, emphasizing that thorough consideration of the report and recommendations would precede any necessary actions by the government.
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State House Media and Communications Unit