THE HANDSHAKE WITH HISTORY: GOVERNMENT DROPS TREASON CHARGES AGAINST FORMER PRESIDENT KOROMA

The Government of Sierra Leone has formally closed one of the most watched legal chapters in recent history.

In a notice submitted to the High Court, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice discontinued all criminal proceedings against former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, invoking Section 45 of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024. The move exercises the constitutional powers vested in the office to withdraw charges, bringing an end to months of legal uncertainty.

Former President Koroma had been facing allegations of treason and misprision of treason following investigations into the events surrounding the August 2023 unrest. He was granted bail on medical grounds and has since been receiving treatment abroad.

The withdrawal marks a sharp turn from confrontation to closure. For supporters, it signals reconciliation. For critics, it raises questions about accountability and the political cost of the case.

Either way, the decision resets the national conversation. With the treason file now shelved, attention shifts to what comes next for governance, justice, and healing in Sierra Leone.