Biriwa Limba Chiefdom, Sierra Leone – Tensions are rising in Biriwa Limba Chiefdom as the ongoing process to amalgamate sections within the chiefdom has reignited historical debates over Mandingo participation in local chieftaincy politics.
Local opinion leaders say the restructuring of the chiefdom is aimed at ending the existence of scattered section chiefdoms, which they argue is a step toward administrative efficiency. However, critics describe the move as politically motivated and potentially exclusionary, particularly toward the Mandingo community.
Historical Dispute Over Chieftaincy
According to historical records and interpretations of the Chieftaincy Act of Sierra Leone, only individuals with direct lineage to a past Paramount Chief are entitled to contest for the Paramount Chieftaincy. Community leaders note that no member of the Sheriff family, who are Mandingo by origin, has ever held the Paramount Chieftaincy in Biriwa Limba Chiefdom.
They argue that past opportunities for Mandingo candidates to contest were offered as a symbolic gesture of inclusivity rather than a hereditary right.
“The opportunity our forefathers gave was a privilege, not a right,” said one prominent Limba elder. “If that privilege is now being seen as a threat, then we have the responsibility to reassess it.”
The elder recalled that in 2005–2006, Mandingo candidacy for the Paramount Chieftaincy was officially discontinued after community consultations, effectively ending their participation in that aspect of local governance.
Section Demarcation and Future Changes
The current amalgamation process seeks to reorganize villages by geographic proximity rather than ethnic or historical divisions. This would dissolve Mandingo-only sections and integrate their villages into nearby Limba sections.
“Every village will be placed in its nearest section, whether Mandingo or Limba,” said a local chief involved in the process. “The era of exclusive Mandingo Section Chieftaincy is nearing its end.”
While proponents argue the move will strengthen chiefdom unity and improve administration, some residents fear it may erode Mandingo representation and fuel ethnic division if not handled carefully.
The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs is yet to issue an official statement on the ongoing amalgamation, but the situation continues to draw attention as Biriwa Limba Chiefdom navigates this sensitive political and cultural transition.
By Joe Turay
