By Mohamed KaiKai
FREETOWN, July 16, 2026 — Sierra Leone’s Parliament on Thursday unanimously approved a motion endorsing the Attorney General’s decision to discontinue criminal proceedings against former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, bringing an important chapter in one of the country’s most closely watched legal and political cases to a close.
The motion was moved by the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Matthew Sahr Nyuma, and seconded by the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo. It received unanimous support from Members of Parliament across party lines, reflecting a rare moment of bipartisan consensus.
During the debate, lawmakers from both the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) welcomed the Attorney General’s action, arguing that it was in line with constitutional provisions governing the discontinuance of criminal proceedings.
Several MPs also described the decision as a step toward promoting national reconciliation, political stability and social cohesion.
The parliamentary endorsement follows the announcement by Attorney General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay that the State would discontinue all charges against the former president. The move effectively ends the prosecution that had kept the country’s political atmosphere tense since late 2023.
Dr. Koroma was charged in connection with the failed military and prison attacks of November 26, 2023, which the government described as an attempted coup.
The attacks targeted key security installations in Freetown, including the Wilberforce Military Barracks, the central prison and police facilities, resulting in the deaths of security personnel and civilians and the escape of hundreds of inmates from prison.
Following months of investigations, prosecutors accused the former president of offences linked to the alleged coup plot, including treason-related charges.
Dr. Koroma consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that he had no involvement in the events and describing the charges as politically motivated.
The case attracted widespread national and international attention because of its potential implications for Sierra Leone’s democracy, the rule of law and political stability. Regional leaders and international partners repeatedly encouraged dialogue and adherence to due process while urging all political actors to preserve peace.
As part of broader mediation efforts led by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Dr. Koroma travelled to Nigeria in January 2024 under an arrangement agreed between the Government of Sierra Leone and ECOWAS. He has remained outside Sierra Leone for much of the period while the legal process continued.
The Attorney General’s decision to discontinue the charges has generated mixed reactions. Supporters say it demonstrates political maturity and provides an opportunity for national healing after years of political tensions.
They argue that closing the case could help rebuild trust among political actors and create a more conducive environment for dialogue.
Others, however, believe that the decision raises important questions about accountability for the events of November 26 and may leave some victims and their families seeking greater clarity regarding the pursuit of justice.
Parliament’s unanimous endorsement nevertheless signals broad political support for the Attorney General’s action and may mark the beginning of renewed efforts to strengthen national unity ahead of future political engagements.
Political analysts say the development could ease tensions between the country’s two main political parties and encourage greater cooperation on issues of governance, democratic reforms and national development.
Whether the decision ultimately succeeds in fostering lasting reconciliation will depend on continued commitment by political leaders to dialogue, respect for democratic institutions and efforts to address the underlying divisions that have shaped Sierra Leone’s recent political history.
