By Amie Sesay
Sierra Leone’s government has withdrawn official recognition of Paramount Chief Alimamy Sorie II (Kathenkeh) of Kunike Barina Chiefdom in Tonkolili District with immediate effect, the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs said.
The decision was announced in a public notice signed by Local Government Minister Ambassador Tamba J.S. Lamina, citing longstanding legal and administrative issues linked to the 2010 Paramount Chieftaincy election that brought Sorie II to power.
The ministry did not elaborate in detail on the specific grounds for the action but said the move follows a review of disputes surrounding the legitimacy of the election process.
Paramount chiefs play a key role in Sierra Leone’s system of local governance, particularly in rural areas, where they oversee customary law and community administration.
It was not immediately clear what interim arrangements would be put in place in Kunike Barina Chiefdom following the withdrawal of recognition.
Authorities have not indicated whether the decision could be subject to legal challenge.
