Activist Babadi Says Koroma Should Return and Face Charges Before Courts

Civil society activist Thomas Pa Alie Babadi has called on former President Ernest Bai Koroma to return to Sierra Leone and continue with the legal proceedings against him, rather than benefit from any political arrangement aimed at facilitating his return.

Speaking during an interview on AYV, Babadi said if Koroma’s health condition had improved, there was no reason why the former president should not return to the country and continue addressing the charges before the courts.

“If Ernest Bai Koroma is feeling well now, let him come and continue facing his treason and other criminal charges,” Babadi said.

The activist argued that Koroma should be treated like any other person facing criminal proceedings, adding that the rule of law should apply equally to everyone.

“If others can go through it, then why not Ernest Bai Koroma?” he questioned.

Babadi also dismissed ongoing public discussions about efforts to facilitate the former president’s return, describing them as a distraction from more pressing issues affecting Sierra Leoneans, including economic challenges and rising living costs.

He claimed that key political actors involved in the matter were already holding discussions privately.

“These people, the government and Ernest, know where they meet and discuss and interact,” he said.

The activist further questioned reports that Parliament could consider a motion relating to Koroma’s return, asking why the matter should be prioritised at a time when many citizens are struggling with economic difficulties.

“What is so urgent about that document for Parliament to discuss for bringing Ernest Bai Koroma to come and add to the bread and butter issue?” he asked.

Babadi also questioned the use of peace and national cohesion as reasons for discussions surrounding the former president’s return, maintaining that Koroma should continue to address the allegations before the courts.

Koroma, who served as President of Sierra Leone

from 2007 to 2018, was charged alongside several others in connection with the November 2023 failed coup attempt. He has denied any wrongdoing.

Public discussions have increased in recent days over possible arrangements to facilitate his return to Sierra Leone, although no formal parliamentary motion had been publicly presented at the time of publication.