Koroma, APC Welcome Discontinuation of Criminal Case, Call for National Unity

Former President Ernest Bai Koroma and the All Peoples Congress (APC) have welcomed the discontinuation of criminal proceedings against him, following the decision by the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice to withdraw the case.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, Koroma said he had received the announcement that the proceedings instituted against him had been discontinued in accordance with the laws of Sierra Leone.

The former president expressed gratitude to God for what he described as guidance and support throughout what he called a difficult period, while reaffirming his commitment to peace, justice and national reconciliation.

Koroma also acknowledged the role of President Julius Maada Bio, the Government of Sierra Leone, and other stakeholders whose efforts contributed to resolving the matter.

“I acknowledge, with appreciation, the role played by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone and all those whose efforts, guided by our Constitution and the rule of law, have contributed to bringing this matter to its conclusion,” Koroma stated.

He further thanked the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, and former heads of state for their commitment to peace, dialogue and regional stability.

The former president extended special appreciation to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian government for what he described as their support, hospitality and friendship throughout the process.

Koroma said Sierra Leone had previously overcome difficult moments by prioritising national interest, dialogue and unity, adding that he remained committed to initiatives that promote peace, strengthen democracy and improve the welfare of citizens.

Meanwhile, the APC has described the discontinuation of the proceedings as a significant step towards national healing, reconciliation and unity.

In a statement, the party confirmed that the criminal proceedings involving its former Chairman and Leader were formally discontinued by the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice under Section 45 of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024.

“The criminal proceedings against our former Chairman and Leader, His Excellency Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, have been formally discontinued,” the APC stated.

The party explained that the decision means the matter is no longer before the courts, Koroma’s bail conditions have ceased, and he is now free to return to Sierra Leone at a time of his choosing.

The APC urged its members and supporters to respond to the development peacefully and responsibly, emphasising the importance of respecting the rule of law, national cohesion and unity.

“Let this be a time to reaffirm our commitment to peace, unity, national cohesion, and the rule of law, rather than a moment for division or provocation,” the party stated.

The discontinuation marks a major development in the legal case involving the former president, removing restrictions associated with the proceedings and paving the way for his possible return to Sierra Leone.

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