High Court Rules Against Kamarainba in Defamation Case, Orders Damages and Public Apology

In a decision of protections against online defamation, Appeal Court Justice A.T. Ganda has found politician Mohamed Kamarainba Mansaray liable for libelous statements made against prominent businessman Kobi Walker.

The court has ordered Kamarainba to pay NLe 250,000 in damages, cover NLe 50,000 in legal costs, and undertake significant corrective actions.

The judgment stems from an audio recording created and circulated by Kamarainba via WhatsApp and other social media platforms on February 2, 2025, which the court unequivocally declared to be libelous toward Walker.

Justice Ganda explicitly stated that the audio recording authored and published by the Defendant concerning the Plaintiff amounts to libel.

Beyond financial penalties, the court has mandated Kamarainba to publish a full retraction and a written apology in three widely circulated national newspapers across Sierra Leone.

Furthermore, he is required to delete all related audio recordings, written statements, and social media posts concerning Walker from platforms including Facebook and WhatsApp.

To prevent any future recurrence of such defamatory acts, the court has issued a permanent injunction, strictly prohibiting Kamarainba and his representatives from producing or disseminating any video, audio, or written material that defames or damages Walker.

Responding to the verdict, Kobi Walker expressed profound satisfaction, hailing the judgment as a triumph for justice and a stern warning to potential defamers.

This ruling is not only a personal victory but also a safeguard for the future of our children.

It sends a clear message that defamation will no longer be tolerated. It affirms that young people can pursue their dreams and succeed without fear of unjust character attacks, Walker remarked.