Ministry Withdraws Recognition of Tonkolili Paramount Chief, Orders Fresh Election

Ministry Withdraws Recognition of Tonkolili Paramount Chief, Orders Fresh Election

The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs has formally withdrawn its recognition of Alimamy Sorie II (Kathenkeh) as the Paramount Chief of Kunike Barina Chiefdom in Tonkolili District. 

This decision concludes a protracted legal and administrative process concerning the chiefdom’s 2010 electoral results, which were annulled by a court judgment in April 2012.

Minister Ambassador Tamba J.S. Lamina issued the directive with immediate effect, mandating that the former Paramount Chief relinquish all official duties, symbols of authority, and property belonging to the chiefdom.

To ensure administrative continuity, the Ministry will appoint a Regent Chief to serve in a caretaker capacity. Per the requirements of the Chieftaincy Act of 2009, a fresh election for the Paramount Chieftaincy is to be organized within the next six months. 

The Ministry has clarified that the former Paramount Chief is not barred from participating in this upcoming electoral process.