Paramount Chiefs Condemn Desecration of Late PC Gondor II’s Remains
The National Council of Paramount Chiefs–Sierra Leone (NCPC-SL) has strongly condemned the unlawful exhumation and desecration of the remains of the late Paramount Chief Cyril Foray Gondor II, alongside acts of violence, vandalism and looting in Pendembu Town, Upper Bambara Chiefdom, Kailahun District.
The incident reportedly occurred on the night of Friday, 16 October, and the early hours of Saturday, 17 October 2026, shortly after the late Paramount Chief was buried following traditional rites. According to the Council, the tomb was destroyed, his remains were unlawfully exhumed and paraded through the town, and his coffin was set ablaze. Five houses belonging to the late chief, his wife and close family members were also reportedly vandalised.
The late Paramount Chief, who represented Kailahun District in Parliament as a Paramount Chief Member, died on 5 September 2026. His remains were transported to Pendembu on 16 October for his final traditional rites and were initially laid to rest in accordance with customary practices.
In a statement signed by its National Chairperson,
PC Dr. Masakma Madibie II, and National Secretary General, PC Larry SB Fangawa IV, the NCPC-SL described the incident as a grave violation of Sierra Leone’s customs, traditions and laws. The Council extended condolences to the bereaved family and expressed solidarity with all those affected.
The Council stressed that the institution of Paramount Chieftaincy is constitutionally recognised and deeply rooted in the country’s traditional governance system. It maintained that cultural practices cannot justify violence, destruction of property or the desecration of human remains, adding that the incident appeared to be a premeditated act of violence and criminality that should not be associated with traditional secret societies.
The NCPC-SL also condemned the recording and circulation of graphic images and videos of the incident on social media, urging the public to stop sharing such content out of respect for the deceased and his family.
The Council called on the Sierra Leone Police to strengthen investigations and make impartial arrests, while urging the Judiciary to expedite proceedings against anyone found culpable. It also recommended that the Government establish an independent investigative committee, including representatives of the Council, to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and submit its findings.
Additionally, the NCPC-SL called on the Government to provide adequate security and support to the bereaved family to enable the completion of the late chief’s final traditional rites without further obstruction. It reaffirmed its readiness to cooperate with the authorities to ensure that those responsible for committing or instigating the violence are held accountable.
Beyond seeking justice, the Council appealed to the Government, individuals, businesses, organisations and well-wishers to provide financial and material assistance to the bereaved family and support the restoration of properties damaged during the incident. It also expressed support for initiatives aimed at rebuilding affected properties in Pendembu.
The Council urged residents of Pendembu, Upper Bambara Chiefdom and Kailahun District to remain calm and law-abiding, cooperate with the police by providing credible information and allow the family and chiefdom authorities to organise a dignified re-interment for the late Paramount Chief.
The NCPC-SL concluded by reaffirming its commitment to peace, national cohesion, the rule of law, customary governance and the preservation of Sierra Leone’s traditions, while calling on citizens to respect the institution of Paramount Chieftaincy, uphold human dignity and support the bereaved family.
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