Sylvia Blyden Defends Court’s Refusal of Bail for Zainab Sheriff

Sylvia Blyden Defends Court’s Refusal of Bail for Zainab Sheriff

Political commentator Sylvia Olayinka Blyden has publicly defended the court's decision to deny bail to Zainab Sheriff, asserting that the ruling was based on established legal principles rather than political motivations.

Blyden’s remarks came in response to fellow commentator Dauda, known as "Kolonko Daddy," who had publicly questioned why bail was denied and suggested that the public should initiate a fundraising campaign to support Sheriff’s legal defense.

Addressing these concerns, Blyden rejected suggestions that the court's decision was politically influenced, insisting that it was grounded strictly in Sierra Leonean bail law. She argued that Sheriff's conduct specifically disqualified her for bail, citing her decision to go into hiding after a wanted notice had been issued.

"Such a person, on being captured, can never be given bail as the risk is very high that she will run away again if given bail before her trial concludes," Blyden stated.

Blyden further argued that Sheriff’s position was weakened by statements made after the wanted notice was issued—conduct which Blyden claimed formed part of the prosecution’s case and made it difficult for the court to grant bail.

While noting that Sheriff has since been convicted and is currently pursuing an appeal—a process that legally entitles her to apply for bail pending the determination of the case—Blyden expressed the opinion that securing bail at this stage would be unlikely given the accused's previous conduct.

As of the time of publication, neither the Judiciary nor Sheriff’s legal representatives have issued a response to Blyden’s comments.