Attorney General Discontinues Criminal Charges Against Former President Ernest Bai Koroma

Attorney General Discontinues Criminal Charges Against Former President Ernest Bai Koroma

In a landmark legal development, Sierra Leone's Attorney General and Minister of Justice has officially discontinued the criminal proceedings against former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, bringing an end to one of the country's most closely watched cases.

According to a public notice issued on 14 July 2026, Attorney General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay filed a notice to discontinue the criminal proceedings against former President Koroma in accordance with Section 45 of the Criminal Procedure Act, 2024.

The Attorney General stated that the decision was made in the exercise of the powers vested in the office under the laws of Sierra Leone.

Former President Koroma had been facing charges relating to treason and misprision of treason following the events surrounding the failed coup attempt in November 2023. He had previously been granted bail on medical grounds and has been receiving treatment abroad.

With the filing of the notice, the criminal proceedings have been formally terminated, and Koroma's bail has ended with immediate effect, as the matter is no longer before the courts.

The notice further confirms that the former President is now free to return to Sierra Leone upon completing his medical treatment or at any time of his choosing.

The announcement marks a significant development in Sierra Leone's legal and political landscape and is expected to generate widespread public and political discussion.

Source: Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice