By Feima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a dramatic start to a closely watched court martial, six military personnel pleaded not guilty to charges of mutiny, failure to suppress mutiny, and desertion on October 17, 2024. The accused, including Major Patrick Abu Ordende Sesay, Major Juana Kabba, and Lieutenant Zainab Amara Suwu, appeared before Judge Advocate Mark Ngegba and a panel of seven military officers.
The charges stem from allegations that between June 24 and July 29, 2023, the soldiers participated in a plot to overthrow the government of Sierra Leone through violent means. It is alleged that some of the accused incited others to join the mutiny, while others failed to report the conspiracy. The defendants face serious charges under Section 37(1)b of the Armed Forces of Sierra Leone Act, which could carry severe penalties.
As the trial opened, defense lawyers raised jurisdictional challenges, claiming some of the accused were dismissed from the military before the alleged offenses occurred and should not be tried under military law. Lawyer Ibrahim Bangura, representing two of the defendants, argued that his clients were civilians and therefore not subject to a court martial.
However, state prosecutor Joseph A. K. Sesay countered that even dismissed soldiers could be tried for offenses committed during their service. He cited sections of the Armed Forces Act that allow the prosecution of former personnel under military law. After considering both arguments, Judge Ngegba ruled in favor of the prosecution, allowing the trial to proceed.
The court adjourned to October 21, 2024, for further hearings, with defense lawyers requesting improved conditions for their clients in detention. Judge Ngegba ordered that the accused be given access to proper military attire and ensured their detention followed military protocols.
This trial is expected to continue drawing public attention, as it involves high-ranking military officials accused of a serious threat to national security.