By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone — The court-martial trial of high-ranking military officers accused of orchestrating the November 26, 2023, failed coup against the government of Sierra Leone continued on Thursday, November 21, 2024. Prosecution Witness No. 11, Corporal David Saidu, tendered statements from the first accused, Major Patrick Ordende Sesay, and other senior officers, shedding light on their alleged roles and subsequent escapes following the coup attempt.
Dramatic Escapes and Allegations
Major Patrick Ordende Sesay, in his statement read in court, claimed that during the coup attempt, masked men forcibly removed him from his cell at the Reintegration Facility and assaulted him before placing him in a police vehicle. He recounted fleeing amidst gunfire at Orugu and later disguising himself as a woman to escape to Guinea. “A woman gave me clothing and money before I boarded a boat to Conakry,” he testified. He denied allegations of involvement in the coup and insisted he fled for his safety.
Similarly, the second accused, Major Juana Kabba, narrated being removed from his cell by armed men dressed in military combat. He stated that he used the chaos during a police chase to escape to Kabala, eventually making his way to Guinea in February 2024. He also revealed staying with other accused officers until their arrest by Guinean police in June 2024.
Insights from the Testimonies
The third accused, Major Foday Sumana Kamara, denied involvement in planning the coup but admitted joining a controversial WhatsApp group called “Kalamera” in 2018. He said he exited the group in April 2023, citing its lack of control. Kamara claimed he fled Sierra Leone out of fear after receiving warnings about being linked to the group.
Corporal David Saidu, an investigator with the Special Investigation Branch, explained that statements were obtained during the investigation into the alleged conspiracy to commit mutiny, desertion, and failure to suppress mutiny. All statements were produced and tendered as evidence in court.
Legal and Strategic Ramifications
State prosecutors are building their case around the accused officers’ alleged conspiracy to overthrow President Julius Maada Bio’s government. The defense continues to argue that some accused were forced into hiding and had no involvement in the coup plot.
Next Steps in the Trial
The trial continues as evidence mounts against the accused. With testimonies detailing dramatic escapes and international arrests, the case underscores the challenges of addressing military insubordination in a politically fragile environment.
The matter was adjourned to allow further cross-examination of witnesses and examination of additional evidence.
Bottom of Form