By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone — In an ongoing legal dispute over the Paramount Chieftaincy election in Bumpe Gao Chiefdom, Bo District, Petitioner Sakpa Jibao Gbekpa has sought an extension on an interim injunction to prevent Alfred Sovula from acting as chief until the court reaches a decision. The request was made Monday, November 4, 2024, before Justice Alfred Tommy Ganda at the High Court in Freetown.
Counsel for the petitioner, Lawyer BJ Reffle, argued that despite an existing injunction, Sovula had attended public functions as the elected chief. Reffle announced plans to submit video evidence showing Sovula in public celebrations, contending that Sovula’s actions violate the injunction. Reffle pressed for an extended injunction to maintain the “status quo,” ensuring Sovula refrains from any duties associated with the chieftaincy until the petition is resolved.
Responding, Lawyer Sakoh, representing Sovula, argued that the injunction had already expired, claiming no restrictions were currently in effect and suggesting that the petitioner’s claims were unsubstantiated. He referenced Section 18 of the Chieftaincy Act, which gives the court authority to void a chieftaincy if the election process is contested. Sakoh emphasized that the court should proceed with hearing the election petition rather than imposing another injunction.
Justice Ganda adjourned the hearing to Tuesday, November 5, 2024, allowing Sovula’s counsel time to formally respond to the request for extending the injunction, as the court weighs its decision in this pivotal chieftaincy dispute.
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