By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, Sierra Leone — Alhaji Mohamed Kamara, a 52-year-old ex-military officer, has been remanded in custody following allegations of making inciting statements intended to undermine Sierra Leone’s peace and security. Kamara appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Court No. 2 on Wednesday, November 14, 2024, to face charges of incitement.
According to the indictment, Kamara allegedly made the statements on October 19, 2024, in Freetown, claiming that the government, led by President Maada Bio, had killed many individuals detained at the Correctional Center following the August 10, 2023, protests. Kamara also allegedly stated that President Bio did not legitimately win the June 24, 2023, presidential election and suggested that the government could only be removed by force.
Upon hearing the charges, Kamara reportedly burst into laughter and pleaded not guilty. The police prosecutor, Detective Superintendent of Police Sorie Conteh, requested an adjournment, citing the absence of key witnesses. Kamara, who was unrepresented in court, did not have a bail application submitted on his behalf.
Magistrate Bangura ordered Kamara to be remanded in custody and adjourned the matter to November 19, 2024, for further proceedings. The case has raised concerns about the impact of such statements on national stability and the role of the judiciary in addressing potential threats to peace.