By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, Sierra Leone – A representative of the Management of Miss Freetown 2023, Sarafina K. Kargbo, has publicly disassociated the team from an unexpected and controversial nomination for “Best Pageant Queen” by the Sierra Leone Entertainment Awards (SLEA). In a statement released recently, Miss Kargbo’s management clarified that the nomination was made without her knowledge or consent and is tied to an organization facing serious allegations of fraud, including impersonation.
The management emphasized that the Sierra Leone Entertainment Awards is not a credible platform and urged the public to recognize the National Entertainment Awards SL Limited (NEA) as the only legitimate entertainment awards body in Sierra Leone. The NEA, which operates under the LAKE Group of Companies, is well-known for honoring talent and excellence in the entertainment sector.
In their statement, Miss Kargbo’s management demanded the immediate removal of her name from any communications related to the SLEA and warned that legal action would be taken if the nomination is not withdrawn. They stressed that the unauthorized nomination could harm Miss Kargbo’s reputation by associating her with an organization allegedly involved in fraudulent activities.
“Miss Sarafina K. Kargbo does not recognize or endorse the Sierra Leone Entertainment Awards and formally declines the nomination,” the statement read. The management reiterated their commitment to protecting her reputation from becoming entangled in any legal disputes linked to the SLEA’s alleged misconduct.
On their official Facebook page, the management made their stance clear: “We wish to unequivocally disassociate our client from the recent and unsolicited nomination. This nomination was made without Miss Kargbo’s knowledge or consent and is associated with an organization currently facing serious allegations of legal fraud.” They further reaffirmed their support for the NEA as the only credible entertainment awards body in the country.
The statement was signed by Esther Y. Kamara, Executive Director of Miss Freetown SL Limited, and also forwarded to Enoh and Partners, legal representatives of MFBP SL Limited, reinforcing the seriousness of the situation.
This incident has raised concerns about the integrity of some award platforms in Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry, with Miss Kargbo’s management underscoring the need for transparency and reputation management in a sector increasingly plagued by allegations of misconduct.