Seeking Clemency for EBK Strengthens the Wrong Narrative
By Albert Thaimu Turay, Makeni
I read with great interest an Open Letter by fellow APC member Adams Bangura in the United Kingdom, in which he appealed to the Government of Sierra Leone to grant clemency to former President and APC Leader, Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma. While I understand how emotional so many APC comrades have become over the passing of our party chairman, and while such a call may have come from a genuine place, I must respectfully disagree with Adam’s call.
Clemency is ordinarily granted to an individual who has been convicted of a crime following due legal process. To the best of my knowledge, Dr. Koroma has neither been tried nor found guilty of any offence. His current stay in Nigeria was widely reported to be on medical grounds, not as the result of a criminal conviction. In that context, calls for clemency appear misplaced.
More importantly, requesting forgiveness implies guilt. Given the seriousness and complications of the circumstances surrounding EBK’s stay in Nigeria, it will be helpful to defer to his lawyers, his office or his family before volunteering to speak on such a sensitive matter. So far, I’ve heard nothing about this from EBK’s lawyers or a family member so I think it’s a bit over the board for anyone to dabble into that.
Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma governed Sierra Leone for two terms and left an indelible mark on the country’s development landscape. His administration oversaw one of the most ambitious infrastructure expansion programmes in our history, transforming roads, energy access, and public services across the nation. He provided opportunities to many Sierra Leoneans, regardless of political affiliation, and helped shape a generation of public servants and leaders. Yes he did that.
For that reason, I find it difficult to accept the notion that he would knowingly support or participate in any attempt to destabilise the state. Let me be clear: I unequivocally condemn any effort to acquire political power through unconstitutional means. Democracy must always be protected. However, condemning unconstitutional actions should not translate into unjustly tarnishing the reputation of individuals without evidence or due process.
Dr. Koroma is not a perfect man. No leader is. But neither is he the villain that some would like to portray. History should judge him fairly on the basis of facts, not political expediency.
The recent passing of APC CEO, Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray adds another layer of sadness to this moment. It is unfortunate that Dr. Koroma could not attend the funeral of a trusted friend and political ally. That absence will not be of his choosing nor should it be used by anyone to sensationalise an immensely serious legal matter. Even more intriguing is the attempt by senior members of the ruling party as seen with the deputy chairman to run with that misplaced call for clemency. Such statements appear to derail from the important due process of dropping the charges.
As for the APC, the recent deaths of several comrades should serve as a rallying call for greater unity, solidarity, and purpose. At moments like these, the party must look inward, strengthen its bonds, and remain focused on the future. The road to 2028 will require discipline, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment from every member.
The APC has weathered difficult storms before and emerged stronger. The challenges faced by some of its leaders today should not weaken the resolve of the party’s supporters. Rather, they should reinforce the belief that perseverance, unity, and faith in democratic processes remain the surest path to victory.
Now more than ever, the APC must stand together.
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