3 Comments 
Zainab Sheriff, leader of the Wi Duti Lapa movement, was remanded back to prison following her third appearance before Principal Magistrate Brima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown on Wednesday, 4th January.
Sheriff has appeared in court three times in connection with charges of incitement and threatening language under Section 30(1) of the Public Order Act 1965, and has been denied bail on all three occasions.
Lead prosecution counsel, Yusuf I. Sesay, presented a video in court, along with other pieces of evidence, which were formally marked as exhibits following cross-examination.
Lead defense counsel, RSV Wright, challenged the admissibility of the video evidence, arguing that there was no competent witness to confirm its authorship. However, the magistrate ruled in favour of the prosecution, allowing the video and other exhibits to stand in the case.
The prosecution alleges that Sheriff, on Saturday, 31st January 2026, at Brima Attouga Mini Stadium within the Freetown Judicial District, made statements capable of inciting violence. Authorities claim her remarks targeted individuals accused of rigging elections, suggesting that those allegedly responsible for cheating “eight million people” should not go free. Police maintain that such statements could encourage violence and compromise public order.
Family members, supporters, and members of the public gathered outside the courthouse in an emotional show of solidarity, expressing concern over Sheriff’s continued detention while awaiting trial. The atmosphere was tense as the matter was adjourned to March 11, 2026 with many hoping for a resolution in future hearings.
Principal Magistrate Brima Jah remanded Sheriff in custody until the next scheduled appearance, marking her third court appearance without bail. The case continues to draw significant public attention due to its political sensitivity and Sheriff’s role as a prominent activist, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding allegations of election-related incitement in Sierra Leone.
Don’t politicized the law
We witness a world being run by bullies. While Paopa is bullying Yeabu (Zainab), so is Guinea bullying SL. Unless the Court (read Paopa) has a different interpretation of “incitement” I see no reason why this young woman should continue to be detained. Concentrated power results in tyranny, and that’s where Salone is sliding. Free Zainab!
Then, all of you don’t really abide with the law of Sierra Leone. Abolish any law then and live like jungle people. Leaders and Supporters of the party doesn’t believe in rules as long they are not in power and the same rules, even hard ones they take to rule people in Sierra Leone. Siaka Steven’s styles. Why Sierra Leoneans can’t just live in harmony. It very sad and shameful. I rest my case.