Government Says EU Support Delay Not Linked to Bolle Jos Judicial Dispute
Aaron Parker The Government of Sierra Leone has rejected reports suggesting that the European Union’s decision to postpone its 2026 budget-support disbursement was linked to ongoing judicial discussions with the Netherlands over the case involving alleged drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers, popularly known as “Bolle Jos.”
In a clarification, the Government said the European Commission formally communicated its decision in July 2026, citing the timing of Sierra Leone’s request to amend the Financing Agreement and difficulties in completing the required processes within the 2026 reporting cycle.
According to the Government, the European Commission proposed rescheduling the 2026 and 2027 disbursements to 2027 and 2028, respectively. It added that the targets for the 2027 disbursement have already been agreed.
The Government acknowledged that the postponement of the 2026 disbursement represents a setback but stressed that it does not constitute a suspension of Sierra Leone’s broader partnership with the European Union.
It further stated that EU representatives subsequently clarified that the July decision was not taken because of discussions concerning any particular individual.
The Government said reports portraying the EU’s decision as a new punitive measure connected to the Bolle Jos case do not reflect the reasons formally communicated to Sierra Leone.
The clarification comes amid reports linking European financial support to Sierra Leone with the country’s handling of judicial cooperation involving the Netherlands.
The Government reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to international cooperation in combating transnational organised crime and to judicial cooperation with international partners in accordance with national laws and established legal procedures.
It also cautioned against attempts to use development cooperation as leverage, maintaining that matters relating to judicial cooperation should be addressed through lawful processes, mutual respect and sustained engagement between competent authorities.
The Government said it remains confident in the strength of Sierra Leone’s partnership with the European Union and looks forward to continued engagement ahead of the 2027 disbursement and the broader cooperation programme.