Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No. 2 has directed that Patricia Laverly, former Minister of Finance, appear in court to face charges related to the alleged assault of Tourism Minister Nabella Farida Tunis.

The directive, issued on Thursday, November 28, 2024, followed repeated absences by the accused, reportedly due to health issues.

The prosecution, led by State Lawyer Yusuf Isaac Sesay, argued that the accused’s failure to attend court proceedings hindered justice. Sesay highlighted that the defense team had not adequately communicated reasons for her absence or fulfilled procedural requirements, including filing and serving necessary affidavits.

Patricia Laverly faces two charges under the Offenses Against the Person Act of 1861: inflicting grievous bodily harm and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The charges stem from an alleged incident on November 12, 2024, at State House in Freetown, where she reportedly assaulted Minister Tunis with the intent to cause harm.

During the hearing, the defense team, led by Jenkins-Johnston, maintained that their client was critically ill and receiving intensive care at Choithram Hospital.

Jenkins-Johnston presented medical documents to support claims that Laverly required urgent medical attention and could not appear in court. He argued that forcing her to attend the proceedings would be inhumane and unreasonable, accusing the state of attempting to persecute rather than prosecute.

The prosecution countered that the court had the authority to evaluate the accused’s health condition and ensure the case progressed. Sesay contended that the complainant, despite her busy schedule as a government minister, had consistently appeared in court, demonstrating her commitment to justice.

After considering submissions from both sides, Magistrate Bangura ruled that the accused must be brought to court for an independent assessment of her medical condition.

However, the defense requested that the court visit Choithram Hospital to verify her status. The prosecution opposed this request, stating that court orders should only be varied under exceptional circumstances, which they argued were not present.

In his ruling, Magistrate Bangura ordered Patricia Laverly to appear in court on Monday, December 2, 2024, emphasizing the importance of balancing legal processes with fairness while ensuring the case moves forward.