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Public discussion has intensified over the reported imminent return of former President Ernest Bai Koroma to Sierra Leone, with citizens and political stakeholders expressing mixed views as unofficial reports link the move to ongoing national reconciliation efforts.
The discussions follow reports published by the Global Times newspaper indicating that efforts are underway to facilitate Koroma’s return as part of broader initiatives aimed at promoting peace, dialogue and national cohesion.
According to the publication, a delegation of Sierra Leonean parliamentarians recently met with the former President in Abuja, Nigeria, where he has been residing since January 2024 after travelling abroad for medical treatment. The visit was reportedly connected to ongoing engagements intended to strengthen national reconciliation.
The report also cited diplomatic sources alleging that President Julius Maada Bio and former President Koroma have held discussions in Abuja since Koroma relocated to Nigeria. However, neither the Presidency nor Koroma has officially confirmed that such a meeting took place.
The reported plans for Koroma’s return have attracted differing reactions across the country. While many Sierra Leoneans have welcomed the prospect, describing it as a positive step towards fostering national unity and reconciliation, others have maintained that any return should be guided by due legal process and mutually agreed conditions.
Among the proposals reportedly under discussion are the provision of state security for the former President, restrictions on unauthorised security personnel and weapons at his residence, limitations on political activities, and continued compliance with legal and security requirements.
Reports have also suggested that some stakeholders are advocating for the temporary suspension of the treason charges against Koroma, subject to his adherence to agreed conditions. None of these proposals has been officially confirmed.
Supporters of the former President have also argued that, given his reported health condition, he should be allowed to return home, resume his role as a statesman and contribute to national peace and reconciliation efforts.
The reported developments come amid broader engagements involving political leaders and stakeholders from across the political divide aimed at promoting dialogue, reconciliation and national unity.
As of the time of publication, the Government of Sierra Leone has not issued an official statement confirming any agreement on Koroma’s return, and no date has been announced for his possible return to the country.
