Sierra Leone Court Sentences Soldiers to Lengthy Jail Terms for Failed Coup

A military court in Sierra Leone has delivered severe sentences to 24 soldiers involved in a failed coup attempt against President Julius Maada Bio’s government. The court’s decision, announced late Friday, sees the convicted soldiers facing prison terms ranging from 50 to 120 years, reflecting the gravity of their involvement in the November 2023 insurrection.

The coup attempt, which unfolded on November 26, 2023, was marked by a series of violent actions including attacks on military barracks, two prisons, and other strategic locations. This brazen assault led to the escape of approximately 2,200 inmates and resulted in over 20 fatalities. The violence and chaos that ensued shocked the nation and raised questions about the stability of Sierra Leone’s political environment.

The court-martial proceedings saw a total of 27 men being tried for their roles in the insurrection. The military jury, comprising seven members, delivered a unanimous verdict after extensive deliberations, finding most of the accused guilty on multiple charges. The charges against them included mutiny, murder, aiding the enemy, and theft of public or service property. The sentences handed down reflect the seriousness of these offenses, with one lieutenant colonel receiving the harshest penalty of 120 years.

Judge Advocate Mark Ngegba, who presided over the court-martial and is a former military officer himself, emphasized the intent behind the sentences. He stated, “When we reach this conclusion for sentences it is to send a message of zero tolerance for such an act in the military.” This stern pronouncement underscores the court’s aim to deter any future attempts to undermine the country’s democratic processes and military discipline.

The failed coup attempt occurred in the aftermath of a contentious election. President Bio’s narrow victory in the presidential race was met with fierce opposition from the APC party and skepticism from both local and international observers regarding the election’s transparency. This political turbulence likely contributed to the unrest that culminated in the coup attempt.

In addition to the 24 soldiers sentenced, 11 civilians, police officers, and prison staff were convicted earlier in July for their involvement in the insurrection. The court’s decision reflects a broader crackdown on those who sought to destabilize the government and disrupt national order.

The sentencing hearing was a somber affair, with family members of the convicted soldiers visibly distressed as the lengthy terms were read out. Their emotional reactions highlighted the profound personal impact of the court’s decision on those connected to the accused.

Among the 27 individuals initially court-martialled, one was acquitted, another had already received a sentence after pleading guilty, and the trial of the third individual is pending. The court’s decision is expected to be a significant moment in Sierra Leone’s recent history, reinforcing the government’s stance on maintaining order and deterring any future acts of rebellion.

The aftermath of the coup attempt and the subsequent sentencing reflect ongoing challenges for President Bio’s administration as it navigates a politically charged environment. The military’s firm response to the attempted coup signals a resolute stance against any threats to the country’s democratic stability and governance.