By Kadiatu Sankoh
The Limba Community has strongly rejected the proposed division of Biriwa Chiefdom in Bombali District, describing the move as unacceptable and calling for meaningful consultation with the people before any decision is taken.
The opposition was expressed during a press conference held on Friday, 23 October 2026, at Cage, Brookfields, Freetown. The event brought together the Member of Parliament representing Biriwa Chiefdom, Honourable Paul Samba Conteh, the Paramount Chief, section chiefs, members of the Limba Community and the media.
Speaking at the event, Honourable Conteh accused the authorities of failing to adequately consult the people of Biriwa before proposing the division. He argued that any decision affecting the administrative structure of the chiefdom should involve the communities concerned.
The MP also warned that dividing the chiefdom could create unnecessary tension among ethnic groups that have lived together peacefully for generations. He noted that Limba, Mandingo, Fula and other communities have long coexisted in Biriwa, contributing to its social and cultural diversity.
Honourable Conteh further criticised the Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Tamba Lamina, over what he described as inadequate consultation, insisting that the people should be given the opportunity to express their views on the proposed changes.
He warned that the Limba Community would challenge the proposal through legal means if necessary, stressing that the people would not accept what they considered an imposed decision.
The MP called on the government to reconsider the proposal and engage in meaningful dialogue with the people of Biriwa, emphasising that broad consultation is essential to protecting peace, unity and the longstanding coexistence among communities in the chiefdom.