Allegations of Malpractice and Disputed Chieftaincy Outcome
By Mackie M. Jalloh
The chieftaincy election held on June 5th, 2024, in Munu/Thala Chiefdom, Kambia District, Sierra Leone, has plunged the community into a maelstrom of controversy and legal battles. At the heart of the dispute is the rightful Paramount Chief of the chiefdom, a position traditionally held by the Bainanie Kabath ruling house. However, the election process has been marred by allegations of malpractice, political influence, and procedural irregularities that have cast a shadow over the legitimacy of the outcome.
The election saw two primary contenders: Yusuf Musa Kamara and Baijakie Kamara. Baijakie Kamara, representing the Bainanie Kabath ruling house, was considered the legal chieftaincy contender by tradition and historical lineage. In contrast, Yusuf Musa Kamara, backed purportedly by political connections, financial resources, and familial influence, contested the position, despite lacking clear lineage ties to the ruling house.
The controversy escalated following a decision in December to remove Yusuf from the race. However, allegations surfaced that his father intervened, persuading Regent Chief Abass Moray Kargbo, to allow Yusuf to re-enter the race, despite his apparent lack of eligibility under Bainanie Kabath lineage. This move was met with immediate legal action, as the Bainanie Kabath ruling house filed a petition in Freetown, Sierra Leone’s capital.
Despite court summons, the electoral process was reportedly tainted by financial inducements, influencing those overseeing the election. A scheduled election on January 12th, 2024, proceeded amidst these allegations, prompting further legal challenges and petitions against the validity of the process. The initial petition highlighted irregularities, including the suspension of proceedings without court resolution, and the subsequent re-declaration on May 21st, 2024, which allegedly disregarded legal objections.
During the election, reports emerged of chaotic scenes as the process devolved into disarray. Instances of voter intimidation and the arbitrary dismissal of election officials, known as “taigas,” exacerbated tensions, leading to widespread panic and voter disenfranchisement. Initial requirements for 2020 tax papers were also criticized as exclusionary, given the impracticality for many residents to produce such documentation promptly.
The unresolved dispute has underscored deep-seated issues concerning governance, traditional authority, and electoral integrity within Sierra Leone’s chieftaincy systems. The Bainanie Kabath ruling house, supported by community members, continues to challenge the legitimacy of Yusuf Musa Kamara’s claim to the Paramount Chieftaincy. Their ongoing legal petition seeks to invalidate the election results, highlighting the need for transparent and fair electoral practices that uphold community trust and traditional governance structures.
As the legal battle persists, the outcome of this dispute holds significant implications for Munu/Thala Chiefdom. Beyond determining its Paramount Chief, the case serves as a litmus test for Sierra Leone’s commitment to democratic principles, fair elections, and the preservation of traditional authorities in governance.