Bangura Recounts Prison Visit to Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara

Saidu Bangura has recounted a visit to Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara at Pademba Road Prison, describing the encounter as a reflection on constitutional principles, public service and the rule of law.

Bangura said he visited Kamara on 11 October 2026, when the former Attorney General and Minister of Justice had spent his fourth night behind bars. The account does not provide the legal basis, charges or court proceedings connected to Kamara’s detention.

A conversation at Pademba Road

Bangura described Kamara as his boss and leader, as well as a distinguished former public servant. Kamara previously served as Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission and President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association.

During the meeting, Kamara asked Bangura, “Why u spirit look dae don (why are you looking so low spirited).” Bangura said he responded: “Bra, wit all the sacrifices you don make for dis country, na you really dae inside prison so?”

According to Bangura’s account, Kamara presented his position as a matter of constitutionality. He also referred to a line associated with John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States: “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.”

Kamara was quoted as saying: “This is my contribution to Sierra Leone in these trying times. This is the duty I owe to my profession, my country, and future generations.”

Focus on constitutional principles

Bangura said the visit strengthened his determination to support the principles for which Kamara said he was standing. He argued that constitutional principles should not be reduced to a contest involving personalities or political interests.

In his account, Bangura said the Constitution must remain supreme and that the rule of law should apply to everyone, regardless of political affiliation, social standing or public office.

The account portrays Kamara’s detention through Bangura’s perspective. It does not independently establish the circumstances of the detention, nor does it say whether Kamara remained in custody after 11 October 2026.