Former President Ernest Bai Koroma Granted Medical Leave Outside Sierra Leone

January 17, 2024

In a significant development, Former President Ernest Bai Koroma has been granted permission to leave Sierra Leone for urgent medical treatment. This decision comes following a successful bail review application presented by his legal team, seeking a ninety-day allowance for his overseas medical attention.

Justice S.O. Taylor, after careful examination of the bail conditions, authorized Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, currently facing charges of Treason and others, to travel abroad for medical treatment.

The approval follows earlier reports highlighting the health challenges faced by Ernest Bai Koroma, including hypertension, diabetes, and cardiac problems. Over the past two months, his health has deteriorated, particularly after his alleged connection to a coup attempt.

A medical report emphasized severe chest pain and the necessity for a medical procedure not available in Sierra Leone, emphasizing the urgency of his situation. The report warned of the risk of a severe heart attack without immediate treatment.

While it's not yet clear which country Former President Koroma will travel to for his medical checkup, his Lawyers stated that he is expected to appear before the court on March 6, 2024.

This development has sparked public discussions on the state of the country's healthcare system, with some expressing frustration over the apparent shortcomings and advocating for improvements.