Lawyer Ady Macauley Considers Appeal in Treason Verdict

July 30, 2024

Renowned Sierra Leonean lawyer Ady Macauley, who defended Emmanuel Salifu Kamara, former bodyguard to ex-President Ernest Bai Koroma, and Inspector Ibrahim Sesay in their recent treason trial, is contemplating an appeal.

Macauley indicated the potential appeal after reviewing the judge’s summary and directions to the jurors for any errors. He and his clients believe the prosecution did not prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and are dissatisfied with the court's verdict.

“We believe the prosecution failed to prove the guilt of our clients beyond reasonable doubt. However, our clients remain convicted, and we have to overturn what we consider a flawed decision,” Macauley stated.

The court sentenced SGT. 10020 Emmanuel Salifu Kamara to 52 years for counts 1 and 2 (to run concurrently) and 40 years for count 7. ASP Ibrahim Sesay received 40 years for count 15 and 4 years for count 16.

Macauley questioned the validity of the evidence, particularly disputing claims of Kamara’s communication with the alleged plotters on the day of the attempted coup, November 26, 2023. He emphasized that the telephone logs showed no such communication on that day, with calls between Kamara and the individuals mentioned occurring about a month prior and being routine colleague interactions.

Macauley expressed disagreement with the jurors’ conclusion, noting a significant disparity between the trial’s facts and the verdict. The trial involved charges of treason and serious offenses related to an alleged coup attempt, which authorities deemed a major threat to national stability.