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𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥…
𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐭𝐲

The first convict Amadu Koita Makalo has been sentenced to a jailed term of one hundred and sixty two years. According to Justice Komba Kamanda, the convict Amadu Koita Makalo is to serve fifty two years each on counts one and two, and for counts 3,4, 5 and 6 he is to serve seventy years, to run concurrently. All other convicts to also serve their different sentences concurrently.
The sentence, Justice Kamanda said will serve as a deterrent to any coup plotter, and the reason for the sentence of the first convict is that he never showed any remorse throughout the trial.
Members of the Jury panel yesterday found Amadu Koita Makalo and ten others guilty of treason for the attempted coup on the 26th November, 2023 in Freetown. They were convicted after all twelve Jurors headed by a foreman Richard Bendu had unanimously delivered a guilty verdict.
In their plea mitigation, the 4th convict Ramatu Kamanda Conteh, 6th convict Hassan Leigh, 9th convict Ibrahim Mansaray and 11th convict Kabba Kamara begged for mercy.
While the other convicts including the 1st convict Amadu Koita Makalo said they had nothing to say.
The first convict Amadu Koita Makalo was found guilty on two counts of treason, six counts of murder and one count of shooting with intent.
Defense Counsels pleaded with the trial Judge, Justice Komba Kamanda to temper Justice with mercy, and extended thanks to both the prosecution and members of the Jury for the journey in the trial.
The lead State Prosecutor Ahmed Joseph Maxwell Bockarie asked the Judge to discountenance the cry of a bread winner as pleaded for by some of the convicts. He further asked for consecutive sentences and not concurrently.
On counts 1&2, State Counsel prayed for sentence of ninety years on each for the first convict Amadu Koita Makalo, and on count 3 asked for seventy years and forty five years on count 4.
The minimum sentence prayed for is five years which is for the counts of harboring and fifty years for misprision of treason.

𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐢𝐨 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐬 𝐓𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲

At a special town hall meeting organised by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education today, July 23rd, Sierra Leoneans will be afforded the chance to talk directly to their President His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio. This august event will take place at the prestigious Bintumani International Conference Center at 4pm and will be broadcast live by the state broadcaster SLBC and AYV whilst community radio stations will be linked directly with Aberdeen.
This extraordinary town hall meeting will be dedicated to President Bio's 12 months of his second term and will focus primarily on the Economy and Big 5, Peace and National Cohesion, Foreign Relations with emphasis on UNSC, and Civic Call to Action.
This will be the first time a sitting President will engage with his constituents and speak directly on key issues of governance. The Ministry of Information and Civic Education has through an online platform made available to the public, gathered questions and concerns and collated for President Bio to address during today's deliberations.
A cross section of the public drawn from school children, ataya bases, business houses etc, will be in attendance.

𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐆𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐂𝐑𝐀 𝐃𝐆

NCRA's Director General Mr Mohamed Mubashir MASSAQUOI is currently in Zambia, on the invitation of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to attend a meeting on CRVS - an effort to improve Civil Registration and Vital Statistics.
This meeting held in Lusaka, Zambia focuses on improving CRVS via the Collection of Vital Events Information through Sample Registration Systems (COVERS). This initiative aims to enhance Civil Registration, Vital Statistics and Identity Systems globally, with a special focus on Africa.
"Despite its fragmented CRVS past, Sierra Leone has significant experience and success stories in this area, and we ask that you kindly share these with the other countries gathered here," said Dr. Nosa of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, in a conversation with NCRA's Director General, Mr. Mohamed Mubashir MASSAQUOI.
The NCRA Director General is a well-known figure in Sierra Leone and on the African continent for his resounding work in Civil Registration, Vital Statistics and ID Management Systems covering, births and deaths (certificates), marriage, divorce and adoption, and NIN for service delivery.
Under the leadership of DG MASSAQUOI, Sierra Leone has achieved substantial progress in CRVS, gaining global recognition for the efforts. Thank you to HE President Bio and our Development Partners for the support.
The workshop brought together experts and officials from over 20 countries across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe.
Other delegates from Sierra Leone include representatives from the Ministry of Health, Statistics SL, the National Public Health Agency, and Research Institutions.
The remarkable transformation of the NCRA in just five years under the leadership of DG MASSAQUOI has been acknowledged throughout the African Continent.
Sierra Leone is on the right path to improving service delivery, the NCRA is such an example, with success in integrating Civil Registration, Vital Statistics and Identity Management, and linking it with other institutions for effective and accountable service delivery.

𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐫…
𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐁𝐮𝐬 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐝
𝐁𝐲 𝐇𝐚𝐣𝐚 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐚

Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Court No.2, along Pademba Road in Freetown yesterday discharged Kelfala Sandy on a one count charge of motor manslaughter contrary to law. He discharged the matter due to the evidence presented before him.
According to the particulars of offence on the charge sheet, the accused on Wednesday, 26th June, 2024 at 12:50 hours at the Methodist Girls High School compound Wilberforce in the Western Urban Area in Freetown being the driver in control of vehicle registration number SCH Bus 002 Golden Dragon did unlawfully kill Elizabeth Mansaray. When the charge was read and explained to the accused person no plea was taken.
When the matter was mentioned in court the father, mother and uncle of the deceased Elizabeth Mansaray informed the court that they had forgiven the accused person for the death of the deceased and they were dropping the charge against the accused.
Taking the witness stand Abdulai Conteh, a businessman said he recognized the accused and he came to know him in relation to the matter. He said the deceased was the daughter of his elder sister Ballay Conteh.
He recalled on the 26th June 2024 when the school authorities called and informed him that the deceased was involved in an accident. He said they went to the scene to confirm her death. He said the matter was later investigated by the police and subsequently charged to court.
The witness told the court that after numerous engagements between the relatives of the accused person and the deceased family they were now dropping the charge against the accused, he concluded.
Counsel F. Kortu defended the accused person whilst Assistant Superintendent of Police Isatu Baba Musa prosecuted the matter.

𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

On Saturday, July 20, 2024, the Minister of Internal Affairs, Retired Major General David T. O. Taluva, accompanied by the Inspector General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu and other government officials officially commissioned a state-of-the-art police station in Mattru Jong, Bonthe District, in Southern Sierra Leone.
In his address, Minister Taluva, representing President Dr Julius Maada Bio, emphasized that the initiative was borne out of the President's desire to improve service delivery, stating that any country with poor policing ethics would reflect negatively on the government.
The Minister also announced plans to have a well-established Police College, with discussions underway to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rwanda Police College to assist the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) in achieving this goal, which, he said, will be a significant legacy of President Bio.
Brig. Taluva noted that the MoU would have been signed earlier but for the recent general elections in Rwanda. He, however, noted that the agreement will be finalized soon, as President Bio is keen on the partnership.
Furthermore, Brig. Taluva revealed that the SLP will collaborate with the University of Sierra Leone for lectures instead of sending police officers abroad for courses, which will empower them with knowledge for effective and sufficient service delivery in the country.
The new police station is the largest and most modern in the country, according to IGP Fayia Sellu. He stated that the station was built to provide an enabling working environment, as per President Bio's vision, which aims to improve service delivery.
IGP Sellu emphasized that when personnel work in a pleasant environment, they become more motivated to deliver better services. He cautioned police personnel occupying the new building to develop a positive mindset and take good care of the facilities.
The police chief also acknowledged the pleas and requests from Paramount Chiefs and stakeholders about the good recommendations of the Local Unit Commander (LUC) CSP Augustine Kabia and his team, as well as additional deployment of police personnel.
IGP Sellu appreciated the increased numbers of community safety volunteers (CSVs) in the division, noting that this concept was part of the restructuring process aimed at fostering a social contract between the Police and the community.
Regarding accommodations, IGP Sellu asked Paramount Chief Alhaji Alieu Badara III to liaise with the LUC to identify spacious buildings with more rooms that can be used by police personnel for easy access; of which the financial obligations will be addressed by the SLP, he noted.
He encouraged the people of Bonthe District to take ownership of the property, given that spreading police stations across the country will help to increase central government authority, as this is the vision of President Bio.
IGP Fayia reaffirmed government's commitment to supporting the SLP; stating that few months ago, Kissy Police Division was divided into two police divisions. Grafton is now a division on its own as well as Koindu, he added.
Meaningful contributions were made by indigenes of the district and community stakeholders with regards the good work of the Police in the district and pledged their total support to responsibly assist the Police for peace to reign in the district.
The occasion was capped off with libation pouring and the inspection of the building.
SLP Media Team

𝐁𝐒𝐋 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝟔𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
By Mohamed Fofanah [email protected]

The Bank of Sierra Leone (BSL) has marked a significant milestone this year, by launching its 60th anniversary to mark the start of celebrations to commemorate the Bank of Sierra Leone.
The 60th anniversary celebration of the bank has a series of programmes, including football and sports activities, thanksgiving services at a mosque and church, a banquet, and a symposium.
The landmark celebration also marked the Bank of Sierra Leone’s journey and tremendous progress, which was established as an embodiment of the country's monetary and economic independence from colonial rule.
Following the enactment of the relevant enabling legislation on March 27, 1963, the Bank of Sierra Leone began operations on August 4, 1964, according to the Deputy Governor of Monetary Stability at the bank, Dr Joseph A. Tucker.
Before 1964, according to Dr Tucker, the monetary affairs of Sierra Leone were managed by the West Africa Currency Board for British colonial West Africa which issued the British West African currency for all British colonies in the region.
But with the commencement of operations in 1964, the issuance of the new currency of Sierra Leone “The Leone” became a primary mandate of the new central bank - the Bank of Sierra Leone.
In 60 years, the Bank of Sierra Leone has adapted and evolved in the wake of internal and international dynamics and recreated itself to navigate the implications of continuously adjusting to the political and economic landscape and steadfastly committed to promoting economic stability, financial integrity, and sustainable economic growth.
Speaking at a landmark ceremony held at the BSL headquarters in Freetown on Monday, the Governor of the bank, Dr Ibrahim Stevens said over the past six decades the Bank has steadfastly upheld its core mandates, adapting to the evolving financial landscape with resilience and innovation.
Amid domestic and global challenges, Dr. Stevens said the Bank of Sierra Leone has demonstrated unwavering resilience and has strengthened its resolve to build a robust and dynamic financial system that serves the people of Sierra Leone effectively.
With the theme: “Repositioning the Bank of Sierra Leone to Better Deliver on its Mandate in an Evolving Domestic and Global Environment,” the Governor said the theme for the celebration had been carefully selected to ensure it aligns with the desire to commemorate the past and focus on the enchanting future which is froth with challenges.
“The theme encapsulated our resolve to reposition the bank to effectively navigate rapid advancements in technology and strengthen the financial sector as well as mitigate financial exclusion,” said Dr Stevens; adding thus, “Regardless of external shocks, our goal of achieving and maintaining price and financial stability remains uncompromised.”
He said the rise of cryptocurrency, digital currencies, artificial intelligence, and cybercrime presents both challenges and opportunities. He added that the Bank of Sierra Leone is committed to embracing these advancements while safeguarding the integrity and security of its financial system.
He reiterated that their primary objectives include issuing and managing the nation’s currency; achieving and maintaining price stability; fostering a sound financial system; and supporting the government’s economic policy. These goals he said are intricately linked to the country's national aspirations for a stable, inclusive, and resilient economy for all.
“Achieving price and financial stability remains our foremost priority. The recent decline in inflation, from a peak of 54.59% in October 2023 to 35.84% in May 2024, underscores our efforts to stabilise the economy.”
“This downward trend in inflation is projected by the Bank to be sustained, while there are upward risks to the projections, including higher global energy and food prices,” he said. “Recently, monetary policy has been consistently tightened to contain inflationary pressures. This stance has been adopted in compliment with other reforms, including permitting lending in other currencies and allowing transactions in currencies other than the Leone on a case-by-case basis.”
He said, “The observed stability of the Leone is a key outcome of our commitment to credible policies to anchor inflationary expectations in spite of the externally generated challenges.”

𝐊𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐫𝐮 𝐊𝐚𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐢 𝐒𝐚𝐲𝐬…
“𝐈’𝐦 𝐃𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐒𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐲”

Chief Abdul Kadiru Kaikai of the ruling SLPP (Sierra Leone Peoples Party) has apologized openly for his “dangerous and irresponsible” statement. In a leaked video circulated on social media, Abdul Kadiru Kaikai threatened to wage war in the country if he does not become President of the Republic of Sierra Leone in 2028.
Because of the seriousness of the threat, the Sierra Leone Police on 19th July arrested and detained Mr. Kadiru Kaikai pending the outcome of the investigation.
The SLPP, to which Mr. Kaikai belongs, issued a press statement, distancing themselves from Mr. Kaikai’s utterances and suspending him from the party.
See Page 3 for Mr. kaikai’s public apology contained in a signed press release he issued yesterday from detention.

𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
𝐈𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐎𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐟 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 & 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲

Since 2018 when the SLPP government swept to power, the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, has been rated as one of the best performing Ministries.
Since the inception of the Free Quality School Education (FQSE) program in August 2018, successive Ministers in the MBSSE (Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education) did extremely well in its implementation.
When Conrad Sackey was appointed as Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education in July 2023, many people applauded the decision, because, he is a technocrat. Before his appointment as a Cabinet Minister, Conrad served as Chairman of the Sierra Leone Teaching Service Commission. He is known within government circle as “Mr. Clean”.
Since his appointment, Conrad has been on top of his Ministerial brief. He has handled and continues to handle difficult issues in his Ministry including the School Feeding Program. He has taken tough decisions that have saved the government Billions of Leones in horrendously handled procurement activities.
Conrad was tough enough to remove one of his deputies as supervisor of the School Feeding Program because of vested interest. He has restructured the program and appointed an Interim Head to superintend over it. This decision has made him a victim of political blackmail.
Conrad has always insisted that, whatever decision he takes, is in the best interest of the 800,000 pupils that are supposed to be the direct beneficiaries of the School Feeding Program. He said protecting the legacy of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio in the implementation of the Free Quality School Education program is far more important to him than trying to appease greedy, selfish and corrupt politicians.
Conrad is blessed to have a Permanent Secretary that is well-known for his strict adherence to laid down rules and regulations. Mr. Brima S.T. Kebbie, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, is a man that is difficult to influence. He is seen as a hard nut to crack. He is insusceptible to corruption.
When he was appointed as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Basic Education, he embarked on a one-man crusade to clean up and tidy the mess he inherited in the procurement of services in the Ministry. He is seen as a hands-on Permanent Secretary. He has a vast management experience. Many people call him “Mr. Difficult”. He believes that, things must be done in the right way.
Mr. Kebbie’s decision to tackle corruption root and branch in procurement activities in the Ministry of Basic Education and in the Free Education Project Secretariat (FEPS) has made him a target of political blackmail. He is being threatened by certain unscrupulous people parading as SLPP big guns. The man has refused to budge. He believes that he is doing the right thing in the best interest of the country. The Minister who supervises him is happy with his performance. He is even happy and comfortable to continue to work with him.
Nobody knows why a junior Minister in that Ministry continues to intimidate and harass a senior civil servant just because the man is putting measures in place to protect the meagre resources of the state. Many people are asking: How can a junior Minister threaten to influence the transfer (or posting) of a Permanent Secretary that has an excellent working relationship with his Minister and donor partners that are supporting the Ministry?
The Secretary to the Cabinet and Head of the Civil Service should stand up and protect good officers in the Civil Service. He should not leave them at the mercy of well-known corrupt politicians who are using their connections in the party to cover their dirty tricks.
We salute the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education and his uncompromising Permanent Secretary. They are the beautiful ones!

𝐋𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐟 𝐀𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐁𝐲 𝐀𝐛𝐝𝐮𝐥 𝐊𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐫𝐮 𝐊𝐚𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐢

𝐒𝐋𝐏𝐏 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐀𝐛𝐝𝐮𝐥 𝐊𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐫𝐮 𝐊𝐚𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐢

No room for hate speech, violence, and bigotry in our Nation. We condemn in its entirety the statement by Mr. Kadiru Kaikai and he remains suspended from our party pending a disciplinary hearing for further actions. Not again, not in Sierra Leone.
Napoleon Koroma SLPP Sec Gen.

𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
𝐃𝐫 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐮𝐫𝐚 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐚’𝐬 𝐃𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐦𝐚

As the Tripartite Committee presented their final report to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, so many political observers ponder over the future political career of Dr Samura Kamara both within the body politics of the country and emerging leadership contests in the APC. Today, many believe that Dr Samura Kamara himself faces his own personal tripartite challenges amidst his countless efforts to reengineer his political future.
Firstly, leadership struggle within his party. This explains why he has continued to hold on to his own emerging outcome of the tripartite recommendations as it constitutes a sort of oxygen for him. What does the end of tripartite mean for his future political end game? What else can he hold on to as à mobilizing vehicle to continue to garner support across the various levels of the APC not least the nuisance wing?
Secondly, holding on to the tripartite also helped mask the stark reality of his New York Chancery case which most of his party members have distanced themselves from given the overwhelming evidence that the case presents. Does he want to use the tripartite as a bargaining tool with the government?
Thirdly, the seeming generational and ethno-regional challenge within the APC is another headache for Dr Samura Kamara. This is perhaps the most difficult to navigate. For some political observers, Karene District was carved out to salvage the deep-seated frustration over Bombali’s stranglehold over the APC party. Dr Samura Kamara being an indigene of Karene District was allowed to pass in 2018 and 2023 although grudgingly. He still wants to lead the party for a third term in a row. Other big guns in the party from across the entire North, East and mostly Western Area now think it is their turn to lead the party. There is a slow motion revolution within the party to reverse the Limbanization/Lokonization of the leadership drive. This is going on side by side with a wide spread notion that the gray-haired men in the APC need to give way to a young and vibrant leadership that has what it takes to challenge the SLPP in 2028.
The tripartite succeeded in concealing this underlying current and slowed down the change demand process within the broader APC. How long more can Dr Samura Kamara hold on amidst this slow motion revolution? Does he have all it takes to manage the flame of change blowing from below?
As majority of APC supporters are confident that 2028 is a near done deal depending on who leads the SLPP ticket, it is clearly evident that the APC is getting prepared and how this plays out in the future is vital to the transition elections of 2028. No matter what, 2028 will usher in a new President of the Republic of Sierra Leone.
The two leading political parties (APC & SLPP) now believe that, it is time to put up Muslim candidates for the 2028 Presidential election. Muslims constitute 78% of the Sierra Leonean population.

* # # GLOBAL TIMES NEWSPAPER # # #*

𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐋𝐏𝐏 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐧

A senior member of the ruling Sierra Leone's Peoples Party Abdul Kadiru Kaikai has been arrested and detained by the Sierra Leone police.
According to reliable Police sources, Abdul Kadiru Kaikai was arrested this morning Friday, 19th July 2024 at his Majay Town residence by CID personnel for a viral video he posted on social media, where he stated in a recorded video that he will bring a deadly war in Sierra Leone if he is not made President of Sierra Leone in 2028.
He has been detained at the CID headquarters for questioning, and he will be charged to court later. A senior Police Officer said.
See Police press statement below .

SLP PRESS STATEMENT
The attention of the Siera Leone Police has been drawn lo a video clip widely making rounds on social media, depicing one Abdul Kadiru Kai Kal expressly stating in our local parlance that "ar nor bi president 2028 ar dae bring serious war na dis kontr if ar nor get am (president) ar go bring war na dis kontri wae go wars pass d wan wae nor bodi nor expect Ar well prepia foram, ar well borget for ram..for bring war ya, na ebot 3.3 million dollars for stat na Masheka..."
This statement is loosely translated as: do not become presldent of Slerra Leone in 2028, I wil mastermind and bring a big war tn Sierra Leone, far warse (than anybody ls expecting. am well prepared and had even budgeted for it. To bring war in Slerra Leone, one only needs 3.3 million United States Dollars to start at Masiaka.
Given the seriousness of the statement and its effect on national safety and security, the Sierra Leone Police, through the Criminal Invesligations Department, has Intiated an investigation concerning that video in circulatton on social media and the sald suspect (Abdul Kadiru Kai Kai) has been arrested and presently in custody.
The investigation seeks to ascertaln the veracity of the statement and the intent and motive of the maker. The public will, in due course, be infomed of the outcome of the Investigation.
Members of the general public are encouraged to go about their normal business as their safety and seured at all times.

𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐎𝐟 𝐁𝐨𝐢𝐢’𝐬 ‘𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐀𝐥𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭’ 𝐒𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲.

The wait is over. Cribs International has announced to release a new song of their newly signed female artiste Boii‘s titled “Feel Alright” set to be released today on all platforms.” it's time to presave the FEEL ALRIGHT by BOII song for tomorrow release.”
The young talented singer has been growing popular among Sierra Leonean audiences, since the Snippet of Feel Alright was released on 05th June 2024.
With Boii’s verified Tiktok, the snippet song has so far received over 2 million streams and over 10,000 videos contributed on Tiktok in just a month.
Boii explains that the song starts with the phrase "whine me," a challenge to those who try to provoke her or seek a reaction. She emphasizes that she is not someone to be easily disturbed. This theme of resilience is woven throughout the song, reflecting Boii's strong personality
Martha Moimanya Fahnbulleh Koroma popularly known as Boii is a young female musician signed to Cribs International record label. Her rise to fame began earlier in 2023 with the release of her hit single ‘Credit Alert’
Prior to her signing with Cribs, Boii Martha debuted under the KME musical group with a collaborative track called ‘Never Enough’ and was also lucky to get a co-sign from Masterkraft, one of Africa’s top producers who was privileged to hear her while handling some projects for the label.
Since the snippet was released in March, ‘Credit Alert‘, her first project with Cribs International has continued to grow popular among Sierra Leonean audiences with millions of plays worldwide. After the release of ‘Credit Alert’, streaming platform Audiomack Africa also created a special cover featuring the talented singer.
Presave the song https://sndo.ffm.to/ynrozl1
On December 15th, 2023, Boii released her second single, ‘Sangere,’ further solidifying her position as a rising force in the Sierra Leonean music scene. With more projects in the pipeline, Boii is poised to ascend the ranks in 2024, captivating audiences with her captivating melodies and infectious energy.

Presave the song here https://audiomack.com/boiimanya/song/feel-alright-1

𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲'𝐬 𝐄𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐟 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐩𝐞𝐫

𝟕 𝐀𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐬....
𝐋𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐎𝐟 𝐁𝐨𝐦𝐛 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 $𝟗𝟒, 𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐎𝐟 𝐈𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐫𝐮𝐠𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝

In early March 2023, intelligence officials in Sierra Leone uncovered a plot involving individuals suspected of importing bomb-making materials into Sierra Leone. A special operation was launched to identify and disrupt their activities.
After months of surveillance, a joint operation by intelligence, military, and police forces was carried out on Sunday, July 7, 2024, targeting several locations in and around the Western Area. The operation was a success, resulting in the seizure of various bomb-making materials, including: 12.5 kg empty gas cylinders, High-grade TNT (Trinitrotoluene), Detonators, Firing devices, Timers and other bomb-making components disguised as powdered laundry detergents and soap.
Additionally, on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, a further search at the residence of suspect Hussein Antar led to the discovery of 7,847,100 Captagon pills. These pills, a dangerous and addictive amphetamine-type stimulant, were concealed in bedroom refrigerators and air-conditioners. Captagon is known to be widely used by ISIS and fighters in Syria. The estimated street value of the seized drugs is $94,155,200.
The following individuals have been arrested and are assisting the police with investigations:
1. Hussein Antar
2. Jamal Antar
3. lbrahim Bashiru Kamara
4. Samuel Marah
5. Abdul Aziz Kamara
6. Alieu Kamara
7. Ackmed Bangura
We urge anyone with information related to these activities to contact the Sierra Leone police.
Investigations are ongoing, and the public is assured that our intelligence and security forces are effectively managing the situation. There is no need for panic.
In another development the Sierra Leone Police has supplied high quality rain gears to junior officers to expedite their duties even during the down pour of heavy rain.
According SLP sources the senior officers will soon get their own set of rain gears.
"It's the first time I've received such a high quality customised rain gears since I joined the police force" a traffic officer in the east of Freetown said.

𝐌𝐏𝐬 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐨'𝐬 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

The Parliament of Sierra Leone on Thursday, 11th July, 2024 debated and ratified with unanimity an Indigenous Seaport agreement for the development and economic growth of Sierra Leone.
The following agreement was approved by the Parliament of Sierra Leone:
Concession Agreement Between the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone and The Gento Group of Companies (SL) Limited For the Design, Financing, Construction and Operationalization of a Seaport Within the Dublin and Ricket Communities of Banana Islands and Logistics Hub (Habour Terminal) at Kent in Sierra Leone Dated, 5th July 2024.
Presenting the agreement, the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Ambassador Fanday Turay, said the Gento Group of Companies intended to undertake a development of a world class Ports facilities in the south Ricket of Banana Island.
According to him, the construction company specialized in the marine sector, adding that the proposed seaport intended to primarily serve as a hub in the Africa sub region.
Ambassador Fanada Turay underscored that with this agreement, the Nations stands at a critical junction where the demand efficiency, prudent, and infrastructure would be addressed. The Minister informed that the volume of trade had increased and stressed on the need for advancement on marine technology and expansion of Ports' capabilities.
"The Construction of this new seaport is a necessity, in order to keep pace with global standards and to meet the growing needs of our people and Industries" he maintained and went on "Mr Speaker Honourable Members, this seaport is approximately $2 billion USD investment which is expected to be in full operation within three-year years".
The proposed port the Minister reassured will in no way affect the existing operations of the Queen Elizabeth II Quay.
The Minister highlighted the economic benefits, including the employments of thousands of compatriots, amongst others. He disclosed that the Gento Group of Companies has allocated 10% share to the Government of Sierra Leone and will also be paying royalties and other related fees and charges.
The Minister said the port will serve as a hub to international trade, attracting foreign investors, boasting exportation, durability, and reducing the cost of importation. He also reassured that the port will definitely reduce the global price of goods and services for the benefit of every citizen.
He told the House that the location of the facility is very accessible, strategic and will serve as the future state-of-the-art facility for advanced cargo handling system, expanded docking spaces, that would attract more international shipping lines and Logistics.
According to him, the port has a natural deep water harbour with a water depth of almost 24 metres making it the deepest port in Africa, with an estimated 60 million worth of Cargo capacity of accomodations for larger container vessels annually.
The shipment board is expected to generate a profit margin of over USD 800milion for the first three years of operations.
The overall vision is to create a port that is not only efficient and secured, but also environmentally sustainable, incorporating technologies that attract ecological footprint.
The port the Minister revealed will be a significant source of revenue through which port fees, customs duties, and other charges that are paid.
The Minister also underscored that the port would attract global connectivities and would serve the subregions including Guinea, Liberia Mali, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, etc.
He concluded that Gento Group of Companies is equally committed to protecting the environment and has done environmental impact assessment, adding that the development is in line with President Bio's vision.
Chairman of the Oversight Committee, Hon. Maada Lebby thanked the Ministers of Transport and Aviation and Fiance for the implementation of the vision of President Bio. The MP said the agreement is a big boost for the economic transformation. "President Bio promised to give jobs and is becoming a reality, "he informed and assured Colleague MPs that the agreement was straightforward and transparent and went to reaffirm the commitment of Gento Group.
On his part, the Deputy Leader of Opposition 2, Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma appreciated the indigenous nature of the agreement. He thanked the CEO of Gento Group of Companies Mohamed Gento Kamara. The MP said the agreement will right the wrongs in light of the historical perspective of Banana Island and would lead to the influx of trade leading to the reduction of price of goods and services. He underscored the 20- 24 meter depths of the harbour, which will allow bigger cargo vessels to come to Sierra Leone within lower freight charges. He went on to say the project will put Secton 24 of the Finance Act 2024 in moribund as this project will create a retention of proceeds of 100% as against the 30% repatriation as required in the Finance Act, which he said would significantly affect the Foreign exchange market and economy.
"The 10% share is to be owned by the government, and there is a clause for the latter to add share" he disclosed. While commending government for its commitment, he went on to ask the latter to provide a line of credit of at least USD 20Million to Gento Group of Companies through Bank of Sierra Leone at an interest rate of 5%. He however called on the government to consider giving an interest free line of credit since government itself is a shareholder. He went on to positively compare the investment to international companies and encouraged the government through the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Sierra Leone to initiate engagement with the African Export and Import Bank (AFRIEXIM Bank) to support support the project.
The protection of the marine lives and the creation of livelihoods for residential fishermen the MP said were very important and also implored the government to consider the reduction of the many fees and charges to be paid by Gento Group including incurring payment for the Engineer who should be the representative of the government in the project.
The Chief Whip of Parliament, Hon. Dickson Rogers also thanked the Minister for bringing very pivotal agreement and informed the House that the agreement is touristic. He said the company would be paying fifty thousand United States Dollars for community development, which he described as sustainable and convenient. He stated that the agreement is part of their Government Manifesto.
Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara Opposition Whip from Kambia District lauded the ownership of the company relating it to his home Kambia District and informed the House that prior to the commencement of the agreement, the company had started developmental projects for the host communities. He underscored the importance of local ownership, highlighting and lauding tangible infrastructures done by local entrepreneurs, including the same company. "This agreement is Sierra Leonean own, let us do justice to it, "he maintained and spoke about the economic viability of the agreement.
Contributing to the debate, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh commended earlier speakers for their contributions and encouraged the Bank Governor and Minister of Fiance to ensure tentation of foreign currencies to support the construction of the seaport project, in order to stabilize the economy. While commending the Minister of Finance for controlling inflation, he said it was time to balance the trade in that direction. "Gento, you have the support of this House," he noted and informed that the latter performance is great. He recalled the company's employment of locals.
In her contributions, Hon Rugiatu Kamara from Tonkolili District lauded the local ownership of the agreement and said that it was a clarion call to Sierra Leoneans living abroad to invest in their country. She reiterated that Sierra Leone is a virgin economy that attracts several potential investments, including agriculture and health amongst others. She thanked former presidents and current for supporting indigenous investments. "We can not move forward, if the chunk of our investment is in the hands of foreigners," she expressed.
She used the opportunity to thank President Bio for bringing a rice project in Makally.
Hon. Joseph Williams-Lamin from Bo District described the day as exceptional and unique with the presence of the Bank Governor and Minister of Finance. The MP spoke about the hugeness of the investment and the efforts of locals in that sector. "We are proud of you, and we can go home happily," he maintained and went on to say the agreement was a win, win situation. He said the government is in the right direction.
The Speaker of Parliament Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas also used the opportunity to urge the Minister of Finance and the Bank Governor to support the agreement to become credible, adding that, the Government has already made a commitment of twenty million United States Dollars and urged them to attract other financials. "This particular investment is going to help Sierra Leone in various ways," he revealed.
Rounding up the debate, the Acting Leader of Opposition,
Hon. Brima Daniel Koroma encouraged the speaker to draw the attention of Gento Group of Companies to the road transiting from Modern via Parliament to Vice President Office for consideration.
The agreement he said is an indigenous one and assured the House that the opposition would support it.
The Opposition Leader reiterated that they want to ensure that irregularities are corrected in all agreements that come to Parliament and raised concern over a certain Clause in the agreement and requested clarification.
The speaker quickly interjected and ruled that the hanging sentence in that particular Clause be completed.
Continuing, the Acting Opposition Leader advised the Speaker to ensure that henceforth Parliament conduct special session on agreements that come before them and highlighted clauses in the agreement that were not accurate. He used the opportunity to raise concern over the pay as you earn to foreign workers in their countries and in other currencies and not in Leones.
He also continued to highlight and raise concern over some clauses that were dealing with tax exceptions.
The Acting Leader finally encouraged colleague MPs to ratify the agreement and advised the House to modify agreements in the future prior to ratification.
Concluding the debate, the Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie said the agreement is very unique and would create more local millionaires. He said due diligence had been followed, and the first paragraph pleases him the most. He reflected that the government promised to diversify the economy, and today, it has been done in the area of seaport. He extolled the proactive efforts of Gento Group of Companies and encouraged other compatriots to emulate the same initiative. "This agreement is two billion dollars," he maintained and recalled the suspension of taxation on previous agreements. He informed the House that since an indigenous company had laid the premise, other agreements would henceforth pay taxes of that nature. He expressed happiness over expatriates, exchanging of ideas and knowledge to local as stated in the agreement, adding that in the future, Sierra Leoneans would control the entire business. He encouraged Sierra Leoneans to prepare their minds to tapping into a related career. He used the opportunity to ask the Minister of Finance to give credit lines whilst expressing dismay over high bank interest rate that discourages business. "We expect the Minister of Finance and the Bank Governor to do exactly what is in the agreement," he stated and urged them to support Gento.
"Whatever profit he made will be left in Sierra Leone" he maintained.
He emphasized on robust Committee oversight to monitor the project construction and make sure that what had been ratified be implemented. He thanked MPs for their various contributions.
The Speaker of Parliament vehemently urged the Minister of Finance and the Bank Governor to support the project to succeed.