WHAT CIRCUMSTANCES LED TO OMRIE GOLLEY’S RELEASE?

By AS Tuboku-Metzger

Omrie Golley, the former spokesperson of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF), was arrested in 2006 by the SLPP government for treason, allegedly plotting to overthrow the government and assassinate Vice President Solomon Berewa. He was detained for 22 months before being released in 2007 by the APC government, led by President Ernest Bai Koroma, who appointed him Ambassador to South Korea.

The circumstances surrounding his release are as follows:
– The Attorney General’s office found no evidence to substantiate the treason allegations against Golley and two others, David Kaitongi and Alpha Bah.
– The Attorney General, Serry Kamal, signed a “no case” order, leading to Golley’s release.
– President Koroma stated that Golley’s release was part of his government’s commitment to review politically motivated cases and promote transparency and fairness in the judiciary system.
– Golley’s release sparked debate, with some questioning the government’s interference in the judiciary process.

Golley’s past is complex, with accusations of perpetuating the war and supplying weapons to the RUF. However, he claims his role was to help bring peace to Sierra Leone. He was appointed Ambassador to South Korea in 2013, aiming to lobby for development support and strengthen ties between the two countries.