By Mamajah Jalloh
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Patricia Laverley, a former Minister of Finance and current African Development Bank (AfDB) representative in Tanzania, appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura at Pademba Road Court No. 2 on Thursday, November 14, 2024. She faces two charges: Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm and Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm, contrary to the Offences Against the Person Act of 1861.
The charges stem from an alleged incident on November 12, 2024, at State House, where Laverley is accused of assaulting Cabinet Minister Nabella Farida Tunis with intent to inflict grievous harm.
During the court proceedings, Laverley pleaded not guilty to both charges. Lead Prosecutor Yusuf Isaac Sesay requested an adjournment to prepare for the presentation of witnesses.
Defense counsel I.S. Yillah argued in favor of granting bail, citing his client’s distinguished career and reputation. He emphasized that Dr. Laverley had served as Sierra Leone’s Finance Minister for four years and currently holds a prominent position at the AfDB in Tanzania. Yillah argued that there was no evidence suggesting she was a flight risk and assured the court that Laverley would comply with any bail conditions imposed.
The prosecution opposed the bail request, arguing that the alleged offense occurred at the State House, involving a senior government official. Prosecutor Sesay contended that granting bail could undermine the severity of the allegations, stating that “the law is no respecter of persons.”
Magistrate Bangura acknowledged the gravity of the alleged incident, particularly given the location at State House, but ultimately granted bail. Laverley’s bail was set at 100,000 Leones, with two sureties of equal sum. The sureties are required to be responsible citizens residing in Freetown, certified by the Freetown City Council, and must guarantee the accused’s appearance in court. Additionally, Laverley is prohibited from traveling outside the country without explicit permission from the Master and Registrar.
The case has been adjourned to November 20, 2024, for further proceedings.
