AYV News, June 20, 2025
The Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Amb. Tamba Lamina, has formally revoked the suspension of Paramount Chief Haja Mariama Gassama Kanja IV of Gorama Mende chiefdom, Kenema district, following a directive from His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio.
The announcement was made during a meeting held at his office which brought together key stakeholders of the chiefdom, including Paramount Chief Kanja IV, caretaker Chief Wahid Kallon, the Provincial Secretary of the Eastern Province, the Senior District Officer of Kenema district, and the Deputy Secretary of the Ministry.
Minister Lamina expressed appreciation to all parties for honoring the invitation and acknowledged the collaborative spirit that prevailed during the course of the Paramount Chief’s suspension. He commended Chief Wahid Kallon for maintaining peace and stability in the Chiefdom while serving as caretaker.
“The President has directed that the suspension of Paramount Chief Haja Mariama Gassama Kanja IV be lifted with immediate effect,” Minister Lamina stated. “The decision follows a series of engagements held between the President, myself, other stakeholders, and the Paramount Chief over the past months.”
The Minister emphasized the need for a smooth and peaceful transition of leadership and instructed the provincial and district administrations to facilitate the process accordingly.
While reinstating Paramount Chief Kanja IV, Minister Lamina issued a strong caution, urging her to avoid the actions that precipitated her suspension earlier this year. He reminded her of her obligations under the Chieftaincy Act of 2009, particularly Section 29(1), with emphasis on subsection (1c) concerning the preservation of customs and traditions.
The Minister directed the Paramount Chief to:
•Review the list of chiefdom councillors;
•Fill all vacant sub-chief positions within six months;
•Promote peace and unity within the Chiefdom;
•Distance herself from individuals or groups that incite conflict;
•Engage with those who suffered losses during the recent conflicts and work towards restoring their properties.
“The Chiefdom must be governed under principles of good governance, with an effective and functional Chiefdom Committee in place,” Minister Lamina noted.
He concluded by announcing plans to convene a closed-door meeting on 19 June 2025, involving the Paramount Chief, other key stakeholders, and government representatives to address remaining issues and consolidate peace in the area.
The suspension of Paramount Chief Kanja IV was initially announced on 12 February 2025, following concerns over instability and unrest in Gorama Mende Chiefdom, which included scenes of violence, intimidation, and a breakdown of trust among the chiefdom leadership.
In her brief statement, the Paramount Chief thanked Minister Lamina and President Bio for giving her a second chance and promised to work with all the directives of the Ministry.
