AYV News, February 12, 2025
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba has successfully deescalated a significant diplomatic matter with the Guinean Head of State, General Mamady Doumbouya and other officials.
Minister Kabba is widely regarded for his diplomatic acumen and often compared to former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger for his skill in resolving complex international disputes.
This intervention comes in response to tensions stemming from the impoundment of the Sierra Leone Embassy’s utility vehicle in Conakry on New Year’s Eve 2024.
The vehicle was seized by Guinean authorities on suspicion of transporting contraband substances, an incident that quickly escalated into a diplomatic standoff between Sierra Leone and Guinea.
The situation necessitated immediate intervention at the highest levels of Government. In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFAIC) took decisive action by initiating the recall of Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Guinea, Alimamy Bangura, for a comprehensive inquiry.
However, Guinea initially insisted on pursuing legal proceedings within its jurisdiction, delaying the recall and prompting an intense period of negotiations.
Alhaji Musa Timothy Kabba, recognised for his strategic approach to international relations, led a carefully orchestrated diplomatic engagement to de-escalate tensions.
Drawing on Sierra Leone’s longstanding bilateral ties with Guinea, his team worked tirelessly to secure a resolution that safeguarded national sovereignty while ensuring continued diplomatic cooperation between the two nations.
After a week of rigorous discussions, an agreement was reached, preventing further deterioration of relations.
At this stage, no substantive evidence has linked Ambassador Alimamy Bangura to any wrongdoing. However, his recall underscores the Government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and thorough due diligence in handling diplomatic concerns.
Both the Minister and the Ambassador are expected in Freetown on Monday February 10, 2025, marking the commencement of an internal review aimed at fully assessing the circumstances surrounding the incident and reinforcing the country’s diplomatic standing.
While investigations are ongoing, the swift and calculated response by the MFAIC has played a pivotal role in mitigating potential diplomatic fallout. With the matter now under internal review, the Government is poised to determine the next course of action to uphold justice and safeguard Sierra Leone’s reputation on the global stage.
As the situation continues to unfold, the incident serves as a critical lesson in the complexities of diplomatic missions abroad. However, it also reaffirms the Government’s steadfast commitment to protecting national interests while maintaining constructive international relations.
