African Development Bank representative in Tanzania facing State House assault charges in Sierra Leone
African Development Bank (AfDB) representative in Tanzania and former Deputy Minister of Finance for Sierra Leone Dr Patricia Laverley
What you need to know:
- The appointment was based on her in-depth knowledge of the Bank’s operations in the East Africa Region and her solid track record in high- level dialogue, including as a former Deputy Minister of Finance.
Freetown. The current African Development Bank (AfDB) representative in Tanzania and former Deputy Minister of Finance for Sierra Leone Dr Patricia Laverley is facing charges connected to an alleged assault.
Dr Laverley, who got her education in the US and in the UK, was appointed the AfDB’s country representative for Tanzania in 2021.
The appointment was based on her in-depth knowledge of the Bank’s operations in the East Africa Region and her solid track record in high- level dialogue, including as a former Deputy Minister of Finance.
But on November 15, 2024, Dr Laverley appeared before Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No. 2 in Freetown, facing faces two charges—Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm, under Section 20 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, and Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm—both arising from an incident on November 12, 2024, at State House involving Nabella Farida Tunis, a serving Cabinet Minister.
Presiding Magistrate Santigie Bangura of Pademba Road Court No. 2 read the charges to Dr Laverley, who pleaded not guilty.
The lead prosecutor, Yusuf Isaac Sesay Esq., requested a later date to present witness testimonies. Defense counsel I.S. Yillah argued in favor of bail, noting Dr Laverley’s record as a long-serving public servant and her current position with the African Development Bank. He asserted that she poses no flight risk and will comply with any bail conditions imposed.
In opposition, the prosecution underscored the seriousness of the alleged offense, highlighting that the alleged assault took place at State House and involved a high-ranking official.
Sesay urged the court to deny bail, arguing that “the law is not a respecter of persons” and Dr Laverley should understand the gravity of her actions.
Magistrate Bangura acknowledged the sensitive nature of the incident, noting the gravity of the offense and the setting of the alleged crime.
However, he was granted bail set at 100,000 Leones (about $4,400) with two sureties who must be Freetown residents verified by the Freetown City Council.
Additional conditions restrict Dr Laverley’s travel, requiring court permission for any trip outside the country. (Agencies)
