By Kadiatu Sankoh
In a significant development for the people of Gorama Mende Chiefdom in Kenema District, Paramount Chief Haja Mariama Gassama Kanja IV has officially been reinstated following the revocation of her suspension by the Office of the President. The directive, dated 17th June 2025, called for her immediate return to leadership and instructed that all necessary actions be taken to ensure a peaceful and orderly transition.
According to the letter received from the Office of the President, the decision underscores the importance of maintaining good governance as outlined in the Chieftaincy Act of 2009. Key provisions highlighted in the directive include the restoration of a functional and effective Chiefdom Committee, strict adherence to Section 29(1c) of the Act which requires the preservation and promotion of the Chiefdom’s customs and traditions, and collaboration with provincial authorities to review and update the list of Chiefdom Councillors, filling all vacant positions within six months.
The Office of the President further emphasized the role of Paramount Chief Gassama Kanja IV in fostering peace, development, and unity throughout the Chiefdom. Provincial officials have been tasked to continue monitoring the transition process to ensure stability and harmony within the community.
Expressing profound gratitude upon her reinstatement, Paramount Chief Mariama Gassama Kanja IV thanked His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for the trust and confidence restored in her leadership. She also extended appreciation to First Lady Madam Fatima Bio, the Minister of Local Government, the Minister of State for the Eastern Region, Hon. Ibrahim Koroma (Member of Parliament), the Mayor of Kenema City, Dr. Tiffah Bayoh, the Provincial Secretary for the Eastern Region, the ONS Coordinator, and the Senior District Officer of Kenema for their various roles in facilitating her return.
In her statement, Paramount Chief Gassama Kanja IV also paid special tribute to her fellow Female Paramount Chiefs—P.C. Sallay Satta Gendemeh, P.C. Forwai, and P.C. Faugawa—for their solidarity and encouragement during her period of suspension. She acknowledged the steadfast backing of the Four Section Chiefs and the Senior Town Chief of Gorama Mende, the Mammy Queen, the Youth Leader, Mr. Mohamed G. Kallon, and the prominent Baio, Koroma, Lawyah, Gbanie, and Kallay families.
Further appreciation was extended to the management and staff of Starline Radio in Kenema, as well as to all members of the Chiefdom and supporters who stood by her in difficult times, advocating for justice and her reinstatement.
As she resumes her duties, Paramount Chief Gassama Kanja IV called upon the youth and the entire population of Gorama Mende to maintain peace, unity, and mutual respect. She reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to a leadership style rooted in inclusiveness, justice, and cultural pride, pledging to guide the Chiefdom toward greater development and lasting harmony.
Her reinstatement marks a new chapter for Gorama Mende Chiefdom, as community members look forward to renewed progress and stability under her leadership.
