In a landmark ruling that marks the end of a prolonged legal battle, the High Court of Sierra Leone has officially dismissed the election petition filed against Paramount Chief Bai Forki Fenkeh II, reaffirming his legitimate leadership of Maforki Chiefdom in Port Loko District.
The judgment, delivered by Justice Momoh Jah Stevens on Wednesday, brings closure to a case that has lingered since 2024, following the 2022 Paramount Chieftaincy election. The petitioner, one of eight contenders, had challenged the election’s transparency, alleging irregularities. However, the court found no substantial evidence to support the claims, thereby validating the election results and solidifying PC Fenkeh II’s position.
Following the court’s decision, the Paramount Chief’s wife, Miss Forki Fenkeh, expressed deep appreciation for the support shown by the people and the justice system.
“My husband contested against eight contenders and emerged victorious in the run-off by 298 votes,” she noted. “The process was transparent. Every group had a representative and the people came out in large numbers to vote for the future of their chiefdom.”
She also spoke about her active involvement during the legal proceedings, saying, “We’ve been in court since November last year. I had to personally support the legal team and work hand-in-hand with Lawyer Saccoh. Now, we’re calling on everyone, including our challengers, to unite for the good of Maforki.
Chiefdom Administrative Clerk, Amadu Wurie, detailed the timeline of events leading up to the court ruling. “The first round of elections was held in July 2022, but no candidate met the required 55 percent. A run-off in August saw Bai Forki Fenkeh II secure a clear win. Since then, he has been diligently serving his people, even as the legal challenge persisted.”
Amadu praised the court’s decision, emphasizing that “justice has finally been served” and expressed hope that the chiefdom can now focus on governance and development without distraction.
Chiefdom Speaker Alimamy A. Kamara lauded the judiciary for its independence and fairness, while hailing the resilience and leadership of PC Bai Forki Fenkeh II.
“Justice has been delivered,” Kamara declared. “Leadership comes with criticism, but that shouldn’t deter us. Even while this case was in court, our Paramount Chief stayed focused on peace and development. The people stood by him, and today, their trust has been justified.”
Highlighting the size and importance of the chiefdom, he added, “Maforki has about 20 sections and is one of Sierra Leone’s largest chiefdoms. The changes already taking place under his leadership show his commitment. Now, more than ever, we need unity.”
Kamara ended with a powerful appeal: “We are one people. Even the petitioner had moments of reconciliation, congratulating the Chief in public. That’s the spirit we need—reconciliation, not division.”
With the legal hurdles now behind him, Paramount Chief Bai Forki Fenkeh II is set to lead with renewed vigor. The ruling opens a new chapter of peace, inclusion, and development in Maforkie Chiefdom. Local residents, many of whom remained hopeful throughout the case, are now optimistic that this decision will enable more progress and foster harmony across the chiefdom.
Community members and stakeholders are being urged to put aside political and personal differences and join hands in building a stronger, united Maforkie.
As the dust settles on the courtroom battles, the message from Maforkie is clear: the people are ready to move forward together.
