Claim: Former President Ernest Koroma to Face the ICC Soon
Verdict: FALSE
Context: A viral newspaper clipping claiming to be a front-page edition of the New York Times suggests that Sierra Leone's former President Ernest Bai Koroma will soon face the International Criminal Court (ICC). The clipping has been widely shared, raising concerns and speculation. President Koroma is currently on trial in his home country on allegations of treason, misprision of treason and two counts of harbouring. But, was granted bail on medical grounds and is currently in Nigeria.
Evidence: To verify the claims, Sierra Check conducted a thorough investigation.
Contact with Former President Koroma’s Office:
Source: Ishmael Sheriff, Principal Assistant to Former President Koroma.
Statement: Sheriff categorically refuted the claims, stating that there is no basis for such allegations.
ICC Official Platforms:
Website: Sierra Check reviewed the ICC’s official website (icc-cpi.int).
Social Media: The ICC’s official Facebook page was also examined.
Findings: There are no announcements or documents indicating that former President Koroma is facing trial at the ICC.
New York Times Verification:
Website: The New York Times official website (nytimes.com) was reviewed.
Findings: There were no articles or reports at any point in time carrying the story as alleged in the viral clipping.
Conclusion: The claim that former President Ernest Koroma is to face the ICC soon is entirely false. There is no evidence from the ICC or credible news sources, such as the New York Times, to support this claim. The viral newspaper clipping is a fabricated piece of misinformation.
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