Sierra Leone opposition politician released

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone (AP) — Authorities have released a prominent opposition politician in Sierra Leone who was accused of making statements that could undermine state security.

Charles Francis Margai had been detained after speaking about a land dispute he has with Sierra Leone's first lady. Margai said he would fight for his land and said he would be backed by militia forces loyal to him.

His lawyer, Robert Kowa, said Monday that Margai has been released on bail without charge though he must report to police every other day.

Margai was among the candidates who contested the presidential election in 2012 election and lost to incumbent President Ernest Bai Koroma. Margai's party does not hold a seat in parliament.

Sierra Leone is still recovering from a brutal 10-year civil war that ended in 2002.

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Sierra Leone: Opposition politician arrested

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone (AP) — A Sierra Leonean police official says that a prominent opposition politician has been arrested for making statements to undermine state security.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Ibrahim Samura said on state radio Saturday night that Charles Francis Margai was detained for alleged subversion.

Margai earlier in the week spoke about a land dispklute he has with Sierra Leone's first lady, Sia Koroma. Margai said he would fight for his land and said he would be backed by militia forces loyal to him.

The threat of militia violence comes as Sierra Leone is recovering from a 10-year civil war that ended in 2002.

Margai was among the candidates who contested the presidential election in 2012 election and lost to Ernest Bai Koroma. Margai's party does not hold a seat in parliament.

View the original article here