Dr. Patricia Laverley, a representative of the African Development Bank in Tanzania, is facing assault charges following an alleged incident involving a Cabinet Minister at State House in Sierra Leone. After pleading not guilty to charges of Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm and Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm, she was granted bail with conditions. The case highlights the serious nature of her allegations given her prominent position.
Dr. Patricia Laverley, the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) representative in Tanzania and former Deputy Minister of Finance for Sierra Leone, is facing serious legal charges following an alleged assault incident that reportedly occurred at State House. Charged with Inflicting Grievous Bodily Harm and Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm, Dr. Laverley made her initial court appearance on November 15, 2024, where she pleaded not guilty to both counts. The case stems from an alleged confrontation involving Nabella Farida Tunis, a current Cabinet Minister, on November 12, 2024.
Magistrate Santigie Bangura presided over the hearing in Pademba Road Court No. 2, and the prosecutor, Yusuf Isaac Sesay Esq., requested a future date to present evidence. Defense attorney I.S. Yillah argued passionately for bail, emphasizing Dr. Laverley’s longstanding public service and current role, asserting that she presents no risk of escaping prosecution. In contrast, the prosecution cited the severity of the charges, stressing that the incident occurred in a significant government building involving a high-profile individual, advocating for bail denial to underscore the serious nature of the situation.
Following deliberation, Magistrate Bangura acknowledged the seriousness of the alleged offenses and the context of the incident. Ultimately, bail was granted at 100,000 Leones (approximately $4,400), contingent upon two sureties who must be established residents of Freetown, and travel restrictions were imposed, requiring court approval for any international travel.
The African Development Bank, focusing on socio-economic development initiatives across Africa, appointed Dr. Patricia Laverley as its representative in Tanzania in 2021 due to her extensive experience in financial policy and governance. This appointment followed her previously held position as Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Finance, where she cultivated substantial expertise in high-level negotiations and financial operations in the East African region. As a prominent figure linked to both the AfDB and the Sierra Leonean government, her recent legal challenges mark a significant intersection of her career in international finance and politics.
In summary, Dr. Patricia Laverley, a prominent figure in international finance and development, faces grave legal accusations stemming from an alleged assault at State House, involving a ministerial colleague. While she has pleaded not guilty, the implications of the charges are profound, particularly considering their occurrence within a critical governmental context. The case underscores the vigilance necessary for public officials, especially when entangled in controversies of a violent nature. As the judicial process unfolds, Dr. Laverley’s professional reputation and the circumstances of her charges will likely have significant repercussions in both the local and international spheres.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
