Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah ESQ, a prominent Social Activist and Lawyer in Sierra Leone has directed attention to the constitutional boundaries governing the current nationwide curfew in the country.
Marrah stressed that Section 29(3) of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone restricts the curfew’s validity to a maximum of seven days without the President declaring a State of Emergency, which necessitates approval by a two-thirds majority in Parliament.
He highlighted, “The people of Sierra Leone have overwhelmingly upheld constitutional democracy in the post ‘failed attempted coup’ on the 26th November. We are grateful to our brave soldiers who defended our democratic governance. Our thoughts go to those who lost their lives defending our peace and freedom. The Government’s response, both in action and rhetoric, has been firm yet measured. I am reminding the Government that the current nationwide curfew cannot exceed 7 days constitutionally without the President declaring a State of Emergency, approved by two-thirds majority—Section 29(3) of the 1991 Constitution. Upholding constitutional order should not involve disregarding constitutional norms. Respect for the rule of law must be unwavering, not selective.”
Marrah also praised Sierra Leoneans for their staunch support of constitutional democracy following the ‘failed attempted coup.’ He extended gratitude to the courageous soldiers who safeguarded democratic governance and offered condolences to the families of those who sacrificed their lives during the defense of peace and freedom.
