Home Blog Page 1099

LODA Condemns Acts of Violence & Violation of Human Rights

By Foday Moriba Conteh

A Civil Society Organization, League of Democracy Advocates (LODA), with Ibrahim Sorie Dumbuya as Executive Director , has on 8 May 2020 expressed concern over the ugly developments characterized by the recent spate of violence that have been serially and continuously taking place on diverse dates and places.

The organization registered its sincere condolences to the bereaved families of the victims of the different ugly incidences that occurred.

It went on to state that it could be recalled that on the 29th April, 2020, an alleged attempted prison break occurred at the Central Correctional Centre, on Pademba Road in Freetown, which led to the destruction of property, injuries and loss of lives of some inmates and officers.

However, it continued, on the 30th of April, 2020, another violent incident occurred at Lunsar, again leading to the destruction of several properties (the Paramount Chief’s house and vehicles), loss of life and injuries to civilians.

“On the 6th May, 2020, the cycle of violence continued, this time, erupting at Tombo between some residents, believed to be fishermen, and their designated Chief. This led to loss of lives (Police officers and civilians), destruction of personal and State property, including injury to people,” the Executive Director furthered.

According to him, several accounts have been given as to what possibly might have been the cause of the different incidences.

“This Organization is dissatisfied and worried about the continuous unrest and tension that has seemingly overtaken reasoning in our nation,” Dumbuya stated adding how the ugly developments have the proclivity to undermine our hard-won democracy and peace, which families had sacrificed their lives to defend and achieve.

In stating their position, the Executive Director stated that they condemn the APC and SLPP Press Releases that came out on diverse dates, trading accusations and counter accusations against each other in languages that have the tendency to incite violence and unrest.

He also condemned the unreasonable responses of security officials to all the violence that occurred.

The Executive Director said the organisation notes the extensive human rights violations on inmates on the 29th April, 2020 and is concerned about the apparent continuous human rights violations committed by State security in the discharge of their duty on all situations.

He said the organisation also notes the deliberate disrespect of the provisions of the Nelson Mandela Rules, Universal Declaration Of Human Rights and the 1991 National Constitution of Sierra Leone.

In proffering recommendations he called for the immediate dismissal of the Director of Correctional Services, institute independent and impartial investigations into all recent incidences, the immediate dismissal of the Inspector General of Police and the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, relocation of the Maximum Correctional Service Detention Centre and institute strategic security plans to forestall a reoccurrence of any such ugly incidence (violence or Prison break).

How High Unemployment Threatens Social Cohesion And Political Instability

By Amin Kef Sesay

The fact that unemployed youth are not only victims but also active participants of political instability is not new; as the history of insecurity in Sierra Leone associates high youth unemployment with the numerous situations of instability; notably the rebel war.

Worsening unemployment trends among the youth represents a danger signal for political instability and insecurity.

In appreciating the involvement of youth in conflicts and political instability, therefore, the youth unemployment question must be adequately prioritized as a key component of poverty alleviation efforts in national policy making.

The issue critically has to do with the relationship between unemployment, social cohesion and political instability.

High levels of poverty exist among youths, even though most need to support their families and work for survival. As such, high youth unemployment carries strong undercurrent of systematic marginalization and neglect of young people at many levels of governance and development policies.

The rate of unemployment among young people therefore points to the broader lack of equitable distribution of resources and marginalization – hence a sense of frustration and anger that easily boils over into crime, violence and anti-social behaviours.

Even where an appreciable number of employment opportunities exist, these are quickly outpaced by the growing youth population. Consequently, the percentage of  the working poor is higher among young people.

The result is pressure on unemployed young people to survive which demonstrates the critical need for social inclusion against a backdrop of dwindling opportunities, corruption, and fast-paced modernization.

Meanwhile social inclusion is challenged and threatened by lavish materialization and rising individualism of the rich and their dissociation from the rest of society.

Social constructs are thus altered in many ways as the relevance of social structures and the State are questioned in the desperate quest for survival in the midst of crushing dynamic demographic stresses, such as rapid urban population growth, increasing numbers of illiterate, semi-educated, unskilled young people and diminishing resources, particularly land. This has led to high rates of disaffected youth whose perceptions of the future are bleak.

In the above context, the society has to grapple with double desperadoes – unemployed young people who are both (a) desperate for opportunities that promise a better life and so are (b) vulnerable to recruitment by individuals and groups who promise such deliverables. Together with other social realities, vulnerable youth populations have become easy recruits for crime, rebel militias, political gangs and extremist networks.

Given the fact that such young people have nothing to lose, the cost of their recruitment into conflict is low, thereby increasing their propensity to contribute to political instability, collective violence, crime and conflicts.

It can be recalled that during the 1990s in the Sierra Leone, Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire conflicts, the mix of these factors made it easy for warlords to exploit unemployed young people as soldiers.

Among other things, worsening unemployment trends are an important measure of inept leadership and the general lack of good governance. Growing levels of unemployment are a precursor of an explosive red alert situation and explain the involvement of unemployed youth in the many conflicts and political instabilities on the continent.

Thus, peace in Sierra Leone that can enhance durable security and development can only be achieved through politicians resetting the mindset of the people from regional and political antagonism and confrontation to mutual understanding and tolerance for the cultural and ideological differences that exist among us.

The political parties, in this regard, should work closely in and out of Parliament to ensure that the voices of women and youth are integral to peace processes, and agents of change.

Fragile and conflict-affected situations take a huge toll on human capital, creating vicious cycles that lower people’s lifetime productivity and earnings and reduce socio-economic mobility. People are deprived of money, education and basic infrastructure simultaneously.

On the economic front, urgent action is needed in a country severely impacted by fragility, conflict and violence to end extreme poverty. “Addressing humanitarian crises requires immediate support and long-term development approaches,” said World Bank Group President David Malpass.

“To end extreme poverty and break the cycle of fragility, conflict, and violence, countries need to ensure access to basic services, transparent and accountable Government institutions, and economic and social inclusion of the most marginalized communities. These kinds of investments go hand in hand with humanitarian aid.”

Religious Leaders Denounce Spate of Violent Disturbances

Cross Section of Religious Leaders in Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef Sesay

In the wake of violent eruptions in different parts of the country, representatives of the Christian community in Sierra Leone comprising the Catholic Mission, the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL), the Evangelical Fellowship of Sierra Leone (EFSL), the Pentecostal Fellowship of Sierra Lone (PFSL), the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA), the Strategic Evangelistic Network (SEN) have expressed grave concern.

During a Press Briefing held on Thursday 7th May 2020 at the Council of Churches Hall on Kingharman Road in Freetown, the Chairman of the Council of Churches-Sierra Leone (CCSL) Bishop John K. Yambasu told the media that in the midst of frantically struggling to bring the corona pandemic under control, Sierra Leone is unfortunately degenerating into political chaos which they believe MUST be addressed immediately.

They noted with disappointment the increasing level of violence currently prevailing in the country including the riot at Pademba Road Correctional Centre and the outbreak of violence at Lunsar, Falaba, Foredugu and Tombo. According to Bishop Yambasu such is a cause for security concern to all peace loving Sierra Leoneans.

Below is a reproduction of the Press Statement:

Statement on the Current Security Situation in the Country

Representatives of the Christian Community in Sierra Leone comprising the Catholic Mission, the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL), the Evangelical Fellowship of Sierra Leone (EFSL), the Pentecostal Fellowship of Sierra Lone (PFSL), the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA), the Strategic Evangelistic Network (SEN) have been carefully following up on the spate of violence that is gradually spreading across our beloved country in recent times and has left us genuinely and seriously perturbed

In the midst of frantically struggling to bring the corona pandemic under control, Sierra Leone is unfortunately degenerating into political chaos which we believe MUST be addressed immediately.

We note with utter disappointment the increasing level of violence currently prevailing in the country including the riot at Pademba Road Correctional Centre and the outbreak of violence at Lunsar, Falaba, Foredugu and Tombo. This is a cause for security concern to all peace loving Sierra Leoneans.

We note with grave concern that the peace of our country is threatened by many detestable hate speeches and incitement laced with obscenities and invectives both within and outside this country that have flooded the social media. Undoubtedly this is an irresponsible use of the social media.  Sad to say these incitements have led to the loss of human lives and burning down of both private and public properties in some parts of the country.

We are appalled by the level of lawlessness pervading the country.  There is a growing national concern that this level of lawlessness is a threat to national security and political stability.

Hence we acknowledge with gratitude the sacrifices made by our security forces including the loss of lives in the discharge of their duties.

We have observed with dismay the high-handed manner in which some members of the security forces effect arrests and call on them to perform their roles responsibly and with respect for the rule of law.

All of these we believe are as a result of the political tension primarily between the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the main opposition All People’s Congress Party (APC). This unnecessary tension is a scary reminder of the very factors that led this country into eleven years of senseless civil war, about which politicians seem to have forgotten so quickly. We seem to have thrown overboard the report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and its recommendations. We are concerned that our beloved nation may once again degenerate into total chaos if we allow this circle of violence to continue unchecked.  When politicians fight each other, it is the ordinary people that suffer.

Thus as moral guarantors;

We call on His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio to do everything possible within the confines of the laws of this nation to restore law and order and protect the rights and dignity of all Sierra Leoneans

We appeal to the leadership of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), and the main opposition party, All People’s Congress (APC) to give peace a chance and allow for the consolidation of our fragile democratic governance structure where all Sierra Leoneans will live in peace and tranquility.  This country has suffered for far too long and Sierra Leoneans deserve nothing but the best.

We unequivocally condemn all forms of violence and call on all perpetrators to immediately desist from such dangerous activities as they are not in any way in the interest of peace and stability.

We out-rightly denounce all forms of hate speech and incitements including the use of obscene language especially in the social media.

We call on all our youths to resist being misled and used by politicians but rather channel their energies to the good of the country.  It is our joint responsibility to ensure that this country continues to grow from strength to strength.

We call on all Sierra Leoneans both at home and abroad to be patriotic and join the fight against the common enemy COVID-19.  Together, we can subdue this pandemic and save our country from its ravaging consequences.

Finally, we call on all Sierra Leoneans to turn to God in prayer and allow God to reign in this nation. We draw on 2nd Chronicles 7: 14 which says “If my people who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land”.

God heal our beloved nation Sierra Leone!

U.S. Embassy Hands Two Ambulances to RSLAF

The United States Ambassador, Maria Brewer & The Deputy Minister of Defence and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) Commander with other personalities

By Amin Kef Sesay

On May 6, 2020, the United States Ambassador, Maria Brewer, met with the Sierra Leone Deputy Minister of Defence and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) Commander, Joint Forces to deliver two newly refurbished four-person Mercedes Benz Unimog ambulances.

During the handing over ceremony it was stated that as part of a bigger program of logistics improvement for the RSLAF, the ambulances were prioritized in order to assist with the Sierra Leonean response to the COVID-19 global pandemic.

It must be noted that over the past two years, the United States, United Kingdom and Sierra Leone have embarked on a comprehensive security cooperation strategy aimed at returning the RSLAF to the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations.

In addition, it was also understood that one critical component of that plan has focused on the vital improvement of both RSLAF vehicles and equipment. Whether used on peacekeeping operations or for internal crisis response, two refurbished ambulances are an essential addition to the RSLAF inventory.

It was highlighted that the United States is both proud and honoured to work side-by-side with the RSLAF in the continued development of Sierra Leone’s military and security capacity.

Ambassador Maria Brewer said, “these vehicles will not only be helpful during our present challenge but will also be key instruments to enable the RSLAF to more effectively respond to crises within Sierra Leone. I am proud to be handing over larger vehicles that will be able to handle even extremely challenging situations like flooding and could carry up to four people each.”

The United States Ambassador, Maria Brewer & The Deputy Minister of Defence and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) Commander with other personalities
The two newly refurbished four-person Mercedes Benz Unimog ambulances

CGG Boss Dilates on the Significance of Media Discipline

From l-r: Marcella Samba Sesay, Abu-Bakarr Sheriff Esq. and Lucy Ann Ganda

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Executive Director of Campaign for Good Governance (CGG) Marcella Samba Sesay has expressed the view that in the context of discipline, it is not only about moral etiquette but it is also about quality, the packaging, rebranding, posture and the looks.

She furthered that: “When we talk about media discipline, I think this is what it entails and so it is not only about mediating conflict but also about ensuring that the media present itself as a force to reckon with.”

Marcella was speaking as the Vice Chairperson of the newly constituted SLAJ Disciplinary Committee during a complaint hearing and meeting with Regional Executives of the Association and representatives of national media groups at the SLAJ Headquarters in Freetown on 1st May, 2020.

The meeting was organised by the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) with funding from NED. The CGG head reminded journalists about the change in dynamics in the media landscape and the need to understand that it is only important that within this change context, they are able to find a niche and situate traditional media effectively. Society, she said, has a lot of hope and aspirations on this crop of people who should be able to bring credible, timely and valuable information on a daily basis.

The tools of the trade have also changed and keep changing, she said. “We also need to understand that we should be able to practically use available tools in modern day to empower this work we do. Despite the fact that we are talking about traditional media, the modes, patterns and ethics that we have been used to five/ten years ago are no longer the same because they have changed tremendously. We need to position ourselves to these changing dynamics,” said Marcella.

According to Marcella, society has moved from that traditional space as the media is now seen as being able to take a frontline and engage Government on critical issues bordering around the State because they are in possession of the requisite information.

The media, she said, need to use such information to influence policy and to facilitate the desired change society needs. “We are actually playing a pivotal role and so if we are part of ensuring that we support this media discipline, I think this is the way we want to go,” said Marcella. Conflict, she said, is inevitable as people will become agitated and there will be issues to resolve. “Other than that, we want to accompany the media in an era of growth which is want we want to do as a team.

We want to ensure that when we look at the Sierra Leone media landscape, we would be able to say within this period, we were able to grapple with critical issues and there have been men and women of substance who have risen to the occasion,” said Marcella. On behalf of her institution, CGG, she thanked the leadership of SLAJ for giving her the opportunity to collaborate with the media.

“The work we do is advocacy, fostering a cohesive society and equally so changing the behavior pattern of individuals. So without effective collaboration with the media, it’s almost impossible to achieve our goal in our campaign,” she noted.

Their campaign, she added, uses predominantly the spaces that are available to reach out to the public. “If we are collaborating with the media, it is important that we collaborate with a professional entity; an entity that is able to stand the test of time, shape society and for which citizens can get trusted information from,” said Marcella.

Other members of the Disciplinary Committee present at the meeting were Abubakarr Sheriff Esq. and Lucy Ann Ganda. Abubakarr Sheriff Esq, who is the Secretary of the Disciplinary Committee, said the wheels of change in SLAJ are moving rapidly and they, as committee members, are pleased to be part of that.

The role of journalists, he said, is enshrined in the 1991 Constitution and ‘it is a statutory mandate as part of our civic responsibility as citizens’. But in playing that role, he said, there has to be rules and regulations. “We already know that by way of statute, there is also the Independent Media Commission. I know what it means to be an editor and journalist in this country; the challenges are too many but as professionals we have to strive to do the right thing.

We are not coming with cane in our hands to flog our colleagues. I would say this is not a censorship but it is part of the processes of self-regulating ourselves. We all know the draconian libel laws and the earlier they are expunged, the better for all of us,” said Sheriff Esq. adding that the Committee will not work alone but will journey together with media practitioners and media groupings towards ethical and professional journalism.

Earlier, the Chairman of MRCG, Dr. Francis Sowa, said since the election of the new SLAJ Executive there have been calls for enforcement of the SLAJ Code of Ethics. “We should note the importance of this document; that it is among the package for the repeal of the Criminal Libel Law. In other words, it shows our own seriousness that we are able to regulate ourselves. The best form of regulation is self-regulation.

Today is a very important day that we are starting this complaint hearing session with all the Executives of SLAJ and heads of other media organizations. I believe after today, the President of SLAJ would be in a better position to widely disseminate this code.

This process today is sending a message to the wider community that indeed as journalists we are serious about regulating ourselves, which is why the MRCG, for which SLAJ is an integral part, with our little support through NED think it would be good to support a meeting of this nature because SLAJ is our own member,” said Dr. Sowa.

Furthermore, he said the importance of the SLAJ Disciplinary Committee is also related to the current situation at hand with COVID-19. “We have started hearing complaints from the public about some media institutions in the way they even come out and report. Granted the majority of media institutions have done remarkably well. We consider this as a land mark event in terms of ensuring professionalism within SLAJ. I only hope that when we go back to our different organizations, we will let the other members know that the code exists,” he said.

Meanwhile, the SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla thanked the MRCG for supporting the meeting and paid tribute to the outgoing Disciplinary Committee comprising of Joshua Nicol, Dr. Williette James and Mamadi Gobeh Kamara. “The committee is now fully operational.

We have strengthened its composition; before now we have only three members who were all from the Association but following a resolution we had at our 2017 AGM, during which our membership called for reconstitution and strengthening of the committee, we agreed to co-opt two members from the public to make their own contributions because they are the core recipients of the product that we give out which is news and information.

So we now have five members; three professional journalists and two members from the public. The Disciplinary Committee will now be supported by district and regional monitors,” said Nasralla.

All of this, Nasralla continued, is coming against the backdrop of the repeal of the Criminal Libel Law and one of the key concerns of Parliamentarians is about the assurances that SLAJ will give to the public in terms of ensuring ethical and professional practice.

Nasralla said the SLAJ constitution provides for a DC that should help popularise and enforce the SLAJ Code of Ethics and maintain discipline within the Association. Through a power-point presentation, Nasralla highlighted key sections of the Code and encouraged journalists to strictly adhere to them in the conduct of their trade at all times.

 

On the Occasion of Europe Day 2020… EU Tom Vens Calls for Unity to Combat COVID-19

the European Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Tom Vens

By Amin Kef Sesay

In celebrating Europe Day 2020 last Saturday 9th May 2020 the European Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Tom Vens, disclosed that they were marking Europe Day and the 70th anniversary of the formation of the European Union.

He opined that at the heart of Europe Day is the very important occasion to celebrate peace.

“On Europe Day, the European Union Institutions and their Delegations all around the world traditionally organise a variety of events and activities to mark this important occasion, to celebrate the European values of unity and solidarity and to reaffirm our ties with our partner countries,” he revealed further highlighting that the COVID 19 pandemic has not made such possible during this year.

Ton Vens stated that the ongoing crisis leaves no room for social gatherings saying their thoughts are going out to all those who are fighting against the virus or suffering because of it. “The COVID-19 pandemic is touching every community and every household, affecting nearly every aspect of our daily lives,” he underscored adding how that has become very personal for many of them.

He noted that COVID-19 is changing our world stating that we must not let it drift us apart but rather the global challenge should bring us together as a world community as has never happened before.

The European Ambassador stated that at the global level the European Union is taking resolute actions and mobilising all means at its disposal to help their partner countries with their national responses.

He said the European Union firmly stands with Sierra Leone during these difficult times pointing out that they are here, together. “We are supporting the Government, the People and communities of Sierra Leone to eradicate the COVID-19 virus and to make the country safe for all. This is not just a commitment: we are doing it,” Tom Vens expressed determination.

He said they are constantly adapting their priorities, programmes and projects and have mobilised additional funds to support the COVID response in Sierra Leone.

But at the same time, he continued, they cannot be blind to the other development needs stating how they will continue to build roads and bridges, continue to invest in education and stronger institutions, continue to support agriculture and food security during these difficult times.

“At a time like this when it is easy to be overwhelmed by emotion, fear, anxiety and insecurity, staying true to our values of solidary and unity is crucial,” he furthered adding beating the coronavirus pandemic requires extra-ordinary efforts at all levels and from all of us.

He said at a time like this, even our smallest actions as individuals can have great meaning maintaining that we can all do something to make things better: by uniting as a nation and making space for constructive engagement, by complying with guidelines and measures that have been put in place, by spreading awareness about the virus, by sharing facts instead of rumours, by preserving a peaceful environment.

Tom Vens said they know that Sierra Leoneans are strong and resilient saying they saw it during Ebola and know it is possible now.

“Are you passionate about your country? About partnership and development? Do you want to share your views on how we can all help during this pandemic ?” he asked sending an invitation to make voices heard on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/EUinSierraLeone/, where ,he said, they are creating a virtual space to celebrate Europe Day, starting last Saturday.

He said on the occasion of Europe Day, as EU they would also like to express their sincere thanks and appreciation for all those who are on the frontline to combat the COVID-19 disease in Sierra Leone.

Tom Vens said they take hope from all the doctors, health care professionals and sanitation workers who bravely and tirelessly provide vital care and support during this crisis.

“If you help a person, you help a family. If you help a family, you help a community. If you help a community, you help a country. If you help a country, you help humanity,” he enjoined ending up in Krio: “Tem lek dis, wi for join an togeda for fet corona virus komot na Salone. Wuna tenki!”

 

Alpha Khan Appointed as Strategic Adviser

Hon. Dr. Alhaji Alpha Bakarr Sahid Kanu

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a new development that has surprised many, President Dr Julius Maada Bio has, on the 7th May 2020, appointed APC strongman Hon. Dr. Alhaji Alpha Bakarr Sahid Kanu popularly known as Alpha Khan as the Strategic Adviser -Social Mobilization and Food Security at the  Office of the Interim National Coordinator, COVID-19 Response.

Some have interpreted this latest move as a clear demonstration of President Bio’s desire to lead a unified and cohesive nation.

That particular school of thought believes that the President had always reiterated that the development of Sierra Leone requires collective effort.

Many have commended Hon. Alpha Kahn for accepting the call to serve his nation especially at a time when some of his colleagues have chosen the path of fanning tribal and regional bigotry through hate and divisive messages among supporters.

It could be recalled that the Hon. Alpha Kanu served in various Ministerial capacities under the former APC Government and was also National Publicity Secretary of the APC party.

He is known to be an eloquent speaker who can inspire people and a very good mixer. That besides, he is said to be highly knowledgeable and very versatile.

East End Lions Joins the Fight Against COVID-19

Cross sections of officials of East End Lions Football Club during the presentation

By Amin Kef Sesay

As part of their support towards the fight against the coronavirus in the country, Champions of Sierra Leone Premier League 2019, officials of the East End Lions Football Club, has on Saturday 9th May, 2020 donated the sum of Twenty Million Leones, 20 Bags of Rice and 200 bars of Soap to the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). The donation was done at the forecourt of the Emergency Operation Centre at Cockerill in Freetown.

Present during the donation were the Spokesperson for the Covid-19 Response, Solomon Jamiru Esq, Chairlady of East End Lions Football Club, Asmaa James, Membership Global Coordinator and Sponsorship East End Lions Football Club, Dr Fatou Taqi, Technical Lead Covid-19 Response -Brig. Prof Foday Sahr, Member of Strategic Planning Covid-19 Larry Bassie, Head Coach East End Lions Football Club, Coach John Keister, officials of the club Festus Sowa, Abdul Karim Kabba (AKK), players and Staff of the EOC.

In her presentation, Chairlady East End Lions Football Club, Asmaa James, said that East End Lions Football Club as the Champions of the Sierra Leone Premier League decided to donate to the Emergency Operation Centre in order to show their solidarity with the Government, People of Sierra Leone and to give their support in the fight against COVID 19, adding that they are aware about the constraints the EOC is facing in trying to curtail the spread of the virus in the country. She maintained that it was against such a backdrop that they thought it fit as a football Club to give support to the fight which she said could only been won if all hands are on deck so that the country will resume normalcy and get their boys back to the pitch.

She expressed appreciation to their Elders and the Chairman of East End Lions Football Club, Amb Junior Navo, Executive, fans and players for the support they have been giving towards the development of the club.

Receiving the donation on behalf of the EOC, the Spokesperson for Covid-19 Response, Solomon Jamiru Esq, applauded the East End Lions Football Club for their support towards the fight against the Covid-19 in the country.

He admonished all to adhere strictly to the practices and measures instituted by the Government, through the Ministry of Health and Sanitation and other stakeholders in order to curtail the spared of the virus in the country.

He called on other football Clubs, individuals or organizations to support the fight with whatever little they can offer noting that nothing is too small for a national fight like this.

He promised that he will present the donation to the Head of EOC Retired Brigadier Hassan Kellie Conteh and his team underscoring how he knows they appreciate  their gesture ending up, on behalf of the Emergency Response Center, by extending thanks and appreciation to the East End Lions Football Club.

One official of East End Lions Football Club handing over the Twenty Millions Leones Cheque to the Spokesperson for Covid-19 Response, Solomon Jamiru Esq.
Cross sections of officials of East End Lions Football Club during the presentation

‘Empowered Women Empower Women’ & Partners Donate Food Items to Vulnerable Children

Mrs. Jennifer Adeshola Thomason ,who happens to be the pioneer of these organizations.

By Foday Moriba Conteh

‘Empowered Women Empower Women’ a feminist organization, in partnership with ‘No Child Left Behind Initiative’, has on Saturday 9th May, 2020 embarked on a Coronavirus sensitization drive and distribution of food items which includes Rice, Maggi, Onions etc. and facial masks to the less privileged children within the Adonkia community. The event took place at the Goderich Community Centre in Freetown.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Vice President of ‘Empowered Women Empower Women’ Dorren Barrie said as part of their support towards combating the coronavirus in the country the two organizations saw the need to embark on sensitization drives and distribution of food items and facial masks targeting over 200 children.

She stated that at a time like this when the coronavirus is ravaging the country the welfare of children should be considered as very important, adding that handing washing, social distancing and the use of facial masks are very important towards curtailing the spread of the virus in the country.

“In that regard we also used the opportunity to educate the children on hand washing and the use of facial masks,” she furthered.

She stated that the intervention of these organizations in the fight is a clear manifestation that they care for the welfare of children even in the midst of the coronavirus outbreak, which she said is indicative of the fact that they are committed to contribute to the socio-economic development of children and the nation as a whole.

She expressed appreciation to Mrs. Jennifer Adeshola Thomason ,who happens to be the pioneer of these organizations saying she has been working tremendously in order to support less privilege children across the country.

She also admonished the parents and the children to strictly practice what the Government, through the Ministry of Health and Sanitation and other stakeholders have put together in terms of the protective measures in order to curtail the spread of the coronavirus in the country.

One of the beneficiaries, Fatamata Bangura expressed appreciation to the two organizations for the gesture which she described as very timely , adding that as it now things are not really easy. She narrated how she normally sells just to put food on their table, but said with the donation received it will help them greatly. She also called on other humanitarian organizations and individuals to follow the footsteps of these organizations during a crucial moment like this.

Abu Kanu, a parent of one of the beneficiaries, also expressed appreciation for the donation which he also said is not only important but a timely move by these organizations.

He also urged citizens to adhere to all preventive measures in order for us a nation to combat the deadly virus in the country in order for things to become normal again.

Vice President of ‘Empowered Women Empower Women’ Dorren Barrie handing over the food items to one of the beneficiary
Cross Section of members of both Organizations
Vice President of ‘Empowered Women Empower Women’ Dorren Barrie handing over the food items to one of the beneficiary

As He Responds to Violent Upheavals…   Bio Spits Fire

President Julius Maada Bio

By Amin Kef Sesay 

President Julius Maada Bio on 8 May 2020 addressed the nation in unequivocal terms, days after violent incidents erupted in different parts of the country to which he specifically responded.

He first called on all Sierra Leoneans to celebrate the ties that bind us as a nation and not the angers that blind us also outlining how they convened a national convention that agreed to institute a permanent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion that would identify and address all triggers of conflict in our nation.

He furthered that over and over again, he asked every Sierra Leonean to contribute to build inclusive and resilient national institutions, to consolidate our democracy, and to build a peaceful Sierra Leone.

“The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists has acknowledged that they practice journalism freely and we are working with them to repeal obnoxious laws and further enhance professional development in journalism,” the President revealed adding that  Civil Society Organizations are speaking up freely and holding Government accountable for which they are grateful acknowledging that they are playing their part as citizens.

“Organized labour organizations, professional organizations, religious bodies, Paramount Chiefs, community stakeholders, the private sector all continue to contribute positively to our peaceful co-existence as a nation,” he highlighted maintaining how the International Community in Sierra Leone continues to engage with Government and Sierra Leoneans in general in fostering peace and supporting development.

He noted that in this Holy Month of Ramadan, Sierra Leoneans, irrespective of ethnicity and political party, buy and sell in the same markets, live peacefully in the same communities and breakfast and worship Allah Subuhanah wa T’Allah together and in peace.

President Bio stated that presently Sierra Leone is contending with COVID-19 that has already killed over two hundred thousand people worldwide including Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad saying we will remember them and their families.

“We will also continue praying for our compatriots and their families who are currently battling with this highly infectious and deadly disease,” he said with emotion also thanking and urging Sierra Leoneans to continue to comply with all hygiene and public health directives as we work hand-in-hand to rid this country of the Corona Virus.

He called for solidarity and cooperation from all well- meaning Sierra Leoneans across the nation to join in informing and mobilizing communities to prevent, curtail, and protect against COVID-19.

The President said it is times like this, in our country’s greatest hour of need, that we should all voluntarily stand up for our shared values, our common destiny, and the only place we call home.

He said when Ebola ravaged the nation he did not wait for an invitation or a telephone call to lead his party’s social mobilization and fight against Ebola.

“I travelled to every part of this country that was accessible to me and delivered a message that was in consonance with the Government’s strategy and objectives in fighting Ebola,” he disclosed pointing out that such is what serving the national interest is -not waiting to be begged pleasantly to serve the country and putting the country’s interests always above all else.

He said as President he reached out to all Sierra Leoneans to work together to make the country a peaceful place for all.

“I dispatched the Honourable Vice President to former President Ernest Bai Koroma to initiate dialogue on fostering peace and resolving the acrimony of division,” he asserted disclosing how he followed that with a personal invitation of the entire leadership of the All People’s Congress party to State House, (including former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma), to discuss the way forward for a peaceful and united Sierra Leone.

He said in the post-meeting Memorandum of Understanding, they resolved on working urgently on building a united and cohesive Sierra Leone free of patronage, threats, hate, virulent partisanship, and corruption.

“But within those two years, there has been an unrelenting barrage of attacks against the State, State officials, public and private persons and properties,” the President lamented maintaining how that hearkens back to a public threat issued by the losing Presidential candidate that the All Peoples Congress party would make the country ungovernable.

He said one would therefore expect that the leadership of the All People’s Congress, like the leaderships of the other political parties in Sierra Leone, would have publicly and staunchly condemn as well as dissociate the party from any persons or groups of persons who incite hate, associate with and support violence, or participate in violence against the State.

The President said they have not but rather the leadership has made public statements that have heightened tensions.

“Evidence emerging from investigations have named known local leaders and members of the APC as being responsible for inciting, planning, financing, mobilizing, and in some cases actively participating in violent terrorist attacks against the people of this country,” he alleged.

President Bio hammered that the silence of the national APC leadership on the active participation of their members and executive members in these acts of terrorist violence, senseless loss of lives, injuries and wanton destruction of public and personal property is truly disconcerting.

He strongly underscored that the actions of those persons are not peaceful political expressions as one expects in a democracy pointing out that their actions are carefully planned, coordinated, well-orchestrated and executed acts of violent terrorism targeting the State, State officials, public buildings, and private persons and property.

“Like terrorists elsewhere, they even record their acts with telephone cameras, run self-valorising commentaries on their acts of extreme violence and killings, and share those synchronously in WhatsApp forums,” President Bio further accused.

He said for each of the attacks at Lunsar, Foredugu, Tombo, and the prison breakout at Pademba Road Correctional Centres, known agents and associates of the All People’s Congress party have publicly predicted the precise date, target, and nature of the attacks stating that there is an obvious pattern.

“These attacks are therefore premeditated, orchestrated, and executed with a clear objective – to make the State ungovernable,” he also described. He told the nation that persons who have been arrested are not being held because of their political beliefs or their professional work as journalists.

“Beating a journalist to death, persistently inciting people to violence against the State, the unauthorized carrying of loaded firearms, burning down the homes and vehicles of Chiefs, burning down hospitals and community health centres, burning down police stations, destroying telecommunications installations, burning down large parts of prisons, violently killing persons with machetes and iron bars, are all criminal offences,” he strongly stated.

He said what each and all of them have done are not peaceful political expressions stating that they are either being held on criminal charges or being investigated for criminal violence and terrorism-related offences.

The Commander-in-Chief stated that incitement to extreme criminal violence, arson, murder and attempted murder, other felonious acts targeting the State, State officials, public officials, private citizens, and public and private persons are not peaceful political actions meant to foster peace in Sierra Leone.

He told Sierra Leoneans that the right to free speech is guaranteed in our democracy and in our constitution adding that no democracy guarantees a right to speech that incites criminal violence, foments hate and divisiveness, causes public disorder, and threatens the security and stability of the State.

The President further stated how he is certain that our international partners agree with them that prosperity and development are possible only when there is peace and stability.

He intimated how countries that have prospered have always ensured first that peace and security are maintained stating how international partners, as moral guarantors of our peace, should therefore single out and wholeheartedly condemn persons and organizations associated with such acts of extreme violence against the State.

He again said, in peaceful democracies, citizens strive for the common good, peacefully cohabit with other citizens, and advocate for and protect their rights through peaceful norms and practices.

“Our enforcement agencies and the justice sector will ensure that every citizen’s right to due process is respected and justice is dispensed speedily and without hindrance, fear, or favour,” he revealed, underscoring how the rule of law is supreme, emphatically stating that no citizen, absolutely no citizen, is above the law.

He said his Government has been closely following events of the last few weeks stating how the security sector has closely analyzed the prime movers, financiers, causes, nature, and patterns of violent acts saying their responses are therefore well-informed.

The President said, in very certain terms, that as Commander-in-Chief, he has ordered the intelligence and security forces to use all available resources, and take all measures necessary within the laws of this country to deal promptly, decisively, and robustly with all acts of violence against the State.

“Anybody who incites, plans, supports, undertakes, or is involved in any manner of violence in this country will be dealt with harshly,” the President warmed furthering how they will use all instruments of State power and resources permissible under the laws of this country to deal firmly and decisively with violent terrorist attacks against the State.

He said he has also ordered urgent reforms within the security sector saying the objective is to make their leadership more decisive, more effective in crime prevention and deterrence, and to maintain peace and stability in the face of extreme acts of terrorist violence against the State.

“I have called for more citizen engagement so that communities are more intimately involved in preventing crime and the causes of crime,” he disclosed stating how he wants to personally encourage Civil Society Organizations to expand their scope of work to capture those dynamics in their daily work with communities.

He stated how he has also ordered urgent reforms within the correctional system to provide for safe and secure custody in line with international best practices while developing a reintegration component focused on skills training and entrepreneurship.

The President said he is aware that the courts are closed because of COVID-19 saying that given the prevailing circumstances, he will appeal to the Chief Justice to consider appropriate measures to adjudicate the cases that emerge from the widespread insecurity.

The First Gentleman said equally given the destruction to the Pademba Road Correctional Centre and the burning down of Police Stations in parts of the country in addition to over- crowding in the Correctional Centres and police cells, there is a need to think about decentralizing court hearings.

He reaffirmed that any act of violence will be dealt with within the broad spectrum of the law pointing out that citizens have an obligation to obey law and order.

The President firmly stated that those who think that by fomenting trouble and inciting violence in the country, they can derail and distract the Government from fighting corruption, attracting investors, and meeting its promise to deliver development of this nation, must know now that they will lose the fight.

The President ended up by stating that his Government will hit hard and it will continue to hit even harder until the fight is won stating that it is a fight for the unity, stability, development, and the future of the only place we call home. “It is a fight that we must fight and it is a fight that we must win,” the President concluded.

In analysing the speech, the Managing Editor of this medium, Amin Kef Sesay aka Ranger stated that it is a ground breaking address to the nation that calls for decisive actions to deal with the spate of violence.

He said the novelty in the address lies in three fronts. First, the President cited his personal efforts to build and promote inclusive dialogue to deliver development to the people of this country including engaging the leadership of the APC.

Secondly, that he gave clear orders to the security sector to deal with all acts of violence decisively and within the broader spectrum of the law while at the same time calling on community leaders and Civil Society Organizations to expand their engagement with fragile communities.

Finally, he said the President used the term terrorism to define the actions of the drivers of violence in the country ,which according to him is a new approach that raises fundamental questions as to how this brand of violence is viewed and likely to be treated by the State.

He furthered that such indicates that Sierra Leone has joined the likes of Mali, Niger, Burkina-Faso, Cote D’Ivoire and Nigeria to define politically inspired violence as acts of terrorism against the State.

Such, he said, implies that Sierra Leone will now draw on both national and international legal instruments to respond to any act of violence against the State.

“This will no doubt open new doors to file extradition charges against persons living outside of the country that are believed to inciting violence in Sierra Leone,” Ranger opined adding that from all indications, it is now clearly evident that a new chapter in President Bio’s determined efforts to move this country forward has opened.

He, however, said it is not clear at this stage how citizens will react to this new approach but underscored that what is clear however is that majority of Sierra Leoneans, including Civil Society Organizations, are behind the Commander in Chief to deliver peace and development in Sierra Leone.

1...1,0981,0991,100...1,360Page 1,099 of 1,360