Peace Commission Executive Secretary Clarifies Roles of Tripartite Committee

June 7, 2024

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By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

At the weekly Government Press Conference held on the 4th June, 2024 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations Conference Room on Tower Hill, the Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), Hawa Samai, maintained that as an institution operating within the legal boundaries set by the High Court and adhering to the Constitution of Sierra Leone it facilitated the signing of a comprehensive unity agreement by all political parties involved. She said the agreement is not only inclusive but also underscores the importance of the resolutions contained within it.

According to her, one of the key components of the agreement was the establishment of a Tripartite Committee tasked with reviewing the electoral system and management body. She said the Committee includes representatives from the All People’s Congress (APC), Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLP), and the United Nations Resident Coordinator (UNRC) and its mandate is to examine electoral systems, structures and processes to ensure that future elections in Sierra Leone are free, fair and credible.

The Executive Secretary further stated that the Tripartite Committee is expected to consult with a wide range of stakeholders, including traditional leaders, civil society organizations and the media adding that those consultations aim to gather diverse recommendations to improve the electoral framework, enhancing the credibility and transparency of future elections in the country.

Hawa Samai emphasized the importance of the collaborative approach, noting that the involvement of multiple stakeholders is crucial for the enhancement of electoral credibility in Sierra Leone.

She also outlined the Commission’s inclusive and impartial approach in mediating political disputes in Sierra Leone.

The Peace Commission Executive Secretary detailed the mediation framework employed by the ICPNC, emphasizing its commitment in involving stakeholders from both the Government and opposition parties. This approach, she said, ensures that all parties are treated equally and fairly, fostering an environment conducive to good governance and sustained peace. She said before they commenced the mediation, the Commission secures consent from all involved parties, reflecting its dedication to an inclusive process.

According to her, the Commission’s efforts are bolstered by consultations with representatives chosen by the political parties themselves, as well as international partners such as the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the Commonwealth. These consultations, she maintained , were conducted upon the recommendation and with the permission of the President, highlighting the high level of collaboration and support for the ICPNC’s initiatives.

She concluded that as Sierra Leone continues to navigate its political landscape, and as it waits for Tripartite Committes’s conclusion, the efforts of the ICPNC and its inclusive mediation framework represent a significant step towards fostering unity and stability in the country.

Africell Sponsors 2024 Sierra Leone Innovates Tech Summit

June 5, 2024

Africell Sierra Leone, one of the leading telecommunications company, is set to play a pivotal role in advancing technological innovation in Sierra Leone as the primary sponsor of the 2024 Sierra Leone Innovates Tech Summit. Organized by the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, the summit is scheduled from June 11 to 13, 2024, at the Freetown International Conference Center, Bintumani.

Shadi Gerjawi, Managing Director of Africell Sierra Leone, highlighted the importance of providing a platform for young tech enthusiasts to flourish. “At Africell, we firmly believe that supporting education, technology, and innovation is vital for the growth and development of our country,” Gerjawi stated.

Gerjawi expressed his pride in Africell’s sponsorship, underscoring the company’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for young innovators. “We are dedicated to establishing a state-of-the-art Tech and Innovation Center, where young minds can explore and realize their potential,” he added.

Africell’s participation in the summit will feature an engaging booth with tech-driven activities and experiences. Gerjawi warmly invited all attendees to visit the Africell booth and immerse themselves in the world of technology and innovation.

Minister of Communications, Technology, and Innovation, Salima Monorma Bah, emphasized the summit’s goal of bringing together innovators, stakeholders, and global tech giants to advance innovation in Sierra Leone and showcase local talent. “The government is committed to fostering a culture of innovation. Our agenda is to create a dynamic platform for young people to showcase their talents, develop solutions, and bring their creative ideas to fruition,” Minister Bah stated.

Minister Bah highlighted the need to support innovation across various sectors, including agriculture, mining, and transportation. “To transition from ideas to market-ready products, our innovators need access to resources such as finance, infrastructure, and regulatory support,” she noted.

The Tech and Innovation Summit aims to address these challenges by connecting innovators, industry leaders, and venture capitalists. “The summit is not just a showcase event. It is a platform for meaningful conversations about integrating innovative solutions into our national plans. We will discuss access to finance, regulatory reforms, and creating a conducive environment for innovation,” Minister Bah concluded.

New Sankalps from the Sadhana in Kanniyakumari

June 5, 2024

My fellow Indians,

The biggest festival of democracy, the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, are concluding today in our nation, the Mother of Democracy. After a three-day spiritual journey in Kanniyakumari, I have just boarded the plane for Delhi. Through the day, Kashi and numerous other seats have been in the midst of voting.

My mind is filled with so many experiences and emotions… I feel a boundless flow of energy within myself. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are the first in the Amrit Kaal. I began my campaign a few months ago from Meerut, the land of the First War of Independence of 1857. Since then, I have traversed across the length and breadth of our great nation. The final rally of these elections took me to Hoshiarpur in Punjab, the land of the great Gurus and a land associated with Sant Ravidas Ji. After that, I came to Kanniyakumari, at the feet of Maa Bharti.

It is natural that the fervour of the elections was echoing in my heart and mind. The multitude of faces seen in rallies and road shows came in front of my eyes. The blessings from our Nari Shakti…the trust, the affection, all of this was a very humbling experience. My eyes were getting moist… I entered into a ‘sadhana’ (meditative state). And then, the heated political debates, the attacks and counter-attacks, the voices and words of accusations which are so characteristic of an election…they all vanished into a void. A sense of detachment came to grow within me…my mind became completely detached from the external world.

Meditation becomes challenging amidst such huge responsibilities, but the land of Kanniyakumari and the inspiration of Swami Vivekananda made it effortless. As a candidate myself, I left my campaign in the hands of my beloved people of Kashi and came here.

I am also grateful to God for instilling me with these values from birth which I have cherished and tried to live up to. I was also thinking about what Swami Vivekananda must have experienced during his meditation at this very place in Kanniyakumari! A part of my meditation was spent in a similar stream of thoughts.

Amidst this detachment, amidst the peace and silence, my mind was constantly thinking about the bright future of Bharat, the goals of Bharat. The rising sun at Kanniyakumari gave new heights to my thoughts, the vastness of the ocean expanded my ideas, and the expanse of the horizon continuously made me realize the unity, the Oneness, embedded in the depths of the universe. It seemed as if the observations and experiences undertaken in the lap of the Himalayas decades ago were being revived.

Friends,

Kanniyakumari has always been very close to my heart. The Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanniyakumari was built under the leadership of Shri Eknath Ranade ji. I had the opportunity to travel extensively with Eknath ji. During the construction of this Memorial, I had the opportunity to spend some time in Kanniyakumari as well.

From Kashmir to Kanniyakumari… this is a common identity that is deeply ingrained in the heart of every citizen of the country. This is the ‘Shakti Peeth’ (seat of Shakti) where Maa Shakti incarnated as Kanya Kumari. At this Southern tip, Maa Shakti performed penance and waited for Bhagwan Shiva, who was residing in the Himalayas at the northernmost parts of Bharat.

Kanniyakumari is the land of confluences. The sacred rivers of our country flow into different seas, and here, those very seas converge. And here, we witness another great confluence—the ideological confluence of Bharat! Here, we find the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a grand statue of Saint Thiruvalluvar, Gandhi Mandapam, and Kamarajar Mani Mandapam. These streams of thought from these stalwarts converge here to form a confluence of national thought. This gives rise to great inspirations for nation-building. This land of Kanniyakumari gives an indelible message of unity, especially to any person who doubts Bharat’s nationhood and the sense of unity.

The grand statue of Saint Thiruvalluvar in Kanniyakumari seems to be looking at the expanse of Maa Bharati from the sea. His work Thirukkural is one of the crown jewels of the beautiful Tamil language. It covers every aspect of life, inspiring us to give our best for ourselves and for the nation. It was my great fortune to pay my respects to such a great figure.

Friends,

Swami Vivekananda once said, ‘Every nation has a message to deliver, a mission to fulfil, a destiny to reach.’

For thousands of years, Bharat has been moving forward with this sense of meaningful purpose. Bharat has been a cradle of ideas for thousands of years. We have never considered what we have acquired as our personal wealth or measured it purely by economic or material parameters. Therefore, ‘Idam-na-mama’ (this is not mine) has become an inherent and natural part of the character of Bharat.

Bharat’s welfare benefits our planet’s journey to progress as well. Take the freedom movement as an example. Bharat gained independence on August 15, 1947. At that time, many countries around the world were under colonial rule. Bharat’s independence journey inspired and empowered many of those countries to achieve their own freedom. That same spirit was seen decades later when the world came face to face with the once in a century COVID-19 pandemic. When concerns were raised about the poor and developing countries, Bharat’s successful efforts provided courage and assistance to many nations.

Today, Bharat’s governance model has become an example for many countries around the world. Empowering 25 crore people to rise above poverty in just 10 years is unprecedented. Innovative practices such as Pro-People Good Governance, aspirational districts, and aspirational blocks are being discussed globally today. Our efforts, from empowering the poor to last-mile delivery, have inspired the world by prioritizing individuals standing at the last rung of society. Bharat’s Digital India campaign is now an example for the entire world, showing how we can use technology to empower the poor, bring transparency, and ensure their rights. Inexpensive data in Bharat is becoming a means of social equality by ensuring the reach of information and services to the poor. The whole world is witnessing and studying the democratization of technology, and major global institutions are advising many countries to adopt elements from our model.

Today, Bharat’s progress and rise are not just a significant opportunity for Bharat alone, but also a historic opportunity for all our partner countries around the world. Since the success of the G-20, the world has been increasingly envisioning a bigger role for Bharat. Today, Bharat is being acknowledged as a strong and important voice of the Global South. The African Union has become a part of the G-20 group at the initiative of Bharat. This is going to be a crucial turning point for the future of African countries.

Friends,

The development trajectory of Bharat fills us with pride and glory, but at the same time, it also reminds the 140 crore citizens of their responsibilities. Now, without wasting a single moment, we must step forward towards greater duties and larger goals. We need to dream new dreams, convert them into reality and begin living those dreams.

We must see Bharat’s development in a global context, and for this, it is essential that we understand Bharat’s internal capabilities. We must acknowledge Bharat’s strengths, nurture them, and utilize them for the benefit of the world. In today’s global scenario, Bharat’s strength as a youthful nation is an opportunity from which we must not look back.

The world of the 21st century is looking towards Bharat with many hopes. And we will need to make several changes to move forward in the global scenario. We also need to change our traditional thinking regarding reform. Bharat cannot limit reform to just economic reforms. We must move forward in every aspect of life towards the direction of reform. Our reforms should also align with the aspirations of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (developed India) by 2047.

We must also understand that reform can never be a unidimensional process for any country. Therefore, I have laid out the vision of reform, perform, and transform for the country. The responsibility of reform lies with leadership. Based on that, our bureaucracy performs, and when the people join in with the spirit of Jan Bhagidari, we witness a transformation taking place.

We must make excellence the fundamental principle to make our country a ‘Viksit Bharat’. We need to work quickly in all four directions: Speed, Scale, Scope, and Standards. Alongside manufacturing, we must also focus on quality and adhere to the mantra of ‘zero defect-zero effect’.

Friends,

We should take pride in every moment that God has blessed us with birth in the land of Bharat. God has chosen us to serve Bharat and fulfil our role in our country’s journey towards excellence.

We must redefine our heritage in a modern way while embracing ancient values in a modern context.

As a nation, we also need to reassess outdated thinking and beliefs. We need to free our society from the pressure of professional pessimists. We must remember that freedom from negativity is the first step towards achieving success. Success blossoms in the lap of positivity.

My faith, devotion, and belief in the infinite and eternal power of Bharat are growing day by day. Over the past 10 years, I have seen this capability of Bharat grow even more and have experienced it firsthand.

Just as we utilized the fourth and fifth decades of the 20th century to impart a new momentum to the freedom movement, we must lay the foundation for a ‘Viksit Bharat’ in these 25 years of the 21st century. The freedom struggle was a time that called for great sacrifices. The present times call for great and sustained contributions from everyone.

Swami Vivekananda had said in 1897 that we must dedicate the next 50 years solely for the nation. Exactly 50 years after this call, Bharat gained independence in 1947.

Today, we have the same golden opportunity. Let’s dedicate the next 25 years solely for the nation. Our efforts will create a strong foundation for the coming generations and the coming centuries, taking Bharat to new heights. Looking at the energy and enthusiasm of the country, I can say that the goal is not far away now. Let us take swift steps…let us come together and create a Viksit Bharat.

– These thoughts were penned by PM Modi on 1st June between 4:15 PM and 7 PM during his return flight from Kanniyakumari to Delhi.

M.I.C Joins Lofty’s Entertainment as First Signed Artist

June 5, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a significant milestone for the Sierra Leonean music industry, M.I.C. has officially signed with Lofty’s Entertainment, becoming the first artist under the label. The landmark deal, rumored to involve a substantial yet undisclosed sum, signifies a major advancement for both M.I.C. and Lofty’s Entertainment.

The agreement includes several attractive perks, highlighting the label’s commitment to M.I.C.’s success and comfort. These benefits feature a fully furnished apartment, allowing M.I.C. to concentrate on his music without distractions. Furthermore, the deal grants him the liberty to choose any country where he feels most inspired to create his music, reflecting Lofty’s Entertainment’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for their artists. Additionally, a car is provided, ensuring M.I.C. has the necessary mobility to navigate his busy schedule.

M.I.C., renowned for his unique blend of traditional Sierra Leonean sounds with modern musical elements, has garnered a substantial following both locally and internationally. His lyrical prowess and distinctive style have established him as a leading figure in the music scene, and this new partnership is set to elevate his career to new heights.

Lofty’s Entertainment, a rising star in the music industry, is focused on nurturing and elevating local talent. Their partnership with M.I.C. underscores their mission to provide extensive support and resources, aiming to amplify his reach and impact. The label’s backing is expected to facilitate the creation of high-quality music that resonates globally.

This collaboration is anticipated to open new opportunities for M.I.C., enabling him to explore innovative projects and gain greater international exposure. Fans and industry stakeholders are eagerly looking forward to the outcomes of the partnership, which promises to set new standards and infuse fresh energy into Sierra Leonean music.

Sustainable Communities Network Commences Computer Literacy Training for 28 Youths in Cole Farm Community

June 5, 2024

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By Ibrahim Bakarr Kamara

In pursuit of its mission to foster self-reliance among young individuals through technological proficiency, Sustainable Communities Network (SCN) has commenced a three-month computer literacy training programme for twenty-eight youths in the Cole Farm Community, in the Western Area of Freetown, at no cost. The course comprises Digital Literacy programs, Introduction to ICT, Cyber Security Awareness and more.

Peter Joseph Menjor, the Director of Development at SCN, stated that the initiative aims to complement the Government’s efforts in human capital development and empower young people in the Cole Farm Community and its environs. He mentioned that the initiative aligns with one of the thematic areas of the organization and the Digital Platform Centre (DPC) at their headquarters revealing how it is a self-funded project by members of the organization to ensure that young people are well-equipped and ready for future employment.

He assured the Cole Farm Community members present at the event of SCN’s commitment to empowering young people and communities in the country. He added that the DPC is well-equipped with full Internet access, Desktops, and well-grounded committed tutors for effective service delivery.
“The three-month course is a pilot project for the entire DPC project, and each beneficiary will receive a certificate of completion with the National Council for Technical Vocational and Other Awards (NCTVA) and SCN stamps for future employment,” Menjor said.

“Prior to the kick-start of the Digital Platform Centre (DPC), SCN had embarked on cleaning exercises, a football gala, and recently partnered with Youth in Actions Against Drugs in combating drug addiction among young people in Sierra Leone,” Ibrahim Sillah, the Chairman of Cole Farm Youth Organization stated.

He noted that SCN’s initiative demonstrate compassion for humanity and provide a solution to stem youth unemployment in the Cole Farm Community and the country at large. He encouraged the trainees to take their courses seriously.

Speaking on behalf of her fellow trainees, Theresa Taylor, expressed her profound appreciation to Sustainable Communities Network (SCN) for their commendable gesture. She described the course as a step towards the twenty-first century and will help broaden their knowledge in technology, enhancing learning opportunities in the future.

Taylor called on the Government and other organizations to support SCN’s efforts in promoting computer literacy in the country.

Tobacco Claims 3,330 Lives Annually in Sierra Leone: Health Officials Urge Stronger Control Measures

June 5, 2024

By Ibrahim Sorie Koroma

In a sobering address at the World No Tobacco Day Commemoration ceremony on May 31st, Dr. Santigie Sesay, Director at the Directorate of Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health in the Ministry of Health, revealed that tobacco use is responsible for 3,330 deaths each year in Sierra Leone. Speaking at the Freetown City Council, Dr. Sesay highlighted that while tobacco may not be the sole cause of these deaths, it significantly contributes as a risk factor.

Dr. Sesay emphasized that 900 of these deaths are due to exposure to second-hand smoke, which is preventable. He expressed concern over the high number of tobacco users, stating that 955,000 adults and 4,000 children aged 10-14 consume tobacco products annually. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for comprehensive action from all stakeholders.

Linking tobacco consumption to various health risks, Dr. Sesay pointed out that between 2016 and 2018, Sierra Leone recorded 4,125 new cancer cases, resulting in 3,002 deaths. He attributed tobacco use in various forms—smoking, chewing, sniffing, and shisha use—as a significant factor in heart attacks, sudden cardiac deaths, respiratory infections, and hypertension.

Dr. Sesay also highlighted the severe impact of tobacco toxins on pregnant women, which can lead to complications such as bleeding, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth, cervical cancer, early menopause, menstrual disorders, and erectile dysfunction in men.

Addressing the dangers of second-hand smoke, Dr. Sesay stressed that it poses greater health risks to non-smokers, who he termed “silent consumers.” He called for robust action to implement the Nicotine and Tobacco Bill, noting that second-hand smoke affects many who do not actively smoke.

He outlined the potential benefits of fully implementing tobacco control policies, including taxation, smoke-free policies, advertising restrictions and public health campaigns. These measures, part of the Narcotic and Tobacco Bill and the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), could prevent 19,000 deaths and save 1.3 trillion Leones in economic losses over 15 years.

Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director, lauded Sierra Leone’s progress in the fight against tobacco use, particularly the enactment of the Narcotic and Tobacco Bill by the Parliament. She urged accelerated implementation of the WHO FCTC, especially stringent measures against marketing new and emerging tobacco and narcotic products aimed at youths, including shisha, e-cigarettes and narcotic pouches, often promoted through social media.

The ceremony underscored the critical need for continued efforts and collaboration to combat the tobacco epidemic in Sierra Leone, aiming to safeguard public health and reduce the burden of tobacco-related diseases.

SLAJ President Delivers Lecture on the Media at Limkokwing University

June 5, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), took the stage as a guest lecturer at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology in Freetown on May 30, 2024. The esteemed journalist, with over two decades of experience, addressed students at the Faculty of Communication, Media, and Broadcasting, offering insights to guide them towards a successful career in journalism.

During the engaging session, Nasralla emphasized the significance of specialization and teamwork in the field, highlighting the values of professionalism, ethics, integrity, and commitment essential for aspiring journalists. He also discussed the crucial role of SLAJ in advocating for press freedom and ensuring journalist safety in Sierra Leone.

Following the lecture, Nasralla and SLAJ Vice President Sahr James Bangah held discussions with university officials on potential collaborations and specialized training initiatives. Both parties expressed mutual interest in establishing a partnership, with plans to formalize the arrangement through a Memorandum of Understanding in the near future.

Police Present in Court Video of Lebanese National Allegedly With Pistol

June 5, 2024

By Esther Wright

At the Pademba Road Court No. 2, Police Inspector, Mohamed Jusu, presented a cyber analyst report before Magistrate Bangura regarding the alleged possession of a firearm by a Lebanese national, Ali Jaffal.

Ali Jaffal, making his fifth court appearance, faces six charges including possession of arms without a license, possession of ammunition without a license and other related offenses under Sierra Leonean law. According to the indictment, Ali Jaffal was found with a Makarov pistol and six 9mm rounds at the Young Sports Club facility on Wilkinson Road, Freetown, on April 6, 2024.

State Prosecutor, Yusif Isaac Sesay Esq. led the examination of the Prosecution’s fifth witness, Inspector Mohamed Jusu. Attached to the Cyber Lab Unit at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters on Pademba Road, Inspector Mohamed Jusu is responsible for analyzing electronic devices and reporting his findings. He testified that on April 10, 2024, he received a flash drive from Inspector F.J. Moosa containing a video relevant to the case.

He explained that he used specialized software, Amped 5, to verify the video’s authenticity and confirmed it had not been tampered with. The video, shown in court, depicted Ali Jaffal wearing a white shirt and black shorts, holding a pistol. This footage, along with Mohamed Jusu’s observations and conclusions, was compiled into a report co-signed by Sergeant Foday Lebbie on April 12, 2024. The report and the flash drive were submitted as evidence, marked exhibits L1-4 and M, respectively.

Mohamed Jusu stated that snapshots of Ali Jaffal taken at the Police Station were compared with the video footage to confirm the identity of the individual shown in the video. His analysis concluded that Ali Jaffal was indeed the person in the footage.

Defense Counsel, Tuma Jabbie, requested a short adjournment to cross-examine the witness. Magistrate Bangura granted the request and adjourned the case to June 14, 2024, with Ali Jaffal’s bail continuing.

Obtain Your Biometric ID Cards to Build a Safer & More Inclusive Society

June 5, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a landmark move towards modernization and efficiency, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) of Sierra Leone is issuing of Biometric Identification Cards equipped with unique National Identification Numbers (NINs) for citizens. Non-Citizens are also encouraged to secure the ID Cards.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in enhancing access to essential services, bolstering personal security and combating identity fraud in the country. As the issuance deadline approaches, it is imperative for all individuals to obtain their Biometric ID Cards to reap the multitude of benefits they offer.

Access to essential services such as healthcare, education and social welfare programs is a fundamental right for all individuals. However, in Sierra Leone, the lack of a reliable identification system has often been a barrier to accessing these services, particularly for marginalized populations. The introduction of Biometric ID Cards with NINs aims to address this issue by providing a secure and verifiable means of identification.

With their Biometric ID Cards and unique NINs, individuals can easily prove their identity when accessing Government services, opening bank accounts, registering for elections, and applying for employment opportunities. This streamlined process not only saves time and reduces bureaucracy but also ensures that essential services are delivered more efficiently to those who need them most.

In an increasingly digital world, safeguarding personal information and preventing identity theft are paramount concerns. Traditional forms of identification, such as paper-based documents, are susceptible to forgery and tampering, leaving individuals vulnerable to fraud and exploitation. Biometric ID Cards, on the other hand, utilize advanced technology such as fingerprints and facial recognition to verify a person’s identity with a high level of accuracy.

By linking individuals to their unique biometric data, Biometric ID Cards offer enhanced security features that make it significantly more difficult for identity thieves to impersonate others or access sensitive information. This added layer of protection not only enhances personal security but also instills confidence in citizens and non-citizens alike, knowing that their identities are securely stored and protected by the NCRA.

Identity fraud poses a significant threat to individuals, businesses, and Government institutions alike. From fraudulent financial transactions to impersonation for criminal activities, the consequences of identity fraud can be devastating. Biometric ID Cards, with their advanced security features and unique NINs, serve as a powerful deterrent against identity fraud by ensuring that each individual’s identity is verified beyond doubt.

As the deadline for obtaining Biometric ID Cards approaches, it is crucial for all individuals in Sierra Leone to prioritize obtaining their cards to enjoy the myriad benefits they offer. Whether citizens or non-citizens, young or old, everyone stands to benefit from the enhanced access to essential services, improved personal security and reduced risk of identity fraud that Biometric ID Cards provide.

In conclusion, the ongoing issuance of Biometric Identification Cards by the National Civil Registration Authority represents a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey towards modernization and efficiency. By providing citizens and non-citizens with secure and verifiable means of identification, Biometric ID Cards unlock access to essential services, enhance personal security, and prevent identity fraud. It is incumbent upon all individuals to obtain their Biometric ID Cards and contribute to building a safer, more inclusive society for generations to come.

To facilitate the application process, the NCRA has established specific offices and designated centers across Sierra Leone, strategically located for easy accessibility.

Furthermore, in a bid to enhance accessibility and efficiency, the NCRA has introduced specialized corporate services tailored for organizations and institutions.

The centres are:

1.NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown.
2. NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown.
3. NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown.
4. NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Round About).
5. NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown High Way (Opposite the Police Station).
6. NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.

NCRA is urging Sierra Leoneans to prioritize obtaining their Biometric ID Cards, citing its role in personal security, national development, and access to essential services. The institution emphasizes the statutory obligation and the unique National Identification Number (NIN) as pivotal security elements, urging citizens to fulfill their civil responsibility by acquiring the cards.

For detailed information on these services, interested parties can reach out to the following contact numbers: +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.

Magistrate Hadiru Daboh Responds to Accusations in Kabala Market Dispute

June 5, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

Magistrate Hadiru Daboh, the Resident Magistrate for Koinadugu and Falaba Districts, has issued a statement clarifying recent allegations aimed at his court’s handling of a contentious case involving market traders in Kabala.

The case, heard in the Magistrate Court at Kabala, involves a private criminal summons filed by Mohamed Foday Kamara against six market traders: Edward Koroma, Chemor Jalloh, Isata Conteh, Katie Conteh, Mohamed Conteh, and Amie, all from Market Squire, Kabala town. Mohamed Foday Kamara accused the defendants of trespassing by constructing stalls on staircases leading to his residence.

Magistrate Daboh described the allegations against him as “vexatious, malicious and a calculated ploy to undermine the due process” of his court. He outlined the following key points:

1. Judgment Delivered: The judgment was issued after thorough hearings from both parties and two locus visits, one of which turned chaotic despite the presence of police officers and court officials.

2.The Defense Counsel is trying to put him in collision with the former Magistrate as such is evident in the fact that the former has called upon the Master and Registrar to reinstate the former Magistrate. That shows he has his own games that he had been playing. However, nonetheless the fact remains that Magistrate Daboh is in a good relationship with the former Magistrate.

Receipt Controversy: Daboh refuted claims of accepting a locus fee from Isata Conteh, stating he had no personal interaction with her outside of court proceedings and that the receipt in question was not authored by him.
Compliance with Court Orders: The defendants were given two weeks to vacate Kamara’s property, a deadline which has since passed.
Political Motivations: Daboh suggested that the demand for the return of Magistrate Fonnah to Kabala indicates political motivations behind the allegations.
Attempts to Influence Judgment: The defendants’ lawyer allegedly made several attempts to influence Daboh’s decision, leading to the current complaints as a form of retaliation.
Following a complaint to the Master, it was resolved that the defendants would file their appeal. On May 31, 2024, in an unexpected turn, the lawyer who made the allegations visited Magistrate Daboh’s house on May 31, 2024, to apologize for the spiteful claims.

The defendants are charged with trespass, contrary to Section 15(1)(c) of the Public Order Act No. 46 of 1965. The alleged trespassing occurred between December 1, 2023, and March 10, 2024, despite warnings to vacate the premises at No. 1 Market Square, Kabala town.

The complainant, Mohamed Foday Kamara, maintains his position, while the court awaits further developments as the defendants proceed with their appeal.

Magistrate Daboh’s statement aims to clarify the judicial process and counter what he describes as baseless attacks on his integrity and the court’s proceedings.