Aviation DG Highlights Security & Efficiency at FAL.2024 Global Summit in Saudi Arabia

May 24, 2024

Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA).jpg

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, delivered a crucial address at the Facilitation 2024 (FAL.2024) Global Summit, held from May 20-22, 2024, at the King Abdul Aziz International Conference Centre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The summit, organized under the auspices of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), focused on improving global aviation security and enhancing the passenger experience.

In her closing panel address on “Facilitating the Air Traveller Journey” on May 22, Musayeroh Barrie emphasized the importance of proactive measures to counter evolving threats to civil aviation. She detailed various security challenges, including insider threats, cyber-attacks, drone-related risks, and armed assaults on airport landside areas. Despite Sierra Leone’s modest aviation sector, Barrie stressed that these issues are globally relevant.

“As the traveling population continues to increase, Governments, airlines, and airports must adapt their processes to maintain safety and security while enabling a smooth facilitation process,” Musayeroh Barrie said. She underscored the goal of streamlining processes, reducing congestion at departure control points and enhancing passenger and crew experiences worldwide while maintaining high security standards.

The Director General proposed several strategies to achieve those goals:

– Airport Design: Terminal buildings should facilitate passenger processing within 60 minutes outbound and 40 minutes inbound, including provisions for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRMs).

– Training and Awareness: Personnel from key facilitation agencies should be well-versed in ICAO Annexes 9 and 17, emphasizing the link between security and facilitation. Ongoing training and awareness sessions on emerging security issues are crucial.

– Agency Roles: Musayeroh Barrie outlined the roles of various agencies involved in airport operations, including airport operators, immigration, customs, security, port health, and airlines. Each has specific responsibilities to ensure smooth and secure passenger processing.

She highlighted Sierra Leone’s progress through the ICAO assistance mission in 2021, which provided virtual training for stakeholders on implementing Annex 9. She also mentioned the development of an Airport Facilitation Program to streamline passenger and baggage processing.

Additionally, the Civil Aviation Director General discussed the formation of a National Air Transport Facilitation Committee to address facilitation and security issues collaboratively. According to her, Sierra Leone has also approved a national health emergency response plan, incorporating lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure coordinated responses to health emergencies through simulation exercises.

With support from the UNOCT program and national authorities, Sierra Leone has developed and approved Advance Passenger Information (API) regulations, managed by the Central Intelligence Security Agency. The country is also preparing to join the API & Public Key Directory (PKD) and train airport staff on pandemic and disruptive passenger behavior procedures.

To enhance passenger experience, customs has installed a cargo scanner for inbound passengers, an escalator for PRMs, and designated routes for staff, VIPs, and cabin crew to reduce congestion at screening points.

Musayeroh Barrie concluded by highlighting the importance of written programs at both airport and national levels to define roles and responsibilities clearly, ensuring all players in the passenger journey are aligned in addressing facilitation challenges.

The FAL.2024 summit provided a platform for aviation leaders to share insights and strategies, reinforcing the global commitment to secure and efficient air travel.

President Bio Urges Cabinet Recalibration at Ministerial Retreat

May 24, 2024

By Amin Kef Sesay

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio delivered a powerful address at the opening of a two-day Ministerial Retreat in Galliness Conference Hall, Bo City, urging his cabinet to recalibrate their actions to better serve the national agenda. The retreat, which began on May 21, 2024, gathered Ministers, Deputies, Permanent Secretaries and Senior Civil Servants to refocus their efforts on the Government’s promises to the people of Sierra Leone.

Describing the retreat as timely, President Bio emphasized the theme: “Deepening Coordination, Collaboration for Accelerated Service Delivery.” He stressed the importance of speaking hard truths and making necessary adjustments to advance the national agenda within the limited timeframe available.

President Bio highlighted the significant responsibility shouldered by his Government officials, reminding them of their commitment to serve the nation. He reflected on the achievements of his first term, including advancements in women’s participation in politics and the economy, improvements in foundational education for children and the enhancement of democratic spaces. However, he acknowledged that those efforts were not enough.

“I put this team together because I cannot do this work alone,” President Bio stated. He called on his team to step up, noting the high expectations of the Sierra Leonean people amidst economic and social challenges. He observed a lack of dynamism in addressing complex problems and urged for a renewed commitment to drive change.

Addressing the Vice President, Chief Minister, and assembled Ministers, President Bio emphasized the need for candid discussions about their responsibility to deliver on the ‘Big Five Game Changers.’ He declared that the time for excuses and problem narration had ended, urging officials to focus on solutions.

President Bio reminded his team of the promises made to the people of Sierra Leone, asserting, “Salone for betteh, na only we go do wam.” He called for unwavering commitment and determination to lead effectively in challenging contexts.

The President also stressed the importance of team cohesion, tolerance, respect, mutuality trust, and equality. He addressed reports of hostile relationships between some Ministers and their Deputies, insisting that effective teamwork is crucial for fulfilling ministerial mandates.

He concluded by urging Ministers to delegate tasks, provide direction and motivation, reduce bureaucratic red tape and set ambitious yet achievable targets for timely delivery. “No one can do this job alone,” President Bio stated, emphasizing the need for a culture of team planning and collaboration.

The Ministerial Retreat aims to foster a more effective and coordinated Government approach to meet the high expectations of the Sierra Leonean people.

Afrimoney Unveils Artical Foyoh as the Eastern King

May 24, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a lively ceremony held at the Hotel 5/10 conference hall, Afrimoney officially introduced Emmanuel Rogers, popularly known as Artical Foyoh, as their new Brand Ambassador. Artical Foyoh, who also serves as the President of the Eastern Artist Union, has now assumed the prestigious title of Afrimoney Eastern King. This appointment is a significant milestone for both Afrimoney and the local entertainment industry.

Jesse Amara, President of the Sierra Leone DJs Union, praised the announcement as a positive development. “This is welcoming news for the entertainment industry. It highlights the impact our artists are making in the country,” he remarked. Jesse Amara encouraged entertainers to stay dedicated to their craft, noting that perseverance can lead to such esteemed recognitions.

Hajaratu Sudi Esq, Team Lead of Afrimoney Financial Services, called on the entertainment community to support Artical Foyoh in his new role. “Stay engaged with Africell and Afrimoney,” she urged, hinting at future rewards and benefits for loyal customers.

Martison Obeng Agyei, Managing Director of Afrimoney, emphasized the company’s commitment to recognizing and supporting local talent. “Afrimoney is dedicated to reaching every corner of Sierra Leone, celebrating and promoting the good work of individuals,” he said. Agyei highlighted that Afrimoney’s unique service allows customers to send money for free, which can be advantageous for various personal and business projects.

In his acceptance speech, Artical Foyoh expressed gratitude to his family, One Vision Entertainment, friends, and fans for their unwavering support. “I am elated and honored by this recognition. Afrimoney has placed great trust in me, and I am committed to delivering with effectiveness and efficiency,” he stated. Artical Foyoh plans to build a dedicated team, creating employment opportunities for the Eastern community.

The unveiling ceremony concluded with an electrifying performance by Artical Foyoh, who debuted his new song “Sonkor Sonkor,” capturing the essence of Sierra Leonean culture.

This collaboration between Afrimoney and Artical Foyoh marks a promising step forward for the integration of financial services and the entertainment industry in Sierra Leone.

Residents Urged to Obtain Biometric ID Cards for Improved Security and Services

May 24, 2024

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By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant move towards modernizing governance and enhancing efficiency, Sierra Leone’s National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) is calling on all citizens and non-citizens to obtain Biometric Identification Cards. These cards, featuring a unique National Identification Number (NIN), are designed to enhance security and inclusivity for all residents.

The NCRA emphasizes the importance of these Biometric ID Cards for personal security, national development, and access to essential services. With the deadline for issuance approaching, the NCRA is urging prompt action from all Sierra Leoneans to ensure they benefit from improved service delivery in healthcare, education, and social welfare programs.

Historically, the lack of a robust identification system in Sierra Leone has created barriers, particularly for marginalized communities. The new Biometric ID Cards aim to eliminate these barriers by offering a secure and reliable means of identification. This advancement will streamline processes across various sectors, including government services, banking, electoral registration, and employment, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.

In an era of heightened digital security concerns, protecting personal information is paramount. The Biometric ID Cards employ advanced technologies such as fingerprints and facial recognition to authenticate identities with high accuracy, significantly reducing the risk of fraud and exploitation. These cards act as a strong defense against identity theft, ensuring the integrity of personal information and preventing fraudulent activities.

To facilitate the application process, NCRA has established accessible centers across the country. These centers are designed to ensure widespread adoption of this transformative system. The following centers are available for citizens to obtain their Biometric ID Cards:

NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown.
NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown.
NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown.
NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Roundabout).
NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station).
NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarters in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.

Additionally, specialized corporate services have been introduced to cater to the diverse needs of organizations, reflecting NCRA’s commitment to accessibility and efficiency.

The NCRA stresses the statutory obligation for all residents to obtain their Biometric ID Cards, underscoring the significance of the unique NIN. This initiative marks a critical step towards a more secure, efficient, and inclusive Sierra Leone, ensuring that every resident has access to essential services and protection against identity fraud.

For detailed inquiries and assistance, individuals can contact the NCRA through the following channels:

Phone numbers: +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812 Email: idverification@ncra.gov

NP (SL) Emerges as Sole Fuel Provider Amidst Seeming Shortage

May 24, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

As Sierra Leone has started experiencing fuel shortage, NP- Sierra Leone (NP-SL) stands out as the only petroleum marketing company actively supplying fuel to the public. Long queues have reappeared at various Filling Stations, highlighting the scarcity of fuel and leaving citizens in a state of uncertainty.

NP-SL has been operating all its Filling Stations across the country, ensuring smooth sales and providing much-needed relief to frustrated motorists. This development has sparked questions among Sierra Leoneans about the absence of other major fuel companies in the market, with many wondering why these companies have not stepped up to address the pressing need for fuel.

Calls have been made to the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) and the Government to investigate the cause of the shortage and ensure measures are taken to alleviate the situation. The reliance on a single company for fuel supply has raised concerns about the stability and efficiency of the fuel distribution system in Sierra Leone.

Amid the crisis, NP-SL has proven its resilience and commitment to keeping the nation’s wheels turning. Renowned for its prowess in the petroleum industry, NP-SL has firmly established itself as the premier dealer in the country. The company’s outstanding performance in importing and distributing a diverse range of petroleum products, including petrol, diesel gas, and lubricants, notably Castrol oil, has earned it widespread recognition.

As a wholly indigenous enterprise, NP-SL consistently ensures the timely importation and widespread distribution of premium petroleum products to Filling Stations nationwide, guaranteeing easy accessibility for its valued esteemed customers.

Recently, NP-SL unveiled an innovative pilot phase of the Access and Energy Pass Card, a device that enhances access and efficiency in energy management systems while facilitating the seamless flow of petroleum products across the nation.

The Access and Energy Pass Card is a user-friendly Smart Card offering both online and offline usability, coupled with high-security features to safeguard customer information. It provides instant SMS notifications after every transaction, ensuring transparency and accountability. Customers can conveniently recharge their cards at designated stations or the Head Office, and even reverse transactions if needed. Additionally, stringent security measures are in place, including One-Time Passwords (OTP) for password changes in case of incorrect entries.

During the launch of the pilot phase it was highlighted that there are state-of-the-art security features integrated into the Access and Energy Pass Card with its seamless integration with customers’ mobile numbers, offering real-time transaction updates to empower users.

The new device also benefits for Station Owners, including streamlined financial operations with direct credits to their bank accounts for transactions made through the Access and Energy Pass Card. The new initiative, aptly named “FUBU” (For Us, By Us), stems from NP’s commitment to embracing a cashless future and addressing challenges identified through stakeholder consultations.

The Access and Energy Pass Card promises to usher in a new era of self-service convenience, eliminating the need for pump attendants and empowering customers to fuel their vehicles independently. With its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface, it aims to meet the diverse needs of customers and station managers alike.

As the fuel shortage continues to impact daily life in Sierra Leone, NP-SL’s role as the sole active fuel provider underscores the need for transparency and accountability in the management of fuel resources to prevent such crises from recurring in the future.

West African Journalists Visit QNET Head Office In Malaysia To Unravel The Truth About The Company

May 23, 2024

By James Kamara-Manneh

Five journalists from five West African countries namely, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal and Burkina Faso took a trip to the Head Office of QNET on 8^th May, 2024 to unravel the truth about the company.

Over the years, there has been a number of negative media publications about QNET and in some West Africa countries, the company has been vilified repeatedly. There are some people who would quickly dismiss QNET as a scam, a pyramid scheme or a human trafficking group. These perceptions have negatively affected the image and reputation of the company in Sierra Leone.

As part of the proactive measures the 26-year-old global direct selling company is implementing in trying to provide accurate information about its business model, products and identity, and to fight misinformation, QNET organized a special media junket for journalists across West Africa, to visit and experience QNET in Malaysia and independently assess the values, culture, practice, business model, products, brand promise and authenticity of the company. The media junket comprises seasoned journalists with many decades of combined journalistic experience. Some of them are senior editors and local correspondents of leading global media organisations such as the Voice of America, VOA in their various countries.

Together with these journalists from West Africa, I arrived in Malaysia on 9^th May, 2024 with an open and investigative mind. On Friday, 10^th May, 2024, officers of QNET took us to the QNET office located inside the15-storey QI Tower inKuala Lumpur. From the conversations and explanations that I had, I realised that theQI Tower is QI Group’s operational headquarters and it houses QNET as a subsidiary of the Group. The building is owned by QI, parent company of QNET and was acquired about 11 years ago. This is an important indication that the company is in business to stay for now and the future.

The Global Public Relations Manager of the company and his colleagues took us on a tour of the company’s offices at QI Tower. We were treated to an eye-opening presentation on the company, its history, business model, products, corporate social responsibility projects in Africa and across the world, its successes and challenges in Africa, among other things. Right there, we were presented with some amazing QNET products. It was the first time I met officials of QNET physically. I have seen and heard journalists or people in Sierra Leone erroneously refer to distributors or independent representatives (IRs) of QNET as ‘workers’ of QNET.

I realized that IRs are not QNET workers, they are promoters and distributors of QNET products who act on their volition and not officially in the name of QNET as direct employees. So, when an IR behaves in an unethical way, it is wrong to refer to him or her as a QNET worker or staff. It is also very important to separate the unethical behaviour or act of an individual from the general identity and reputation QNET.

At the QI Tower, we were given some QNET products and they include LifeCode Belite 123 (a 3-in-1 weight management formula), LifeCode Kenta (Vitamin-Rich Supplement for longevity), LifeCodeQafe (Safe and Effective Weight Loss Formula), LifeCode EDG3 Plus(A multi-functional beverage for elevating everyday health) and Omni wrist watch from the 150-year-old Bernard H. Meyer line of swiss-made watches.

We were told about how QNET products are developed. They are derived from extensive research from different parts of the world and they have been tried, tested and proven to be efficient in helping people achieve good health and wellness. They are also certified by many reputable certification authorities across the world. If those products were not real or good for the body, they would not be certified by the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore and other national certification authorities in many African countries where QNET products are promoted and distributed by their independent representatives.

On 12^th may, 2024 I attended the opening ceremony of QNET’s global conference, known as the VCON. Thousands of people from different parts of the world, including dignitaries and VIPs from Africa were present.

At the opening ceremony, I saw in real life and for the first time, the two founders of QNET, Dato Sri Vijay Eswaran and Mr. Joseph Bismark, who established QNET in 1998. They told the inspiring story of how they started QNET and the hurdles they overcame for the company to become one of the leading direct selling companies in the world. If everyone in Sierra Leone were present at the event, I believe all the misconceptions and misinformation about QNET would suddenly disappear from their minds. This is because the truth about QNET was told in the simplest and most understandable way ever.

On Monday, 13^th May, 2024, I had the opportunity of sitting at another presentation led by the top management of QNET. The team comprised the Regional General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, Biram Fall, Chief Communications Officer for the QI Group, Ramya Chandrasekeran, Deputy Chairperson of QNET, Malou Caluza (former CEO of QNET), Chief Legal Officer, Nikhil Patel, Chief Marketing Officer, Trevor Kuna and others. I vividly narrated the current perception people have about QNET in Sierra Leone and asked them about what they company plans to do about it.

The team acknowledged the fact that QNET is misunderstood and misrepresented by some people in Sierra Leone. They mentioned they have embarked on public education and media campaign dubbed: “SAY NO CAMPAIGN” in some West African countries and would intensify efforts towards educating the media and the general public in Sierra Leone. They mentioned that they are engaging and collaborating with authorities such as the security agencies to wipe out the bad nuts and unscrupulous people who are tarnishing the company’s image. They said they will continue to work with them to ensure the general public is educated and protected against scam, fake jobs and human trafficking allegations that are sometimes leveled against the company. They are also increasing the rate at which they train their independent representatives or distributors so that they can keep practicing ethical marketing behaviours.

The media junket organized by QNET is a big step in the right direction. It helps to deepen engagement and rapport with journalists who are the news makers. It is also an effective way of passing the right information to the general public through the journalists that visited the company in Malaysia. Seeing, they say, is believing, I have seen QNET in its totality and I believe that though the company is facing challenges of misrepresentation, it is a real company with beautiful and amazing products that are sold across the world. Now, I also know that QNET is touching millions of lives across the world, empowering them economically and championing their health and wellness, so they can live the best versions of their lives.

As He Asserts Vote Was Fair… Francis Ben Kaifala Defends Role in Bar Association Election Amid Accusations of Bias

May 22, 2024

Francis Ben Kaifala, the Anti-Corruption Commissioner of Sierra Leone.jpg

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

In a compelling interview on Radio Democracy, FM 98.1, Francis Ben Kaifala, the Anti-Corruption Commissioner of Sierra Leone, addressed the controversies surrounding the recent Sierra Leone Bar Association elections. His discussion shed significant light on the events that transpired during the elections, his role as ACC Commissioner and his unwavering commitment to protecting the democratic rights of members of the Bar Association.

The Sierra Leone Bar Association elections, a pivotal event for the legal community, faced unprecedented challenges this year. The ACC boss, who played a central role in overseeing the election process, spoke candidly about the attempts to hijack the legitimate election and the measures taken to ensure its integrity. He began by outlining the election procedures, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the established rules and protocols.

He described how he proposed changes to the agenda to prioritize the election over other matters, a decision that was subsequently agreed upon by the Bar membership through a vote. He explained that this move was crucial to maintain order and ensure that the election proceeded smoothly and without undue delay. “The members voted in agreement with my proposal, demonstrating the collective will to follow proper procedures,” he stated.

Responding to criticisms and allegations of conflicts of interest, the ACC boss was forthright in his defense. Critics had questioned his impartiality, suggesting that his political affiliations might compromise the election’s integrity. He dismissed those claims, asserting that his involvement was strictly in his capacity as a Bar member and not influenced by any political considerations.

“Political affiliations should not disqualify individuals from participating in democratic processes,” he argued, emphasizing the need for moral fortitude and character in conducting the election.

He also elaborated on the logistical challenges faced on election day, including the difficulties in verifying members before voting and dealing with disruptions by certain individuals. Despite these hurdles, he maintained that the election process was conducted transparently and with integrity. “The integrity of the election process was upheld and the results were transparently conducted,” he assured listeners.

Concluding, Francis Ben Kaifala, acknowledged the deep-seated problems within the Sierra Leone Bar Association, which have been exacerbated by the election controversies. He called for unity and reconciliation among all parties involved, urging them to move forward constructively for the betterment of the legal profession in Sierra Leone. “We must come together to address our issues and work towards a stronger, more unified Bar Association. Only through unity can we uphold the principles of justice and the rule of law that we all stand for,” he concluded.

In another separate interview by the Voice of America (VOA) conducted on the 20 May 2024 by James Butty, Francis Ben Kaifala, denied allegations that he hijacked the Sierra Leone Bar Association leadership election in favor of a candidate friendly to the Government.

Questioned on an allegation made by a rival contender and losing candidate, Wara Serry-Kamal, that the election was stolen with his help as he presided over the process, Francis Ben Kaifala reacted by informing VOA’s James Butty, how as member of the Association for 17 years, he had every right to supervise the election further asserting that even though the process experienced some challenges, it was free and fair.

The interviews with Commissioner Ben Kaifala on Radio Democracy and VOA not only provided a detailed account of the recent Bar Association election but also highlighted broader issues within Sierra Leone’s legal community. The controversies surrounding the election have brought to light significant concerns about the transparency and fairness of institutional processes within the legal profession.

Francis Ben Kaifala’s defense and explanation of the election procedures aim to restore confidence among Bar members and the public in the integrity of the Bar Association.

Public and professional reactions to Kaifala’s interviews have been mixed and while some commend his efforts to protect the democratic rights of Bar members and ensure a fair election, others remain skeptical, questioning the motivations behind his actions. The debate highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving a fully transparent and accountable legal system in Sierra Leone.

Looking ahead, the Sierra Leone Bar Association faces the critical task of addressing internal divisions and rebuilding trust among its members. The recent election controversies and the robust defense put forth by the ACC boss underscore the need for continuous reform and vigilance against attempts to undermine democratic processes. Unity and collective effort will be essential in moving the Bar Association forward and strengthening the legal profession’s role in upholding justice and the rule of law in Sierra Leone.

As Bar Past Presidents Push for Election Reversal… Augustine S. Marrah & Co Reject Tuma Gento Jabbi as Bar President

May 22, 2024

Sierra Leone Bar Association Elections.jpg

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a press conference held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at the New Brookfields Hotel in New England Ville, Freetown, Augustine S. Marrah, Wara Serry-Kamal, Presidential candidates of the recently concluded Sierra Leone Bar Association elections and other aggrieved members of the Association condemned the events at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sierra Leone Bar Association held in Kenema on May 18, 2024. They declared that the Executive purportedly selected at the AGM does not represent the will of the paid-up members and was not duly elected.

Reading a joint statement, Augustine Marrah stated that the AGM events represent a grave assault on the principles of democracy, transparency and integrity that the Association is founded upon. He highlighted that the actions and inactions of the Board of Directors, which led to the declaration of a purported Executive that was not duly elected are illegal and deeply troubling.

He further outlined several initiatives they undertook prior to the AGM to ensure the integrity, transparency and accountability of the electoral process making reference to firstly court applications, of which Solicitors for Julian Cole Esq., Wara Serry-Kamal and Joy Precious Bayoh filed court applications seeking provisions for voting by proxy and early publication and verification of the voters’ list. These applications were denied by the Courts.

According to him secondly, there were security concerns of which Wara Serry-Kamal requested meetings with the Inspector General of Police to address security concerns through two letters. Those requests were not granted and finally proposed meetings of which Marrah and Serry-Kamal requested a meeting with the outgoing President of the Bar Association, Eddinia Michaela Swallow Esq., to discuss and outline a clear pathway for the electoral process. That request was also declined.

He pointed out that those events confirm that the AGM in Kenema was undermined by the Association’s Directors, with insufficient support from the Sierra Leone Police and the courts.

Augustine S. Marrah expressed great disappointment at the undemocratic actions orchestrated by the Association’s Directors and their enablers in Kenema, which, he said, included blatant disregard for the electoral process and disenfranchisement of members. He pointed out how those actions violated the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, the Companies Act 2009 (as amended) and ethical principles of decency and integrity.

Key points raised by Augustine S. Marrah included manipulation of the voter list stating how its integrity was compromised, with duly paid members omitted. He intimated that the issue was raised but not addressed by the Directors.

He added that the agenda was amended to commence voting prematurely at 12 pm, despite the scheduled registration and arrival time being 12 to 1 pm maintain that it was a calculated move to disenfranchise colleagues traveling from Bo and Freetown, whose movement was impeded by a suspicious truck blockage on the Bo-Kenema highway.

Augustine S. Marrah noted that the appointment of Francis Kaifala, the Commissioner of the Anti-Corruption Commission, as Returning Officer, despite objections due to a conflict of interest and the refusal to allow the usual practice of appointing three senior Bar members to assist, is unacceptable. He said those actions by Francis Kaifala undermined the democratic process.

He also maintained that the purported elections overseen by Francis Ben Kaifala lacked a verified voter list and that security personnel, acting on Ben Kaifala’s instructions shut down the hall and dispersed members with pepper spray or teargas, furthering that only a handful of members, mostly wearing blue wristbands in support of Tuma Jabbi, were allowed to vote. These voters mysteriously generated a total of 560 votes for Tuma Jabbi in the purported election for President of the Bar Association, he stated.

Augustine S. Marrah concluded by stressing that the Executive purportedly selected at the AGM in Kenema does not represent the will of the paid-up members of the Sierra Leone Bar Association and is not recognized as duly elected.

He said that they will explore all legal means to ensure that an election of Directors, consistent with democratic standards, is held as soon as possible and finally they will pursue all accountability measures against those complicit in the sham electoral process.

“We urge all members of the Sierra Leone Bar Association to join us in this call for justice. Together, we can reclaim our Bar Association, uphold democracy and maintain the standards of fairness that we all cherish,” Marrah stated.

In another development, the Past Presidents of the Sierra Leone Bar Association in a press statement called for the annulment of the election results announced at the Annual General Meeting held in Kenema on May 17th and 18th, 2024. This call comes in the wake of violent incidents involving some members during the meeting, actions that the former leaders have unequivocally condemned.

The Past Presidents have also expressed their strong opposition to any attempts to disenfranchise members of the Association and deny them their right to elect new leaders. They stressed that any conduct undermining the democratic process within the Association is unacceptable and must be thoroughly investigated and addressed.

Citing the gravity of these issues, the former leaders have demanded the nullification of the announced results and the immediate organization of proper and transparent elections. They emphasized that these elections must adhere to the highest standards of fairness and impartiality to ensure that all eligible members can vote without intimidation or obstruction.

Furthermore, the Past Presidents urged the current leadership of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, headed by Ms. Eddinia Swallow, to take decisive action to rectify the irregularities and improprieties observed during the recent election process. They highlighted the necessity for the Association to uphold its commitment to the rule of law and democratic governance.

In their statement, the Past Presidents affirmed their united resolve to protect the integrity of the Sierra Leone Bar Association and ensure that justice and democracy prevail within its ranks.

The resolution was signed on May 20, 2024, by the following Past Presidents: Charles Francis Margai Esq., Francis Gabbidon Esq., Emmanuel Shears-Moses Esq., Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara Esq., Abdul Tejan-Cole Esq., Elvis Kargbo Esq., Ibrahim Sorie Esq., Rhoda Sultan Esq. and Basita Michael Esq.

Efforts to Discredit Former Transport Minister Kabineh Kallon Backfire

May 22, 2024

former Minister of Transport and Aviation, Kabineh Kallon.jpg

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a surprising turn of events, a smear campaign against former Minister of Transport and Aviation, Kabineh Kallon, has backfired spectacularly. Allegations from within the National Revenue Authority (NRA) suggested that staff members feared his potential appointment as Board Chairman would expose their involvement in corrupt activities. This led to a concerted effort to tarnish his reputation through newspaper calumny.

Last week, unsubstantiated rumors about the former Minister’s appointment fueled a wave of negative press. Numerous newspapers, disregarding journalistic ethics of truth, accuracy, and objectivity, devoted their front pages to malign Kabineh Kallon based on mere speculation. The vitriol and misinformation in those reports are reminiscent of the unfair media attacks faced by President Julius Maada Bio during his run for the SLPP flagbearership.

Despite these efforts, Kabineh Kallon’s track record speaks for itself. As Transport Minister, he oversaw the successful World Bank IRUMP project, introducing the Waka Fine buses and reviewing the Autospect contract to make it more people-friendly. His leadership revolutionized operations at the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) and improved the Port Authority and Marine Agency.

The accusations that Kabineh Kallon would damage the NRA only highlight the ignorance of those behind the smear campaign about the role of a Board Chairman. It is the Managing Directors and in the case of the NRA, the Commissioner General who handle the day-to-day operations, not the Board Chairman. The former Minister’s role would be to provide policy guidance and political leadership, not to manage daily activities.

The orchestrated campaign to destroy Kabineh Kallon’s reputation has ultimately failed, exposing the baseless claims and the ignorance of those making them. The NRA remains staffed by professional tax collectors and policy experts committed to maximizing revenue generation.

To those behind this defamatory campaign, their actions are now on record knowing that their mischief will not be forgotten.

SLCAA DG Musayeroh Barrie Addresses Emerging Threats to Civil Aviation at FAL.2024 Summit

May 22, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, delivered a critical speech at the Facilitation 2024 (FAL.2024) Global Summit, held on May 20, 2024 at the King Abdul Aziz International Conference Centre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The summit, hosted under the auspices of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), aims to enhance global aviation security and passenger experience.

In her address during Session 2 on “Facilitating the Air Traveller Journey,” the Director General emphasized the need for proactive measures to counter the evolving threats to civil aviation, despite Sierra Leone’s relatively modest aviation sector. She outlined various security challenges, including insider threats, cyber-attacks, drone-related risks and armed assaults on airport landside areas.

Key Points from Musayeroh Barrie’s Address:

Dilating on Insider Threats, Musayeroh Barrie, underscored the persistent danger posed by such, which include employees, ex-employees and contractors with privileged access to aviation infrastructure. She advocated for comprehensive pre-employment checks, random oversight activities, behavioral detection, stringent standard operating procedures and general security awareness training to mitigate those risks.

On ,Cyber Security, highlighting the increasing reliance on technology, she stressed the importance of robust Cybersecurity measures adding how although Sierra Leone has not yet faced cyber-attacks, however, policies are in place to secure digital systems used by key aviation service providers. She informed that training programs are being funded to enhance the cyber competencies of aviation security personnel.

With regards to Drones, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority Director General maintained that their proliferation poses a significant threat to aviation security. She referenced the 2018 Gatwick Airport incident as a cautionary example intimating how Sierra Leone has instituted regulations mandating drone registration and is preparing for the anticipated rise in the use of remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) across various industries.

Turning her attention to Armed Attacks Musayeroh Barrie highlighted recent global incidents of armed attacks on airports and outlined the strict access control measures, surveillance and emergency protocols implemented at Freetown International Airport to address such threats.

During the Q&A session, the Director General shared insights on the initiatives implemented over the past year to enhance aviation safety and security in Sierra Leone. These include comprehensive safety audits, enhanced training programs, stricter regulatory oversight and upgraded airport security measures aligned with international standards.

She also highlighted collaborative efforts with international aviation bodies like ICAO and regional entities such as the Banjul Accord Group. These partnerships, according to her, aim to harmonize regulatory frameworks and improve regional aviation safety and efficiency.

On Looking Ahead Musayeroh Barrie’s remarks at the FAL.2024 Summit underscore Sierra Leone’s commitment to addressing emerging aviation security threats through continuous assessment, inter-agency collaboration and proactive planning.

She maintained that the SLCAA’s efforts reflect a broader dedication to ensuring the safety and security of global aviation amid a rapidly changing threat landscape.

The FAL.2024 Global Summit, marking the 75th anniversary of ICAO’s Annex 9 on Facilitation, focuses on improving passenger experience and streamlining border control processes. The event emphasizes the importance of adopting technological advancements and implementing effective public health risk management in aviation.