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President Bio Declares National Emergency to Combat Rising Drug Epidemic

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a solemn address to the nation on April 4, 2024, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone declared a national emergency in response to the escalating crisis of drug and substance abuse, particularly the devastating synthetic drug known as Kush. The President emphasized the existential threat posed by this epidemic, which is tearing apart communities and robbing the nation of its future leaders.

President Bio expressed deep concern over the widespread impact of Kush, stating that it disregards societal boundaries of class, ethnicity, gender, or religion, affecting individuals indiscriminately. Despite the government’s efforts to stem the proliferation of drugs, the President acknowledged a surge in Kush consumption and fatalities among users.

In his address, President Bio outlined a comprehensive strategy to address the crisis. This strategy includes the establishment of a National Task Force on Drugs and Substance Abuse (NaTFDSA), comprised of key government ministries, law enforcement agencies, community organizations, NGOs, religious bodies, and individuals in recovery. The task force will implement a five-part plan focusing on prevention, care and treatment, social services support, law enforcement, and community engagement.

Furthermore, President Bio underscored the importance of education and rehabilitation in combating drug addiction. He highlighted initiatives to empower youth with knowledge and skills to resist drugs and invest in rehabilitation facilities for those struggling with addiction. Additionally, the President emphasized the need for job creation to deter idleness, a significant factor contributing to drug abuse.

The President issued a stern warning to those involved in drug production and trafficking, stating that there would be no leniency in enforcement efforts. He pledged to strengthen law enforcement and judicial mechanisms to prosecute offenders swiftly and decisively.

President Bio called for national unity in addressing the epidemic, urging citizens to support one another and reject the lure of drugs. He invoked the spirit of resilience demonstrated during past challenges, such as the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks, emphasizing the collective responsibility of every citizen and sector of society in overcoming the crisis.

In conclusion, President Bio extended condolences to families who have lost loved ones to drug abuse and invoked divine guidance in the nation’s efforts to combat the epidemic. He called upon all citizens to join hands in building a brighter, drug-free future for generations to come.

The President’s declaration of a national emergency signals a decisive step in Sierra Leone’s battle against the scourge of drug addiction, marking a united effort to safeguard the nation’s youth and preserve its future.

Obtain Your ID Cards at any Designated Centre Against the 28th June

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Citizens now have an ample time to obtain the Biometric National ID Card an extension of the deadline was recently announced by the Government of Sierra Leone through the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) to the 28th June 2024. The same deadline applies for securing the ECOWAS and Non-National ID Cards. This shift of the deadline was officially communicated through an issued Public Notice dated 28th March 2024.

As the importance of obtaining the ID Cards continues to be widely realized, Government thought it but fit to extend the deadline to ensure that citizens and non-nationals have adequate time to obtain these ID Cards.

Besides, to put all on a safer side consideration was also taken of  a Cabinet Directive that was ratified by Parliament in March 2022, mandating the linkage of ID Cards with the National Identification Number (NIN) embedded in the cards.

Importantly, it must be noted that this embedment streamlines access to a range of essential services, including financial transactions, vehicle registration, enrollment in public and private institutions, NASSIT enrollment, land and property registration, educational enrollment, SIM card registration, immigration services, business registration, and the registration of vital events.

The Public Notice also encouraged individuals to obtain their Identification Cards from any NCRA office or designated center across the country within the operating hours of 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday, by the new deadline of 28th June 2024. It underscores that while National and Non-National identity cards are mandatory, obtaining an ECOWAS identity card remains optional.

Furthermore, the NCRA will collaborate with the security sector to enforce compliance with the Cabinet Directive and Parliamentary Ratification, effective from 1st July 2024. This collaboration aims to ensure reliable identification of all residents, regardless of citizenship status, and to maintain consistency in their personal information.

It is important to note that the identification card bearing the unique National Identification Number (NIN) is legally recognized as the primary source of personal identification in Sierra Leone. Therefore, obtaining and carrying this identity card is imperative for all residents.

For those seeking further information or assistance, individuals are encouraged to reach out to the NCRA or visit their nearest registration center.

This extension follows a prior Public Notice issued by the National Civil Registration Authority in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police and the Office of National Security on 5th February 2024, aiming to provide the public with ample opportunity to obtain their ID cards.

The National Identification Numbers (NINs) embedded in ID Cards are set to become a prerequisite for a variety of transactions and services, ranging from work and resident permit applications to accessing government provisions, obtaining driver’s licenses, and even eligibility for public examinations. Moreover, the NIN will be linked to land ownership and building permits, underscoring its significance in accessing essential services and rights.

To streamline the acquisition process, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) established multiple centers across Sierra Leone, where individuals aged 12 and above are applying for their National ID Cards. Non-citizens are also mandated to obtain Non-National ID Cards for resident and work permits. These centers provide Securitized Biometric Identity Cards, ensuring an efficient application procedure.

It’s worth noting that the introduction of ECOWAS compliant, internationally benchmarked Identity Cards has engendered a sense of pride among cardholders, while also unlocking seamless opportunities for accessing social services and Government provisions.

The designated centers for acquiring Biometric ID Cards are as follows:

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 Roundabout).
5. NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station).
6. NCRA Offices: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.

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

SLAJ & Human Rights Defenders Condemn Threats against Journalist- Amadu Lamrana Bah

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

What has been described as a calculated move by certain Government operatives to heavily crackdown on dissenting voices attempting to hold State functionaries accountable for certain actions has been frowned upon by certain pressure groups and rights based organizations.

Concerns have been raised into the recent escalating threats, insults, intimidation, and attacks against an esteemed journalist, Amadu Lamrana Bah, of the Africa Young Voices (AYV) medium said to be emanating predominantly from individuals purportedly aligned with the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and Government personnel.

The threats and online attacks made against Amadu Lamrana Bah is said to have stemmed from his persistent questioning of the opportunity costs associated with the frequent international travels of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, as well as scrutinizing the President’s acquisition of a Maybach Benz Jeep, juxtaposing such against the backdrop of growing hardships faced by ordinary Sierra Leoneans.

As the threats that came in the wake of his expressed views escalates he has so far voiced concerns for his personal safety and security with evidences of the threats presented to the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ).

In a recent press release dated April 4th, 2024, The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) expressed deep concern over the issue.

“Freedom of the Press is a fundamental pillar of democracy and any endeavor to silence journalists through intimidation, threats, or harassment strikes at the core of this basic human right and undermines our democracy’s essence. It is imperative that we rally behind journalists like Lamrana and vehemently condemn these reprehensible actions,” remarked SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla.

According to SLAJ the safety of journalists, both online and offline, must be ensured and no journalist should be subjected to fear or intimidation for simply carrying out their duties. The organization also called upon the authorities to promptly investigate those threats and hold the perpetrators accountable.

The organization further said in a show of solidarity it stands with Amadu Lamrana Bah and all journalists in Sierra Leone facing similar threats, intimidation, and attacks for their unwavering commitment to truth and transparency adding that it is reiterating its dedication to defending Press Freedom and ensuring journalists can fulfill their crucial roles without fear of reprisal.

Another organization that has expressed its stance on the issue is the Human Rights Defenders Network Sierra Leone (HRDN-SL), which in a Public Statement, dated 5th April, 2024 and signed by its Executive Secretary said it strongly denounces the deliberate and calculated threats and online attacks directed at journalist Amadu Lamrana Bah.

HRDN-SL continued that such reprehensible actions not only violate the principles of Press Freedom but also infringe upon the fundamental rights enshrined in the United Nations Declaration on the Right and Responsibility of Individuals, Groups, and Organs of Society to Promote and Protect Universally Recognized Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.

The organization furthered that in accordance with the UN Declaration, which defines a human rights defender as anyone advocating for the promotion and protection of human rights, HRDN-SL underscores the critical role played by journalists, among others, in safeguarding those rights. It added that the recent wave of threats and online/offline assaults against Amadu Lamrana Bah occurred while he was exercising his right to criticize Government entities, as outlined in Article 8(2) of the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders.

With an outright condemnation of the ugly development, the HRDN-SL, urged the Government to leverage its membership in the UN Security Council not only to advocate for fundamental freedoms but also to ensure the full realization of fundamental rights and liberties saying it reiterates its commitment to defending human rights defenders and promoting a society where these rights are respected and protected.

Amadu Lamrana Bah, honored in March 2024 as “Journalist of the Year 2023” by SLAJ, has long been an advocate for truth and accountability, fearlessly holding public figures to task regardless of political affiliations.

Seacoach Reacts to Unclaimed Luggage Illegal Drugs Investigation

Seacoach, a firm specializing in luggage transportation, has publicly responded to the alarming discovery of banned substances in baggage on one of their buses. This incident has sparked a debate over the effectiveness of the company’s security protocols. In a move to address the situation, Seacoach has called for a thorough probe by law enforcement and has asked for the public’s understanding and patience.

The situation came to light on the night of April 2nd, 2024, when police intercepted a Seacoach baggage bus at an airport cargo area, acting on a tip. The vehicle was in the process of collecting luggage for delivery to Aberdeen without accompanying passengers. The bust led to the detention of the bus driver and security staff, under the suspicion of hiding illegal narcotics among the luggage.

Seacoach tried to facilitate the investigation by suggesting that passengers identify their luggage at the Lungi Jetty terminal. However, the Police directed that this process take place at the Police Station instead. This led to some luggage remaining unclaimed, raising questions about their contents.

A search of these unclaimed items revealed the presence of tramadol, a regulated narcotic. This discovery underscored a failure in Seacoach’s operational procedures, specifically on the part of the Operations Manager at Lungi, who is now aiding the police in tracking down the origins and intended recipients of the luggage.

The company is collaborating with authorities, ensuring the involved Operations Manager’s cooperation with the ongoing investigation. Seacoach hopes for a swift identification and prosecution of those responsible.

As the legal proceedings unfold, Seacoach urges the community to reserve judgment and emphasizes its firm stance against any form of drug trafficking. The incident has prompted a reiteration of the company’s commitment to societal welfare and the maintenance of high ethical standards.

In concluding their statement, Seacoach pledges to reinforce its service quality and integrity, alongside implementing measures to avert similar incidents henceforth.

Why National Emergency Declared On Drug And Substance Abuse?

The scourge of synthetic lethal drug abuse, particularly the notorious “Kush” in Sierra Leone, has reached alarming proportions, claiming the lives of countless youths and wreaking havoc on communities. For over two years, the unchecked proliferation of this deadly substance has allowed traffickers and distributors to thrive, while the Government’s response has been perceived as inadequate.

The recent burial of 32 Kush victims at Kingtom Cemetery, led by the Ministry of Health Burial Team under the leadership of, Sinneh Kamara, served as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of drug abuse. This somber event, captured on video and widely circulated on Social Media, sparked a newfound awareness of the crisis gripping Sierra Leone.

In the wake of this tragedy, President Brig Julius Maada Bio took decisive action, declaring a National Emergency on Drug and Substance Abuse. This declaration was accompanied by the establishment of a National Task Force on Drug and Substance Abuse (NaTFDSA), signaling a united front against this epidemic.

The urgency of President Bio’s call to arms cannot be overstated. As Sierra Leone faces scrutiny as a hub for Kush trafficking, both domestically and internationally, the need for concerted action has never been more pressing. The reputational damage inflicted by such accusations underscores the imperative for decisive intervention.

Amidst this crisis, the efforts of the Ministry of Health Burial Team, led by , Sinneh Kamara, deserve commendation. Their tireless dedication to raising awareness and providing humanitarian support, even in the face of adversity, reflects the best of Sierra Leone’s spirit.

However, the recent harassment and intimidation faced by the Burial Team raise troubling questions about civic responsibility. With vital public services compromised, such as the collection of decaying bodies on Orogu Bridge, the onus falls on authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens.

In this critical juncture, the support of every Sierra Leonean is indispensable. Rather than assigning blame, let us rally behind initiatives like the National Task Force and empower those on the frontlines, like Sinneh Kamara and his team, to combat drug and substance abuse.

As the nation confronts this crisis, let us heed President Bio’s call and stand united in defense of our youth and our future. The time for action is now, and the stakes could not be higher.

Ministry of Education Issues Clarifications on Conduct of 2024 WASSCE

The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education has addressed concerns circulating on Social Media regarding the upcoming 2024 West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WASSCE). In response to a video allegedly created by a Member of Parliament, the Ministry issued the following clarifications:

Registration Numbers: The Ministry confirmed that a total of 146,179 candidates have successfully completed registration for both Continuous Assessment Scores (CASS) and the Batch Registration System (BRS), qualifying them to sit for the WASSCE this year.

District Representation: It was emphasized that every district is adequately represented by eligible candidates for the forthcoming WASSCE.

Data Uploads: School leaders are responsible for uploading necessary candidate information into the WAEC portals. This data is not created by WAEC but provided by the schools.

Portal Reopenings: The Ministry clarified that WAEC portals are reopened for all schools nationwide simultaneously, rather than being managed by districts or regions.

Continuous Assessment Scores (CASS): CASS constitutes 30% of the total score for candidates taking the WASSCE, as stipulated by the West African Examinations Council’s requirements.

The Ministry assured ongoing engagement with WAEC regarding the potential reopening of portals for CASS and BRS within the available timeframe as preparations for the examinations continue.

This statement aims to address any misinformation or confusion surrounding the conduct of the 2024 WASSCE and underscores the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent examination process.

St. Mary’s Supermarket Shut Down by NRA for Tax Evasion

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a significant enforcement action, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) has on April 5, 2024 sealed off St. Mary’s Supermarket on Hill Station for failing to adhere to tax regulations. The supermarket has been accused of not issuing Electronic Cash Register (ECR) receipts and hindering tax administration, contravening Section 155A of the Income Tax Act 2000 and Section 50 (1) of the Goods and Services Tax Act 2009.

Authorities have imposed hefty fines on the establishment, with penalties set at NLe 10,000 and NLe 250,000 for each violation. The NRA’s move to shut down the supermarket signals a zero-tolerance policy towards tax evasion and non-compliance, aiming to secure the Government’s revenue stream.

The closure of St. Mary’s Supermarket is expected to send ripples throughout the local business community, serving as a potent reminder of the legal and financial consequences of evading tax duties. The supermarket’s failure to provide proper receipts is indicative of potential tax avoidance, which undermines public finance and development programs funded by tax revenues.

The NRA’s ongoing campaign to clamp down on tax evasion reflects a commitment to foster a fair business environment where compliance is non-negotiable. The Authority has reiterated its resolve to take all necessary actions to curb revenue loss and enforce the law, thereby promoting transparency and equity in the market.

The business sector is now poised to reassess its tax practices in light of the NRA’s reinforced efforts to ensure that all entities contribute fairly to the nation’s coffers. This incident highlights the critical role of tax compliance in supporting the country’s infrastructure and overall development.

Higher Taxes Lead to Higher Cost of Living & Widespread Smuggling

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In Sierra Leone the effects of continued imposition of higher taxes by Government can nave dire consequences, particularly in the context of giving rise to the widespread phenomenon of smuggling. As a nation heavily dependent on essential goods, largely not produced internally but brought in by businessmen and entities, it is important to somehow be incentivizing those that are making it possible for such essential goods to be available against the backdrop of economic sustenance and growth.

While the nurturing of local industries remains a focal point, it becomes imperative to underscore the pivotal role played by entities that bring in essential goods. These entities serve as pivotal actors in revenue generation, shaping consumer choice, and fostering employment opportunities. Thus, striking a delicate equilibrium between taxation policies and the vitality of the business sector assumes paramount importance.

At the heart of the discourse lies the substantial revenue accrued from taxes mobilized from the business sector, which constitute a crucial source of funding for indispensable public services and infrastructural projects.

However, the imposition of exorbitant tax burdens runs the risk of stifling the activities of the business sector, especially large entities, thereby impeding revenue streams and hindering overall economic advancement.

Fundamentally, the principle of consumer choice, inherent to the dynamics of a free-market economy, hinges upon access to a diverse array of products, whether domestically produced or relate to those that are brought in. Any measures that curtail the operations of business entities that bring in essential goods run counter to this principle, potentially stifling innovation and eroding market competitiveness, thus fostering an environment conducive to illicit trade practices such as smuggling.

The proliferation of smuggling not only leads revenue losses for the Government but also engenders distortions within market dynamics, underscoring the necessity for a conducive environment that facilitates legitimate business activities.

Furthermore, entities that bring in essential products serve as catalysts for employment generation and economic vitality across various sectors of the economy. From micro-enterprises to large-scale corporations, these entities sustain a vast network of livelihoods, thereby underpinning social stability and fostering economic growth.

In light of these considerations, policymakers are called upon to accord due priority to the protection and support of entities that are engaged in sourcing essential products to make them available for widespread consumption. Through the formulation and implementation of enlightened policies, coupled with concerted efforts from all quarters of society, Sierra Leone stands to benefit a lot.

Therefore higher taxes must be discouraged to prevent massive smuggling in order to foster an environment wherein shared prosperity flourishes.

Chinese Ambassador Donates to Social Welfare Ministry and Police Force

By Millicent Senava Mannah

In a remarkable demonstration of solidarity and friendship, His Excellency Wang Qing, the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, presented substantial donations to the Ministry of Social Welfare and the Sierra Leone Police Force on Friday, April 5th, 2024.

The ceremony, held at the Chinese Embassy Spur Loop in Freetown for the Ministry of Social Welfare and at the Police Headquarters for the Sierra Leone Police Force, symbolized the enduring partnership between the two nations in addressing societal challenges.

Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, graciously accepted a significant donation from the Chinese Embassy, comprising Eight Hundred bags of Twenty-Five Kilograms of Rice, Sixty barrels of Ten liters cooking oil, and Thirty bags of Fifty Kilograms of Sugar. This generous contribution underscores the unwavering commitment of both China and Sierra Leone to support vulnerable communities, particularly during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Speaking at the event, Melrose Karminty lauded the strategic partnership between her Ministry and the Chinese Embassy, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in uplifting vulnerable groups. She highlighted the Government’s proactive measures, including initiatives like #FEEDSALONE, aimed at mitigating the impact of external shocks on vulnerable groups.

The Minister also emphasized the significance of the donation in fostering solidarity within the Muslim community during Ramadan, symbolizing the spirit of compassion and support prevalent during this sacred month.

Ambassador Wang Qing, in his remarks at the Police Headquarters, commended the commendable efforts of the Sierra Leone Police in upholding the safety and security of the nation, particularly emphasizing their pivotal role in ensuring a peaceful electoral process during the June 2023 elections. The donation of 150 bags of rice, 20 Jerry cans of cooking oil, and 10 bags of sugar on behalf of the Sierra Leone Police Force reflects the goodwill towards the Muslim community within the force, especially during Ramadan.

IGP Fayia Sellu expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Chinese Embassy for their generous contribution, acknowledging the longstanding friendship between Sierra Leone and China. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Sierra Leone Police to ensuring the safety and security of the nation while extending support to the Chinese Embassy when needed.

The ceremony concluded with the formal handover of the donated items, symbolizing the strengthening of bonds and mutual respect between Sierra Leone and China.

The generous donations from the Chinese Embassy represent not only a tangible expression of solidarity but also a reaffirmation of the enduring friendship between Sierra Leone and China. As communities come together to celebrate Eid al-Fitr and reflect on the blessings of Ramadan, the spirit of generosity and compassion embodied in these gestures will continue to resonate, serving as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.

Transformative Changes in Sierra Leone Judiciary Under New Leadership

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a remarkable turn of events, the Judiciary of Sierra Leone has undergone a profound transformation in the past three months, spearheaded by the appointment of Honourable Justice Nicholas Colin Browne-Marke (JSC) as Acting Chief Justice. Appointed by His Excellency Brigadier Retired Julius Maada Bio on December 7, 2023, Justice Browne-Marke’s tenure has heralded a period of significant reform and a renewed commitment to judicial integrity.

The appointment of Justice Browne-Marke was met with widespread acclaim, not only from the public but also from within the Judiciary and the legal fraternity. Since assuming office, he has taken decisive steps aimed at revamping the Judiciary and reinstating its core values.

One of the foremost initiatives undertaken by Justice Browne-Marke was the overhaul of Human Resource Management within the Judiciary. Utilizing the mandate provided by the Courts Act of 1965, the Acting Chief Justice, in consultation with Judicial Management, initiated a comprehensive transfer and posting exercise for judicial staff in 2024. This move, grounded in principles of independence, equality, impartiality, accountability and integrity, aimed to reestablish best practices in staff deployment and curtail any semblance of favoritism.

Addressing the longstanding issue of backlog cases, Justice Browne-Marke swiftly prioritized their assignment to Judges upon assuming office. Over 500 backlog cases languishing in the Chief Justice’s office were promptly allocated to Judges, a move hailed for its commitment to transparency and fairness.

Furthermore, the Acting Chief Justice moved to eradicate the arbitrary removal of cases once assigned to Judges or Magistrates mid-proceedings, a practice that had long undermined the credibility of the judicial process. Under Justice Browne-Marke’s leadership, cases are now steadfastly retained by the assigned judicial officer unless compelling reasons necessitate otherwise, ensuring the integrity of ongoing proceedings.

In a bid to streamline operations within the Court of Appeal, Justice Browne-Marke introduced fixed panels, replacing the erstwhile ad-hoc system that had led to logistical challenges and potential bias. This reform, endorsed by Judges, has not only expedited the adjudication process but also fostered fairness and equitable case distribution.

The Acting Chief Justice’s proactive stance extended to addressing the needs of Regional Courts. Notably, he activated the Justice of the Peace (JP’s) Court to handle minor matters and facilitated the commencement of court sittings in previously underserved areas, such as Pujehun. Additionally, recognizing the burgeoning caseload in the Western Area Rural District, he conducted a needs assessment tour to ascertain the feasibility of establishing a High Court in Waterloo, a move aimed at enhancing access to justice for local residents.

In fostering collaboration across the criminal justice system, Justice Browne-Marke has nurtured cordial relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring expeditious execution of court orders and seamless coordination in legal proceedings.

Moreover, he has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to upholding adoption laws and preventing child trafficking, exemplified by engagements with international experts and meticulous scrutiny of adoption applications.

In just three months, the Judiciary under Justice Nicholas Browne-Marke’s stewardship has embarked on a trajectory of progress and accountability. While challenges persist, the groundwork laid by the Acting Chief Justice holds promise for a Judiciary characterized by fairness, efficiency, and unwavering adherence to the rule of law.

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