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ECOWAS & Nigerian Delegation Pay Emergency Visit to Assess Security Breach in Freetown

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

On Monday, 27 November 2023, President Dr Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone welcomed a powerful delegation composed of representatives from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The visit was a response to a significant security breach that occurred on Sunday at Wilberforce Barracks in Freetown.

The delegation, which included Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa, its Chief of Defence Military Intelligence, Major General Emmanuel Udiandeye and President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, met with President Bio at State House to express solidarity in the wake of the security incident.

The team brought a message of unity from the Chairman of the ECOWAS Committee of Heads of State and President of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as the other ECOWAS Heads of State and Government. They confirmed the ECOWAS Member States’ commitment to maintaining democracy and good governance throughout the region and assured their readiness to work with President Bio’s Government to prevent future security breaches.

Special envoy, Nuhu Ribadu, conveyed President Tinubu’s gratitude to President Bio for standing with the people of Sierra Leone and for upholding democratic values. Ribadu reiterated the enduring friendship between Nigeria and Sierra Leone, assuring the Sierra Leonean leader of their continued support.

Commenting on the incident, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, denounced the security breach and appealed to Sierra Leoneans to support the Government’s efforts to bring those responsible to justice. He reiterated ECOWAS’s zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of Government in the region.

President Bio expressed gratitude for the visit and the support from Nigeria and ECOWAS. He reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to democracy, justice, the safety of its citizens and maintaining Sierra Leone’s leadership position in global institutions. He also referenced the country’s progress despite the challenges, focusing on food security as a development priority.

In a reference to the country’s political climate, President Bio said, “Ever since I won in 2018, it has been one issue after the other.” He mentioned the refusal of the main opposition to accept the 2023 election results and their role in causing unrest. However, he remained optimistic about the nation’s resilience and the commitment of its people to peace and stability.

The visit underscores the regional commitment to maintaining peace and stability in West Africa, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts to address security concerns.

Police Declares Abdulai Turay Wanted

According to Police sources, one Abdulai Turay, a Presidential guard to former President Ernest Koroma, has been declared wanted in connection with the attempted coup of 26th November 2023.

Police sources say that his name was firstly mentioned on a cyber check conducted by CID which warrant of arrest was given to him, his wifey and family where sermon at CID (Central Investigating Department) they were detained but source confirm he had already flew out of the country on a Duty call on the 10th November 2023. By virtue he decided not to return to his arrested family. However tension mounted and he was also called upon as by one of those arrested in the said failed coup during rigorous interrogation by investing officers at the Central Investigation Department (CID) in Freetown, and his phone number discovered among numbers in the suspect’s phone. The police refused to be drawn on the specifics of Abdulai Turay’s involvement in the said coup attempt.

However, other sources say that Abdulai Turay was among the Presidential detail of the former President, and after the election, in which the former President’s party, APC, lost to the ruling SLPP party, he continued to hold the position as Presidential detail of the current President, Julius Maada Bio. It was further disclosed that Abdulai Turay was under constant suspicion of being sympathetic to the main opposition party, APC, the party of his former boss, and on several occasions had been sidelined by his colleagues around the current President. Fortunately for him, he is said to have traveled to the USA with 23 of others Unmanned personnel to attend the Tactical Application Conference (UTAC) but failed to return with the entourage, ultimately fueling suspicion of his allegiance to the opposition party while his wives and children where detained.

Thus, shortly after the President’s return, the unfortunate event of the attempted coup took place, in which known Presidential security details of the former President were involved. During the said attempted coup several of the former President’s security details were shot on sight, allegedly for involvement in the said coup. The said attempted coup was therefore blamed on the main opposition party APC, by the government and its party, leading to massive hunt for known party operatives of the former President’s party. Almond all associates of the former President, who were military of police officers were targeted, leading many to flee the country. Several were arrested and are in police custody pending trial for treason.

According to family sources, Abdulai Turay’s house was raided and his wife, Mariatu Turay, was arrested, after they could not find him. She was detained for a period of one month, and released when it was clear that Abdulai Turay was not going to show up. Family sources say that while in police custody, she was harassed and tortured in a bid to get any information from her about the whereabouts of her husband, as they were of the opinion that he had returned to Sierra Leone and was among those who staged the failed coup, like some of the others who were said to have traveled from abroad to participate in the said coup attempt.

Family says that their house at 12 Ecowas Street in Freetown is beinh raided constantly by security forces and ruling party youths, with death threats issued against Mariatu Turay and family. Death threats have also been issued against Abdulai Turay by loyalists of the ruling party if he returns to Sierra Leone.

As we go to press, police sources say that they are still monitoring the situation at have issued a warrant of arrest for Abdulai Turay whenever he lands in Sierra Leone, with his picture at the border posts.

Vice-Chancellor of University of Sierra Leone Caught in Crossfire and Attacked

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

On Sunday November 26, 2023, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone, Brigadier General (Prof) Foday Sahr, found himself caught in the crossfire as he left his home in an alarming incident that left him and his entourage shaken.

The Vice-Chancellor, who was on his way to catch a Seabird to Lungi for an overseas trip, was reportedly attacked and his vehicle was severely damaged. He and his companions were subjected to a harrowing ordeal when they were accosted by assailants.

During the incident, the Vice-Chancellor was manhandled, and his vehicle was ramshackled. His driver and security personnel also fell victim to the attack, being beaten and stripped by the perpetrators.

Fortunately, the Vice-Chancellor’s life was spared due to the intervention of a few other gunmen who recognized him as a Medical Doctor at 34 Military Hospital. These individuals had been treated by the Vice-Chancellor for free in the past, prompting them to come to his aid during the assault.

The attackers held the Vice-Chancellor captive inside his vehicle for an agonizing period of over two hours before eventually departing and heading towards Cockerill. However, in a further unfortunate turn of events, as none of the assailants were able to operate the vehicle, they opted to inflict further damage upon it.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and raised concerns about the safety and security of prominent figures in Sierra Leone. Authorities are actively investigating the attack, and efforts are being made to ensure the protection of individuals in positions of public prominence.

Sierra Leone on High Alert as Police Investigate Major Security Breach

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone’s law enforcement is on high alert following a major security breach in Freetown on Sunday, November 26, 2023. Unidentified individuals made a daring attempt to break into the military armoury at Wilberforce Barracks and proceeded to storm the Pademba Road and Special Court Correctional Centres and the Kissy and Calaba Town Police Stations. A considerable number of prisoners and suspects were illicitly freed during the incident.

The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has responded swiftly, launching a full-scale investigation led by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on Monday November 27, 2023. The investigation aims to ascertain the full facts, identify the perpetrators, and understand the motive behind the audacious acts of lawlessness.

The SLP has also initiated a manhunt to capture the assailants and the unlawfully released prisoners. In a public advisory, the SLP urged all illegally freed individuals to report themselves at the nearest police station or risk facing charges for “Escape from Lawful Custody.”

In an effort to expedite the investigation, the SLP is seeking the public’s assistance. Any relevant information that could lead to a speedy conclusion of the investigation would be greatly appreciated. The leadership of the SLP has acknowledged that some of the escaped prisoners have already turned themselves in and praised their efforts.

In a bid to incentivize information sharing, the SLP has announced a reward system. A reward of Fifty Thousand New Leones (50,000 NLe) is being offered for any useful information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the assailants. Additionally, a Ten Thousand New Leones (10,000 NLe) reward has been set for information leading to the arrest of any of the prisoners or suspects that were illegally released during the incident.

The public is encouraged to contact the Sierra Leone Police Headquarters, George Street – Freetown, at 23277361070, 23279509896, or 23277410112 (CID) or the toll-free number 900 Africell.

President Bio Demonstrates Zeal for Sierra Leone’s Progress

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Julius Maada Bio, speaking from the State House on November 27, 2023, conveyed his steadfast determination to advance the BIG FIVE GAME CHANGER National Priorities, aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth and development in Sierra Leone.

Highlighting the pressing nature of the nation’s challenges, President Bio emphasized the need to safeguard against any attempts to disrupt the peace and security that Sierra Leone has so far experienced.

Reaffirming his dedication to creating a peaceful and prosperous Sierra Leone that benefits all its citizens, the President concluded his statement by extending his well wishes for a productive and peaceful week to the nation.

US Embassy Backs President Bio’s Call for National Unity in Sierra Leone

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The U.S Embassy in Sierra Leone has expressed unwavering support for President Bio’s plea for national unity. It has urged all Sierra Leoneans to overlook their disputes and unite for the national good. The Embassy paid tribute to those who tragically lost their lives yesterday in defense of the country’s Constitution and government.

In the wake of these abhorrent attacks, the Embassy has demanded that the perpetrators be brought to justice following due process and the rule of law. It has lauded the bravery of leaders from all political backgrounds who have denounced violence.

The U.S. Embassy has reiterated its commitment to continue collaborating with the Government and the people of Sierra Leone to foster democracy, health, and prosperity for the nation.

International IDEA Concludes Programme Review Workshop with Partners

Following a year of implementation of the ‘Sierra Leone Democracy Strengthening Programme’, International IDEA and its partners, recently organized a programme review workshop that brought together boundary partners, the donor and other actors in the governance space in Sierra Leone to review progress and challenges in the programme implementation, and to set priorities in response to the post-election context in the country.

The event, held from 6 to 8 November 2023 at the Country Lodge Hotel in Freetown, was aimed at assessing the programme’s progress and re-strategizing on adapting it to address evolving priorities and changing dynamics in Sierra Leone’s post-election landscape.

The Senior Elections Programme Officer at International IDEA’s Africa and West Asia Office, Olufunto Akinduro, emphasized the organization’s commitment to enhancing democracy globally. She noted that while the 2023 elections were a focal point, the programme extended beyond electoral events to encompass broader democratic strengthening in Sierra Leone. Olufunto highlighted the collaborative efforts with partners and the programme’s flexibility in adapting it to the changing political context.

“Before the initiation of this EU-funded programme, International IDEA engaged in activities with the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) on electoral risk management—a crucial tool for promoting peaceful elections’’.  Looking ahead, Olufunto outlined the programme’s objectives, emphasizing on adapting to contextual issues in the next phase. This includes supporting legal reforms, the aftermath of the peace dialogues, and providing technical support to key democratic institutions.

Serena Bertaina, Head of Governance and Civil Society at the European Union (EU) Delegation in Sierra Leone, expressed satisfaction with the partnership formed with International IDEA over a year ago. “The program, established in collaboration with Sierra Leone authorities, concentrates on providing pre-electoral support to electoral management bodies and extending resources and technical expertise to various democratic institutions and organizations”.

Bertaina stressed the EU’s substantial investment in the programme and its ongoing commitment to defending democracy. “The program is set to continue for a substantial period, and the EU’s investment in it is considerable. However, as is customary, once an election concludes, we must assess what has been accomplished and look ahead to safeguard democracy. We operate not in a vacuum; numerous election observers were deployed in Sierra Leone post-election. Of course, we represent the EU, so we look at the EU observation mission recommendations with special attention. Additionally, we consider the recommendations of the national election observers and regional organizations. It is now for you to deliberate, assess what the program has achieved with your organizations to strengthen the system, and determine where we can further support the implementation of electoral observation recommendations.”

Dr Idrissa Mahmoud Tarawallie, International IDEA’s Head of Country Programme for Sierra Leone, presented an overview of the programme during the workshop. He discussed successes and challenges in the early stages of implementation, as well as in the lead-up to the election and its aftermath. Dr Tarawallie highlighted the programme’s delivery mode, status and activities completion rates for the first and second years.

Informed by recommendations from the European Union Observation Mission (EUOM) Report on the 2023 Elections, International IDEA engaged in constructive discussions, aligning and proposing collective program priorities with partner institutions. These partners included the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC), Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), National Council for Civic Education and Democracy (NaCCED), National Commission for Democracy (NCD), Independent Media Commission (IMC), Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), National Elections Watch (NEW), Independent Radio Network (IRN), 50/50 Group among others.

At the end of the three-day review, recommendations on the adaptation of the programme were developed into an options paper, which was submitted to the donor on Thursday, 9 November 2023. Feedback from the donor indicates a possible programme extension to November 2026 with additional funding.

Dr. Abu Bakarr Karim Assumes China Ambassador Role, Presents Credentials

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Dr. Abu Bakarr Karim, the newly appointed Ambassador of Sierra Leone to the People’s Republic of China (PRC), officially commenced his duties on Thursday, November 23, 2023. The commencement followed a formal presentation of his letter of recall and letter of credence to the Director-General of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hong Lei.

The ceremony took place in Beijing, the capital city of China, where the Director-General of the Protocol Department welcomed and congratulated Ambassador Karim on his new role. Mr. Lei expressed his commitment to deepening bilateral relations between China and Sierra Leone, acknowledging the historically strong ties between the two nations and emphasizing the need for further collaboration.

Ambassador Karim presented the Presidential Credentials, bestowed upon him by Sierra Leone’s President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, and conveyed warm greetings from President Bio, the Government and People of Sierra Leone to their Chinese counterparts, including President Xi Jinping of the PRC.

Expressing his gratitude for the warm reception by the Chinese Government, Ambassador Karim affirmed his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. He highlighted potential areas for increased cooperation, such as agriculture, trade, health, infrastructural development, and education through exchange programs.

In alignment with his mandate to promote mutual partnerships that contribute to Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development, Ambassador Karim emphasized that his primary objective was to foster ties that are both mutually beneficial and further the interests of Sierra Leone.

The dialogue between the two parties also included discussions about the forthcoming visit of Sierra Leone’s President to China. Both sides underlined the significance of expanding economic cooperation, especially in sectors like agriculture, mining, and technology.

The formal presentation of the letter of credence serves as the official recognition of Dr. Abu Bakarr Karim as Sierra Leone’s ambassadorial representative in China. This noteworthy event signifies an important step towards bolstering diplomatic relations and fostering mutual cooperation between the two nations.

It is expected that Ambassador Dr. Abu Bakarr Karim will present his final credentials to the President of the PRC on a date to be communicated by the Chinese Foreign Ministry to the Embassy of Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone Journalists Experience Cutting Edge Media at Fujian Media Group

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Twenty-five (25) journalists and media regulators from Sierra Leone embarked on a visit to the cutting-edge facilities of the Fujian Media Group during the 2023 Media Seminar, a collaborative effort between China’s National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) and the Research and Training Institute (RTI).

The tour marked a significant stride in fortifying cross-cultural media ties. The seminar aimed to showcase advancements in media, with a specific focus on promoting mutual understanding and cooperation within the industry, particularly in radio, television, and cultural journalism practices.

Taking place in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, from November 20 to 24, 2023, the week-long visit provided the visiting delegation with an opportunity to witness the cutting-edge media capabilities of Fujian Media Group. The journalists were welcomed by Chen Jiawei, the Vice-Chairman of the group, and Chen Yanming, the Deputy Director of the Provincial Radio and Television Bureau.

A notable aspect of the visit was the delegation’s tour of Fujian Radio and Television MCN, Fujian Press Conference Hall, Immersive Video Experience Hall and the all-media studio. The delegation expressed admiration for Fujian’s advanced technical equipment, beautiful office environment and diverse content production capacity.

Khalil Kallon, the Executive Secretary of the Independent Media Commission of Sierra Leone, conveyed his fondness for China and Fujian, expressing anticipation for future collaborations between Sierra Leone and Fujian media.

The delegation also explored the Fujian Radio and Television Network Group, gaining insights into the group’s main businesses, particularly in the safe broadcasting of radio and television and the construction and operation of various platforms.

The visiting team demonstrated strong interest in the group’s high-definition interactive cloud TV, BOSS system, audience data analysis, and information network security. Detailed inquiries and in-depth discussions unfolded regarding the group’s management concept and operational experiences.

Amin Kef Sesay, Managing Editor for the Calabash Newspaper, voiced his admiration for Fujian province’s media advancements. He advocated for increased media collaboration between the two countries, expressing gratitude to the Chinese Government and People for their hospitality and cooperation.

CEO of Rise Radio (96.3 FM), Asmaa James, underscored the need for synergies in the media landscape, emphasizing the potential for transformative collaborations between Sierra Leone and Fujian.

Theodora Renner of Radio Democracy (98.1 FM) expressed optimism about the prospects of mutual learning, stressing the importance of cultural exchange in enriching journalistic practices.

Ophaniel Gooding, representing Freelance Media, highlighted the significance of international media partnerships, fostering understanding and unity in a globalized media landscape.

The 2023 Media Seminar, a pivotal event in the diplomatic relations between China and Sierra Leone, is set to conclude on 27 November 2023. The seminar not only reinforced the importance of constructive journalism but also showcased the rapid development and outstanding advantages of Fujian’s media industry on the global stage.

UN Women Urges Sustained Investment to Combat Violence Against Women & Girls

By Foday Moriba Conteh

As the 16 Days of Activism against Violence Against Women and Girls Campaign commences, UN Women urges substantial and sustained investments to combat the pervasive issue of violence against women and girls (VAWG) in Sierra Leone. This campaign, observed since November 25th, 1991, seeks to rally support for ending this global scourge, which affects one in three women worldwide.

Statistics reveal alarming rates of violence, with four out of ten women in West Africa and nearly six out of nine in Central Africa suffering from violence. A recent DHS 2019 survey in Sierra Leone shows a troubling increase in physical violence against women, with 61% experiencing it in their lifetime and 43% in the preceding 12 months, a marked rise from 2013 figures.

Under the theme: “UNiTE! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls,” this year’s campaign, supported by the UN Secretary-General, emphasizes the need for collective commitment from Governments, institutions, the private sector and individuals to eliminate violence against women. Despite this urgency, only 0.2% of development assistance is dedicated to gender-based violence prevention and a quarter of countries lack proper budget monitoring for gender equality.

Setcheme Jeronime Mongbo, Head of Office at UN Women Sierra Leone, highlighted the dual nature of the internet as both a platform for expression and a breeding ground for abuse against women. The Economist Intelligence Unit reported that 38% of women have faced online violence, while 85% have witnessed digital violence against others.

Dr. Maxime Houinato, UN Women Regional Director for West and Central Africa, emphasized the critical need for increased investment in women’s empowerment programs and organizations to curb violence against women. Despite their pivotal role in this fight, women’s rights organizations receive a mere 5% of aid for combating  violence against women.

Sierra Leone has made strides in legislating against gender-based violence, passing significant acts such as the Gender Justice Acts, Sexual Offences Act, and the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act. UN Women calls on the government and women’s rights organizations to collaborate in creating a safer, more equitable society for women and girls.

In a world where gender equality and violence prevention remain pressing, UN Women stresses the importance of recognizing and investing in the unwavering efforts of women’s organizations.

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