Senior Development Consultant Opines that Trust & Public Engagement are Key

August 12, 2022

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

According to Zainab (Zee) Tunkara Clarkson, Senior Development Consultant, one of the weakest traits of the current administration of Sierra Leone is lack of ability to build Trust with the citizens and Public Engagement.

She said recent political events of protest sweeping democratic strongholds around the world reflect a deep loss of faith in Government.

Zainab claimed that in Sierra Leone, for example, citizens perceive their institutions to be captured by elites who are disconnected, from the needs of their constituents or complicit in schemes that benefit the powerful at the expense of ordinary citizens.

Also citizens are struggling with high cost of living, unemployment, tribal allegiance, nepotism, lack of money or cash flow within the system due to the new currency changes and lack of basic amenities, she also maintained.

She said as part of its work on rebuilding trust more emphasis should be focused on public engagement and a better strategic communication.

According to her, the Government of Sierra Leone should try to tackle the root causes of the protests. It should explore the various ways the Government can strengthen trust – a crucial important task as countries emerging from the global COVID-19 pandemic are facing new global challenges.

For her, Trust is the foundation upon which the legitimacy of democratic institutions rest and without it all else would fail and fall apart like a pack of cards. Trust is crucial for ensuring the success of a wide range of public policies that depend on behavioural responses from the public. For example, public trust leads to greater laws and regulation compliance. If the public had trust and faith in GOSL, the protests wouldn’t have succeeded in bringing Freetown to its knees and a halt.

She said therefore it is imperative for the Government to tackle long-term societal challenges such as changing labour markets, lack of basic amenities, high unemployment among the youths and high rising cost of living . They need to empower the most vulnerable citizens, in particular, the youth and women.

Foreign Affairs Minister Describes Wednesday’s Incident as a Terrorist Attack

August 12, 2022

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Yesterday, the 11^th August 2022 Sierra Leone’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Professor David Francis engaged Members of the International Community at its Tower Hill Headquarters in Freetown to brief them about the unfortunate incident that occurred on the 10^th August 2022.

According to the Foreign Minister, Prof David Francis, who was updating the International Community with evidence of videos and pictures described Wednesday’s unfortunate incident as a terrorist attack against the State saying it was well orchestrated, planned, and financed to disturb the peace of the country and shouting, “Maada Bio Must Go” with weapons maintaining that it was never a peaceful protest.

Prof Francis furthered that the unlawful and destructive protest that caused the loss of lives of civilians and police officers happened in opposition strongholds in the East End of Freetown and North of the country.

He further stated that the APC Party is behind all the unrest saying there are evidences of premeditated statements, audios, and incitements from APC members to fuel tension and civil unrest in order to call for the removal of a democratically elected Government.

However, the All People’s Congress (APC) Party, in a Press Release signed by the Secretary and Head of Secretariat of ITGC, Hon Abdul Kargbo stated that it notes with grave concern the unfortunate spate of violent events in Freetown and other provincial towns resulting in the loss of their compatriots.

The APC said it offers their deepest sympathies for such grave losses and join the families of the compatriots in mourning their irreplaceable loss praying that May their Souls Rest in Peace maintaining that the loss of lives under any circumstance is regrettable and as a Party they unreservedly condemn violence in every form.

It continued that they are reminding all stakeholders that citizens have a constitutional right to engage in peaceful protests; done within the confines of and with respect for the law.

The APC also stated that, similarly, the security forces always have a constitutional duty to safeguard lives and property, be professional, exercise restraints, and fully observe the rules of engagement.

As a Party, it claims, they continue to reaffirm and reinforce their commitment to sustainable peace and national cohesion stating that more than ever, their democratic institutions and processes must live up to the constitutional tenets and respect the rule of law.

The APC urges all stakeholders to de-escalate tensions and avoid inflammatory rhetoric, unfounded pronouncements and fully respect the right and dignity of citizens and the rule of law.

It concluded that as a Party, they firmly believe and maintain that the answers to even the most difficult challenges we face as a nation are meaningful and constructive dialogue with all stakeholders in the national discourse to ensure sustainable peace and stability of the country.

Anti-Government Protest Leaves Some Dead & Others Seriously Wounded

August 12, 2022

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The security situation was tense in the East End of Freetown and other parts of the provinces on Wednesday, 10^th August 2022 as some people ventured out to protest over what they claimed to be the high cost of living in the country. There were roadblocks, in some parts of the East End of Freetown, set up by the protesters, some burning tyres at strategic points chanting, “Maada Must Go” contrary to the tranquility that prevailed in most parts of the West End of Freetown.

It became really tense as the time was approaching mid-day and
the Honourable Vice President and Deputy Chairman of the National Security Council directed the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) to assist the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) under the backing of Military Aid to Civil Power (MACP) Policy in the Emergency Category.

The directive was consequent on the potentially volatile security situation in the country caused by repeated social media incitements of the gullible population to embark on a countrywide violent demonstration with the aim of subverting the peace and stability of the State

As the security personnel, including Police Officers and Soldiers, were patrolling the streets in vehicles they were pelted with stones and other ‘missiles’ by the protesters, mainly made up of disgruntled youths and traders.

In return, the security personnel at first fired tear gas canisters to disperse small crowds of protesters that were seen in different parts trying to advance forward and overwhelm the security personnel. However, when it became apparent that the various crowds of people were still adamant and really bent on causing mischief, the security personnel resorted into firing live bullets, which lasted for hours.

Seven Police Officers, three in Kamakwie, one in Makeni and three in Freetown and twelve civilians, two in Kamakwie, four in Makeni and six in Freetown were reportedly killed on that fateful day.

As the situation further degenerated into lawlessness a nationwide curfew was declared across Sierra Leone commencing 3:00 pm to last up to 7:00 am on Thursday morning, 11^th August, 2022.

So far some have attributed the insurrection to the instructions of one Adebayor, a Sierra Leonean said to be residing in Holland, who has been releasing audios in which he has been caustically criticizing the SLPP Bio led Government for the economic hardship that many are said to be going through at the current moment. It was stated that it was him who declared the 8^th, 9^th and 10^th August, 2022 as days when Sierra Leoneans, especially business people to stage a nationwide protest as a way of registering their dissatisfaction with the way the present Government is governing the country.

Reacting to the ugly incident some Sierra Leoneans have expressed divergent views. According to a Lecturer and Political Commentator, Alhaji U. N’jai, he said that the President must speak to the people of Sierra Leone and take them along his vision and challenges.

“Get down to the masses from the East, West, North, and South of the country, listen to them with the goal of making positive changes for leadership is a process and not a position. Great leaders are born in moment of crisis,” he suggested continuing that he must be a leader of the nation and speak to the hearts and minds of every Sierra Leonean on peace, unity, national identity and cohesion, patriotism, and what it means to be a good citizen.

He underscored that the President must inspire hope and self belief among young Sierra Leoneans of a brighter future; a Sierra Leone that they can be proud of and one that they can help build by giving them voice and agency.

“Be deliberate and intentional in being a father of all Sierra Leoneans and let it be one that is seen and felt by every citizen from Kailahun to Koinadugu, Falaba, Pujehun, Kambia, Karene, Kono, Bo, Kenema, Tonkolili, Port Loko, Moyamba and Western Area.

He said the President had an opportunity very few Sierra Leoneans will ever have in 2018; that is Head of State for a second time.

“Please treat it with utmost respect and humility. Your legacy hinges on how you perform now. You alone can direct what story you want us to tell our kids, grand kids, great grand kids about you. Would that story be one of greatness or one who led us to further divisions? I pray that it is the former and not the latter. Your advisers may provide wide range of advice, I hope you know that it is your legacy and not them that is on the line,” he further recommended.

For now the situation has been put under control and normalcy restored but a curfew imposed from 7:00pm to 7:00am. See attached Press Release:

The Chief of Defence Staff
Ministry of Defence
Tower Hill
Freetown
Chief of Defence Staff:

Government Of Sierra Leone Office Of The President Military Aid To Civil Power Policy Directive Covering 9-12 August 2022

The Honourable Vice President and Deputy Chairman of the National Security Council have directed the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) to assist the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) under the backing of the Military Aid to Civil Power (MACP) Policy in the Emergency Category. This directive takes effect on the date of this correspondence.

The directive is consequent on the potentially volatile security situation in the country caused by repeated social media incitements of the gullible population to embark on a countrywide violent demonstration with the aim of subverting the peace and stability of the State. The SLP has assessed its resources and advised that it may not alone cope with the emerging security situation.

The object of the directive is to ensure that proportionate plans are made and necessary actions taken by the RSLAF in support of the SLP to ensure the security of the state and its wellbeing.

Abdulai Caulker
National Security Coordinator
Copy to: The Minister of Defence
9th August 2022

NP-SL is Effectively Rolling Out its Mission to the Utmost Satisfaction of Many

August 12, 2022

By Amin Kef-Ranger

NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) is a thriving indigenous petroleum marketing company that has stood the test of time since it was established by thirty-five Sierra Leoneans years back.

Overcoming turbulent times through shrewd, incisive and fine managerial initiatives, the company has gained a strong foothold in various parts of the country and has a presence in neighbouring Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia.

The company has truly proven that it is committed to the attainment and fulfillment of its mission which borders around “maintaining its dominant leadership position in the local market and strive to operate at sub-regional level by assuring the supply of petroleum products in an environmentally friendly manner while offering superior value for their customers, employees and other stakeholders based on a proud corporate culture with emphasis on safety consciousness, profit optimization, corporate expansion thereby contributing to national development”.

To a large extent the company has, over the years, successfully rolled out what is encompassed in the aforementioned Mission Statement. Today, in Sierra Leone and within the West African sub-region, NP-SL Ltd stands tall, dominating the petroleum marketing landscape in terms of its timely importation of high grade petroleum products, its effective marketing strategies, the number of dealers it has attracted to open Filling Stations even in hard to reach areas as well as the impressive ways it is optimizing customer care, earning it the covetous respect as 1^st for Customer Care.

With regards to safety consciousness, the company always ensures that it provides tips at all its Filling Stations on how customers should conduct themselves when they are transacting businesses. Information such as “No Smoking”, “Avoid Naked Flame”, “Turn Off Engine While Fuel is Being Pumped”, “ Don’t Make-Up While Driving”, “Switch off Mobile Phones” are just some of the precautionary measures that are constantly made visible to all and sundry amidst the fact that fire extinguishers are always handy.

In all the countries within the West African sub-region where the company opted to establish, it was more particularly concerned of building a well-run dominant petroleum company in Liberia that is poised to compete in the West African sub-region. To a large extent, that Vision has been achieved as NP-SL Ltd is a vibrant functioning entity that is assuaging the petroleum needs of people in that part of the world and doing so commendably well.

When the company was set up, the owners thought of having a Culture bordering around “developing a disciplined family with an institutional culture working towards building a great company”.

It is against such a backdrop that the company made it a policy that in terms of employment, indigenes should be given priority as opposed to expatriates or foreigners. The culture is in sync with promoting the Local Content Policy and has contributed to the improvement of the lives of many locals. Employees of the company are well disciplined, are motivated and courteous in the way and manner in which they treat customers from diverse backgrounds and walks of life.

Known for effective service delivery, the company has calibrated pumping machines that gives the exact amount of fuel requested for.

Also, it introduced what is now known as NP Smart Card which is a memory chip that could be credited from time to time by the holder in order to buy fuel. It is a cashless way of conducting business and many have attested that it is very convenient.

There is also NP-Gas which is a cooking devise that could be refilled with gas. Manufactured in different cylinder sizes it is said to be very efficient and they are sold at the company’s Filling Stations or authorized dealers at affordable prices.

With the core values of NP-SL Ltd anchored on: Safe Working Environment, Good Customer Service, High quality products, environmental sustainability and building positive teams, NP-SL Ltd has come a long way in executing its roadmap to become a viable business entity.

Nyayia Salamatu Saidu’s Innocent Involvement in Advocacy Leads to Political Persecution and Forced Exile

August 12, 2022

By Ibrahim Sesay

One of our seasoned reporters, Alvin Lansana Kargbo, was reliably informed by residents of the Dorcortee Community, located near Wilkinson Road via the Indian Temple, of a distressing case involving a 49-year-old Government health worker, Nyayia Salamatu Saidu, who was allegedly targeted by fervent political supporters of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).

According to community members, she was accused of being among those determined to incite political unrest with the intention of destabilizing the Government led by President Julius Maada Bio. A respected surgeon attached to the Lumley Government Hospital, Nyayia Salamatu Saidu had dedicated years of service to various health facilities before establishing the Emmasal Dorcortee Community Clinic, a private healthcare facility providing essential medical services to residents of the community where she resided for over ten years.

Community members recounted how her ordeal began when she was approached by a group of women in the area, who, recognizing her influence and leadership skills, urged her to take up the role of Women’s Leader. Initially reluctant, she was eventually persuaded to accept the position. Under her leadership, the women held regular meetings, discussing developmental projects and initiatives aimed at improving their collective well-being. It was during one of these meetings that they expressed concerns over the economic hardship gripping the nation, particularly the soaring prices of basic commodities, including fuel. Believing in the power of peaceful advocacy, they resolved to support the August 10, 2022, protests, hoping to draw the Government’s attention to their plight.

On the day of the protest, they took to the streets with placards, calling on the authorities to address the worsening economic situation. Identified as a leading figure in the demonstration, Nyayia Salamatu Saidu was arrested by the police and taken into custody. She was released after some time, but her troubles were far from over.

According to residents, shortly after the incident, a group of agitated young men, described as ardent SLPP supporters, stormed the Dorcortee Community, wielding sticks and other weapons. Declaring their intent to punish those who had attempted to undermine the Government, they began pelting stones at her residence before setting fire to her clinic, reducing it to ashes.

Fearing for her safety and that of her children, she was forced to flee the community. A close friend of hers, who spoke to our reporter on condition of anonymity, disclosed that Nyayia Salamatu Saidu had reported the threats to the Medical Superintendent at the Lumley Government Hospital. Concerned for her safety, the superintendent advised her to leave the country, warning that the political climate was too volatile and that she could be targeted further. Following this advice, she applied for a leave of absence from the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, which was granted.

In November 2022, she secured a visa and departed Sierra Leone. Her children were initially scattered in different locations, but through the support of relatives, they were eventually reunited. However, concerns remain about their safety, as suspicious individuals have reportedly been seen in the area, making covert inquiries about their whereabouts.

The events surrounding her plight are set against the backdrop of the violent protests and riots that erupted in Sierra Leone in August 2022. Sparked by a worsening cost-of-living crisis, the protests were concentrated in Freetown and several northern cities, including Makeni and Kamakwie. Demonstrators voiced their discontent with the Government’s handling of inflation, which had surged to 28% by June of that year. The rising cost of fuel and essential goods exacerbated public frustration, with many blaming the Government for failing to provide adequate relief. The peaceful demonstrations turned deadly, with at least twenty-seven civilians and six police officers losing their lives.

The protests, characterized as a “faceless” movement, were reportedly organized through digital platforms, with a Sierra Leonean activist based in the Netherlands known by the pseudonym Adebayor playing a prominent role in mobilization efforts.

Although the country had enjoyed relative stability in recent years, the scale of the unrest underscored deep-seated economic and political frustrations.

The events of August 2022 left an indelible mark on Sierra Leone, with many citizens, like Nyayia Salamatu Saidu, bearing the brunt of political persecution. Her forced departure serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who dare to speak out in times of crisis.

CHRDI Denounces The Killing Of Police Officers And Civilians On 10th August 2022

August 12, 2022

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) stated how it would like to voice its concern and displeasure over the recent spate of violent encounters between the police and some citizens in several parts of the country and the capital Freetown.

It continued that a number of people and numerous police officers are thought to have been hurt during the mass demonstration, according to readily available accounts.

CHRDI maintained that it is deeply concerned about those deaths, which could and should have been avoided.

The rights based organization says it wants to remind the security services that everyone in Sierra Leone has the right to assemble under the country’s constitution and other international human rights legislation.

It continued that, therefore, any illegal action by the security actors thereupon is neither acceptable nor justifiable in a democratic society.

CHRDI said a very concerning development for the nation’s cohesion and peace is the ease with which security personnel in Sierra Leone utilized live ammunition to disperse demonstrators in the streets of the capital city and other areas of the country.

It asked the question: “Was the use of lethal force by the police justified?” The organization stated it is a poignant question that needs to be asked even as the nation deals with the fallout from the despicable incident.

It asserted that they do, however, recognize that the Police must use force when required to uphold the law stating that such a mandate carries responsibility.

In light of the abovementioned issues, CHRDI says it believes it is appropriate to make the following observation that the security personnel must adopt a good community relationship and cease to use force in response to the slightest provocation; that the communities across the nation should try to avoid growing tensions in potential conflict-affected areas.

CHRDI stated that the concepts of democratic policing and justifiable force must serve as the norm for all law enforcement personnel adding that a police officer may only use lethal force after all other non-lethal options have failed or shown no possibility of producing the desired results.

It pointed out that whilst once more decrying all intentional assaults on public and private facilities and the wrongful killing of civilians and security personnel, CHRDI requests that the Sierra Leone Government launch an impartial investigation to identify and prosecute individuals who may be responsible for those atrocities.

The right based entity said the Police should make sure that everyone is allowed to exercise their freedom to protest and should defend the demonstrators from harm adding that any security-related activity must be based on upholding human rights and working to put an end to impunity.

The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International also urges the Government of Sierra Leone to launch an immediate investigation into the lawlessness of individuals and security personnel.

It stated that as a group that advocates for human rights, they will transform the collective rage into effective policy responses that will not only make life safer for citizens but also restore trust in the police and give hope to the families and communities that have been left in despair as a result of the violent acts.

CHRDI ended by stating that when the law is respected, and everyone in every community is treated with respect by the law, everyone in every community benefits adding how they also want to call attention to the duty-bearers who must defend human rights and work to aid those trying to exercise their rights imploring all Sierra Leoneans to maintain peace and tranquilly.

Note:

Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) is a rights-based social policy advocacy organisation. We draw attention to the responsibilities of duty-bearers to uphold human rights and seek to support rights-holders to claim their rights. CHRDI is in Special Consultative Status to the United Nations Economic and Social Council and accredited to several UN Agencies.

CCSL Expresses Alarm & Dismay Over the Eruption of Unwarranted Violence

August 12, 2022

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a statement on the events of the past few days, the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL) stated that it is alarmed and dismayed over the unwarranted violence that erupted in the country especially on Wednesday 10th August 2022, during which citizens and security forces were exposed to unwarranted death.

CCSL says it wants to take the opportunity to record their deepest condolences to the bereaved families and relations and the country at large as it accordingly calls for sanity to prevail and peace restored immediately.

The officers and members of Council appealed to each and every Sierra Leonean to demonstrate a high sense of patriotism and love for the Country adding that we have no other country to call our own.

CCSL pointed out that it holds that as Sierra Leoneans we ought to have learnt the bitter lessons of violence from the 11-year senseless war that brought wanton destruction on the country highlighting how the scars of that war are visible all over.

According to the CCSL, it is saddened that the violence experienced resulting in the loss of the precious lives and property of compatriots has the tendency to derail the country’s fragile democracy which we have been nurturing these past 20 years and has caused us further economic deterioration and depression.

Council stated that it is also worried over the spread of hate speeches and the misuse of the social media maintaining that such activities only help to add fuel to the situation which can best be described as “the social milieu sitting on a time bomb”.

The Council insists that “force countering force, iron for iron” does not yield positive results and therefore called for citizens’ dialogue with their Government to be intensified.

It stated that as moral guarantors of peace in the country they avail ourselves and offer their good offices as we have always done to facilitate such dialogues.

The CCSL maintained that it is not the time to insist on the “rightness” of motives/ intentions but rather the words of prophet Micah resound loud and clear: “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Micah 6:8 (KJV)

The Council of Churches in Sierra Leone pointed out that it is apprehensive over the time frame for the eruption of such violence stating how it is rather too close to the declared date for the 2023 elections and the possibility of it having a long-term negative effect on the whole process!

It asked the question: “What guarantee do peace loving Sierra Leoneans have that the election process will be non-violent and free from fear?”

The CCSL concluded by appealing for the use of dialogue and the ballot box as citizens to declare our stance stating how they will continue to pray for sustainable peace the country

Sierra Leone Police Releases Preliminary Report of the 10th August Protest

August 12, 2022

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a preliminary report on the violent protest that took place on the 10^th August 2022, released by the Media and Public Relations Department of the Sierra Leone Police Force, dated the 11^th August 2022, it was stated that following violent protests and demonstrations in parts of the Western Area (Rural and Urban), North-East and North West Regions on Wednesday, August 10, 2022, the Media and Public Relations Department of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) is taking the pains to release a preliminary report of available records, in respect of fatalities and injuries sustained by personnel and also Government and police property destroyed during the violent protests and demonstrations.

The Police said with regards the Freetown East Region the following personnel suffered injuries and one was fatally injured by irate youths:
(1) PC 19061 Momoh Kallon of Harbor Division. He suffered gunshot wounds; S/Major 11890 Ibrahim Jalloh attached to the Harbour Division sustained bullet wounds on his stomach whilst escorting PC Kallon;
Sgt. Desmond Hanciles aka Pastor who was attached to the OSD Headquarters was fatally injured at Rokupa by irate youths.

In relation to Police Stations and Post vandalized or completely burnt down at the Kissy Division the Kissy Market Police Post on Old Road under the Kissy Division was vandalized, Approved School Police Post was completely vandalized, Congo Water Police Post – vandalized and the Wellington Police Post – vandalized.

It was also stated that the PWD Police Post was burnt down, Bassa Town Police Post – burnt down, Corner kick 55 Police Post – vandalized, Lumpa Police Post – burnt down, Tombo Junction Police Post – vandalized, 2 Govt. Buses burnt down at Waterloo, NaCSA’s Office and Warehouse burnt down and the Ministry of the Lands office at Waterloo was also burnt down.

According to the Police, a total of 97 suspected demonstrators were arrested. It also stated that two personnel were killed in Kamakwie, namely: Supt. Osman Fofana (Support Officer) and one Sgt. 7389 Munda Turay (OSD)and One (1) PC 14625 Abu Barkar Turay in Makeni.

With regards the damage and destruction of property in Kamakwie the Police Station and the barracks were burnt down as well as private property belonging to Police Officers.

Within the Magburaka Division, 2 male suspects and one a female were arrested.

In the North West Region of Lungi Town Sixteen (16) suspects were arrested. Two Police Officers were injured and a motorbike belonging to a Police Officer was burnt down.

In its summary of facts, the Sierra Leone Police stated that in total 4 Police Officers were killed nationwide and 4 Police Officers were injured nationwide.
113 suspects were arrested for both North-West and North-East regions as of now with scores of public and private property destroyed

The Sierra Leone Police maintained that the Inspector General, Executive Management Board members and the rank and file of the SLP wish to extend heartfelt condolences to all the families who lost their relatives/loved ones (Police Officers) whilst in the discharge of their lawful duties to the State.

It underscored that they were killed in the service of humanity and in pursuit of the stability of the State maintaining that the savagery meted on their colleagues is indeed painful!

“We therefore will continue to mourn their painful deaths and will always remember them in our prayers,” it was also stated praying that the good Lord/Allah forgive their sins and grant all of them eternal rest.

The Sierra Leone Police concluded by informing the public that the Management of the Sierra Leone Police will continue to update them on developments, as and when they are available.

Africell-SL Internet Service is Now Up & Running

August 11, 2022

By Amin Kef-Ranger

Africell-SL subscribers throughout the country were really disappointed on the 10th August, 2022 when it became noticeable that they could not gain access to the company’s internet services.

Many expressed deep frustration mainly because many were trying to source information relating to the ugly scenario that emanated when some ventured out publicly to protest or demonstrate for what they claimed to be high cost of living culminating into a standoff between security personnel and the protesters resulting to reported deaths and damage to certain properties, especially in the East End of Freetown and in some other parts in the provinces.

It is understandable, on the part of subscribers to blame the telecommunications company out of their conviction that they were not accessing an essential service provided by the company, which in other words could be tantamount to not getting value for money.

However, the situation was not deliberately caused by a company that has been held in high esteem for effective internet connectivity and services.

As a way of setting the record straight, Africell-SL did not deliberately shut down the internet as the company is not directly responsible for operating the fibre optic backbone which is the sole responsibility of Zoodlabs, the entity that replaced the defunct SALCAB.

Zoodlabs, which is a comprehensive technology and smart utility infrastructure company which is powering the country’s submarine fibre optic via a 1.2MW of off-grid solar PV capacity supported by battery energy storage, has been bridging the digital divide in the country.

In a Public Notice issued by Zoodlabs, it was stated that on the 10th August 2022 there was a major internet outage that lasted for 1 hour 53 minutes.

According to the company, the outage was as a result of emergency technical maintenance on some of the company’s international routes.

The company furthered that during that outage period, they ensured that essential public connectivity services were up and running.

It continued that for now all circuits have been fully restored and are now stable.

From the foregoing, it could be seen that Africell-SL was indeed hapless to provide internet connectivity within that short period to its esteemed customers as the situation was way beyond the control of the company.

China releases white paper on Taiwan question, reunification in new era

August 11, 2022

Source: Xinhua

BEIJING, Aug. 10 (Xinhua) — The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council and the State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China published a white paper titled “The Taiwan Question and China’s Reunification in the New Era” on Wednesday.

The white paper was released to reiterate the fact that Taiwan is part of China, to demonstrate the resolve of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese people and their commitment to national reunification, and to emphasize the position and policies of the CPC and the Chinese government in the new era.

Taiwan has belonged to China since ancient times. This statement has a sound basis in history and jurisprudence, according to the white paper.

The UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 is a political document encapsulating the one-China principle whose legal authority leaves no room for doubt and has been acknowledged worldwide, says the white paper.

The one-China principle represents the universal consensus of the international community; it is consistent with the basic norms of international relations, says the white paper.

“We are one China, and Taiwan is part of China. This is an indisputable fact supported by history and the law. Taiwan has never been a state; its status as part of China is unalterable,” says the white paper.

The CPC is committed to the historic mission of resolving the Taiwan question and realizing China’s complete reunification. Under its resolute leadership, people on both sides of the Taiwan Straits have worked together to de-escalate tension across the Straits. They have set out on a path of peaceful development and made many breakthroughs in improving cross-Straits relations, according to the white paper.

Under the guidance of the CPC, great progress has been made in cross-Straits relations over the past seven decades, especially since the estrangement between the two sides was ended. Increased exchanges, broader cooperation and closer interactions have brought tangible benefits to people across the Straits, especially of Taiwan. This fully demonstrates that cross-Straits amity and cooperation are mutually beneficial, says the white paper.

“The realization of complete national reunification is driven by the history and culture of the Chinese nation and determined by the momentum towards and circumstances surrounding our national rejuvenation. Never before have we been so close to, confident in, and capable of achieving the goal of national rejuvenation. The same is true when it comes to our goal of complete national reunification,” says the white paper.

China’s development and progress — in particular, the great achievements over four decades of reform, opening up and modernization — have had a profound impact on the historical process of resolving the Taiwan question and realizing complete national reunification, according to the white paper.

The actions of the Democratic Progressive Party authorities have resulted in tension in cross-Straits relations, endangering peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits, and undermining the prospects and restricting the space for peaceful reunification. These are obstacles that must be removed in advancing the process of peaceful reunification, says the white paper.

External forces have encouraged and instigated provocative actions by the separatist forces; these have intensified cross-Straits tension and confrontation, and undermined peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. This runs counter to the underlying global trends of peace, development and win-win cooperation, and goes against the wishes of the international community and the aspiration of all peoples, says the white paper.

Relying on external forces will achieve nothing for Taiwan’s separatists, and using Taiwan to contain China is doomed to fail. The wheel of history rolls on towards national reunification, and it will not be stopped by any individual or any force, says the white paper.

Peaceful reunification and “one country, two systems” are our basic principles for resolving the Taiwan question and the best approach to realizing national reunification. Embodying the Chinese wisdom — we thrive by embracing each other — they take full account of Taiwan’s realities and are conducive to long-term stability in Taiwan after reunification, according to the white paper.

“To realize peaceful reunification, we must acknowledge that the mainland and Taiwan have their own distinct social systems and ideologies. The ‘one country, two systems’ principle is the most inclusive solution to this problem. It is an approach that is grounded in democratic principles, demonstrates good will, seeks peaceful resolution of the Taiwan question, and delivers mutual benefit. The differences in social system are neither an obstacle to reunification nor a justification for secessionism,” says the white paper.

“We are ready to create vast space for peaceful reunification; but we will leave no room for separatist activities in any form,” it says.

“We will work with the greatest sincerity and exert our utmost efforts to achieve peaceful reunification. But we will not renounce the use of force, and we reserve the option of taking all necessary measures. This is to guard against external interference and all separatist activities. In no way does it target our fellow Chinese in Taiwan. Use of force would be the last resort taken under compelling circumstances,” it adds.

The future of Taiwan lies in China’s reunification, and the wellbeing of the people in Taiwan hinges on the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. “We will join hands with our fellow Chinese in Taiwan to strive for national reunification and rejuvenation,” says the white paper.

Once peaceful reunification is achieved under “one country, two systems,” it will lay new foundations for China to make further progress and achieve national rejuvenation. At the same time, it will create huge opportunities for social and economic development in Taiwan and bring tangible benefits to the people of Taiwan, it says.

Peaceful cross-Straits reunification is of benefit not only to the Chinese nation, but to all peoples and the international community as a whole, says the white paper.