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Lawyer Rashid Urges the State to Compensate Blacka

May 9, 2022

By Amin Kef Sesay

A purported mentally deranged youth, popularly known as Blacka was recently remanded at the Male Correctional Centre in Freetown after appearing in court on the principal charge of Public insult and provocation Contrary to section 2 of the Public Order Act of 1965.

His detention aroused divergent comments with emphasis being placed on the fact that since he is mad it was preposterous for the Magistrate to have remanded him in prison instead of sending him to a mental home.

After spending a night in detention the Magistrate then granted him bail.

One of Sierra Leone’s well versed and versatile legal luminaries in the person of Lawyer Rashid Dumbuya who is also the Executive Director of a rights activist organization, known as Legal Link and an award winning Lecturer at the University of Sierra Leone, in Public Statement dated 4th May 2022, expressed his candid views on the matter.

He said the Christian Lawyers Centre hereinafter referred to as LEGAL LINK is appalled and outraged by the frivolous, malicious and vexatious prosecution of BLACKA, a mentally – ill patient, by the Police giving cause for him to be remanded at Pa Demba Road prison at least for one day.

He said it could be recalled that Mohamed Mansaray ( alias Blacka) together with one business woman Kadiatu Yankaday were both charged with one count of Public insult and provocation Contrary to section 2 of the Public Order Act of 1965.

The Executive Director narrated that the accused persons were arraigned before Magistrate Rashid Jalloh of Magistrate Court No 4 Holden at Pa Demba Road in Freetown with the Police alleging in their Particulars of Offence, that on diverse dates between January 1 and April 23, 2022, in the presence of Mohamed Fofanah, the accused persons made insulting remarks against President Julius Maada Bio with intent to provoke him to commit a breach of the peace.

He continued that both accused persons pleaded not guilty to the offence adding how the Lead Defence lawyer for Blacka, C Pujeh Esq made an application for bail for him on the grounds of him being a mental health patient.

The rights activist lamented that notwithstanding that, however, the Magistrate refused the application for bail for both accused persons and sent them on remand at the Pa Demba Road prison, adjourning the matter to the 4th of May 2022.

He highlighted that following the outcry on social media over this travesty, the case was hurriedly called up the following day with bail granted to Blacka ( mental health patient) and the other accused person charged along with him respectively by the Magistrate.

The Executive Director said as an organization that defends the rights of vulnerable groups in Sierra Leone, they take the greatest exception to such an inhumane and barbaric act meted out against Blacka, a mental health patient by the State and vehemently condemn its continuation in fundamental terms.

He argues that whatever was the underlying motive and consideration behind such an unprecedented move to prosecute a mental health patient by the State, it is vital to note that such cruel act on vulnerable persons like BLACKA, has just succeeded in unleashing the highest level of embarrassment to our nation’s human rights credentials at the International level.

Lawyer Rashid furthered how at a time when the issue of mental health rights has taken the centre stage within the United Nations and other regional integration frameworks, it is suicidal to say the least for such stories of torture and victimization to be happening against mentally – ill patients in the country.

He underscored that apparently it has been widely rumoured that the illegal detention and malicious prosecution meted against BLACKA leading to his remand, may not have been unconnected with his earlier cynical statements and audios made against the President of Sierra Leone and his Government.

“But whatever the speculations might be, one thing that is certain however is the fact that, the story of BLACKA has revealed beyond imagination the extent to which our society has degenerated into savagery and beast-hood, not sparing even the mentally retarded from punishment for their unconscious involvement in the politics of the day,” he bemoaned maintaining how it is a sad and worrying state of affairs indeed.

He ,however, said looking beyond the BLACKA incident a legitimate question that comes to mind is: are their adequate, effective and robust laws, policies and institutions in Sierra Leone to protect the rights and welfare of mentally – ill patients like BLACKA? Saying the answer is certainly a big NO.

The Executive Director said while a colonial Lunacy Act does exists, it is quite clear that such statute does not adequately address the needs of mental health patients in the country adding that the few institutions also established to take care of mental health patients are largely under- supported and constrained in terms of expertise to deal with the special needs of those patients.

He pointed out that in the locus classicus case of PUROHIT VS THE GAMBIA, a matter that was decided by the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights concerning the inhumane treatment of mental health patients in The Gambia, the African Commission ruled that “the Gambian Government has violated the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights by her refusal and failure to have effective laws, policies and institutions in place to protect the rights and welfare of mentally – ill patients in the country”.

The significance of the above case at the African Continent , he continued, has revealed that States in Africa including Sierra Leone are under a duty to ensure that the rights and welfare of mentally retarded persons are adequately addressed either through legislations and or care institutions and not neglected at will.

Lawyer Rashid said unfortunately in Sierra Leone, apart from the acute absence of legislations that comprehensively protect the rights of mentally- ill patients in the country, there are still a large number of mental health victims roaming about the streets of Freetown aimlessly, unattended to and uncared for.

He argues that mental health legislation, policies and institutions are necessary for protecting the rights of people with mental disorders who are amongst the most vulnerable section of society.

“Apart from the threats to their life, they face stigma, discrimination and marginalization all the time and this increases the likelihood for their human rights to be violated,” he expressed dismay.

He suggested that a mental health legislation is therefore needed in Sierra Leone so as to provide a legal framework for addressing critical issues such as community integration of persons with mental disorders, the provision of medical care of high quality, the improvement of access to care services, the protection of civil rights and the promotion of rights in other critical areas such as housing, education and employment.

The Legal Link Executive Director said while they wholeheartedly condemn any attempt by anyone to show disrespect in whatever form to the office of the President, it should however be noted that in this exceptional situation, Blacka was merely a victim that was being exploited by wicked and unreasonable people for selfish gains.

He said if the Police were to take any drastic action, such should have been done against those people for aiding and abetting the commissioning of the crime.

According to him, it is certainly not Blacka that usually video himself when such uncomely words are being said by him maintaining that people do the video recording as well as the sharing which clearly constitutes an Offence under the Cyber Crime and Security Act of Sierra Leone.

He recommended for the Police to go after them and treat Blacka as a mere victim and a mental health patient that needs help.

The Executive Director said, in conclusion, given all the injustices that have been meted out against Blacka, a mental health patient in the entire saga, as a legal advocacy group that defends the rights of vulnerable persons in Sierra Leone, they are coming up with the following recommendations for the urgent attention of all and sundry: That the Sierra Leone Police offers no further evidence against Blacka in the pending criminal case before the Magistrate court which is yet to be discharged;

He mentioned that Magistrate Rashid Jalloh formally acquits and discharge Blacka of the offence (s) charged against him; that LEGAL LINK unequivocally and unreservedly condemn the exploitation of BLACKA, a mentally- ill patient by all sides of the political divided and urged that BLACKA be seen as a victim deserving of help rather than a stooge to be used and exploited at will by selfish politicians.

That the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Health provides the highest attainable standard of medical treatment and health care to BLACKA including confinement and rehabilitation as he goes through this perilous time of his life.

He continued that adequate compensation be provided to Blacka by the Sierra Leone Police over his illegal detention as required under section 17(4) of the 1991 constitution of Sierra Leone.

The rights activist said lastly they are urging the Parliament of the Republic of Sierra Leone to repeal and replace the colonial Lunacy Act through the passing of a more robust legislation that will specifically and effectively protect the rights of mental health patients in the country.

The Executive Director underscored that it is only by taking the above interim measures that the effects of the BLACKA situation can be mitigated before the International community stressing how any omission by the State will be deemed as a clear violation of the human rights of not only BLACKA but all mentally- ill patients in the country.

Craig Dean Assures Marampa Mines Ltd Will Expand Production to 7M Tonnes Per Annum

May 9, 2022

By Amin Kef Sesay

President Julius Maada Bio has on the 5^th May, 2022 commissioned the expansion project of the Marampa Mines Limited (MML), a subsidiary of the Gerald Group, from 2 million dry tonnes per annum, (DMTPA) to 3.25 MTPA, after the world’s largest independent, employee-owned metal trading house, recently completed the due process.

Host Paramount Chief of Marampa Chiefdom, Port Loko District, PC Alie Koblo Queen Kabia II, expressed gratitude on behalf of his people and happiness for the expansion by MML adding that the event which would mark a big boost to the economic growth of the country, called for national celebration.

He told the gathering that the Gerald Group, operating MML, had already done a lot for the chiefdom and by extension the entire district by making sure that peace and cohesion existed among people when it agreed to adhere to a corporate social responsibility that was developing the chiefdom and its communities.

Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Gerald Group, Craig Dean, thanked President Julius Maada Bio for his leadership in settling the dispute between the Government, the company and the people of Marampa. He stated that the company remains one of the world’s oldest and largest independent metals trading for advancing economies and building a more sustainable future.

He further noted that many big iron ore companies of the world produce 62% but that they at Marampa are producing 65% high-grade ore that is being transported and sold to many countries across the world. He added that the Government of Sierra Leone owns a 10% shares at MML and that they had already employed over 2,000 Sierra Leoneans, with about 40% of the employees being women.

“Your Excellency, ladies, and gentlemen, by next year, we will expand our production to 7 million tonnes per annum. We want to have a bigger scale of production that will be beneficial to the people and Government of Sierra Leone and our company. Thank you very much,” he concluded.

In his statement, President Julius Maada Bio said as a Government they believe that the mining sector is critical to national development and future prosperity, adding that that was why they commissioned a comprehensive, nationwide geophysical survey to obtain first-hand data that would help them negotiate with potential investors.

“We are also reviewing a favourable and inviting taxation and regulatory regime that promotes beneficiation, community development, and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives. As you already know, we have worked very hard over the last four years to make Sierra Leone a low-risk investment destination.

“Additionally, may I suggest that with new renewable energy technologies, MML could do better by integrating the use of cleaner energy in parts of its operations. This could be part of a future growth and sustainability strategy and clearly one that presents Sierra Leone’s mining sector as one that is open to innovation and low-carbon sources of energy,” he said.

He also lauded the fact that gender was firmly on the agenda of MML and that women were a meaningful and significant part of the workforce, adding that addressing the issue of gender parity in the mining sector is a novel idea that sits very well with his Government’s overarching priority of gender equality and women’s empowerment in national development.

“So, women, who are now encouraged to study STEM [science, technology, engineering and math] disciplines for free through 17 years of school and university under my Government’s free quality school education agenda, can get preferential placements at these kinds of mine sites.

“As a Government, we urge investors to be patient, open, and engaging, and we will do everything necessary to nurture a very healthy relationship – one that fosters goodwill, and from which the investors can register healthy profits and reinvest or repatriate those profits. So, I find the deep commitment to what Craig Dean calls ‘the inherent long-term value and potential in Sierra Leone,’ very assuring. Rest assured, therefore, that Government will fully play its part,” he said.

Chinese Embassy Hosts Its Second Information Salon 2022

May 9, 2022

By Amin Kef Sesay

The Chinese Embassy hosted its second session of Information Salon interactive program on the 5^th May, 2022 geared towards updating members of the Fourth Estate as well as individuals from various walks of life on the Global Security Initiative, China’s economic development and China-Sierra Leone relations.

In attendance were the Chairman of the Independent Media Commission (IMC), Dr. Victor Massaquoi, Station Manager of Radio Democracy Mme. Asmaa James, representatives from the media and Sierra Leone-China friendship organizations, Minister Counsellor Li Xiaoyong and other diplomats of the Chinese Embassy.

Li Xiaoyong, in his contribution, said the Global Security Initiative, first proposed by President Xi Jinping, in his keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the 2022 annual meeting of the Boao Forum for Asia, fully represents China’s wisdom and solution to make up for the global security deficit and guard world peace and tranquility.

He furthered by intimating that with “six commitments” as its core meaning, the initiative further promotes the building of a balanced, effective and sustainable security architecture on the basis of the common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable concept of security, which echoed the global call for peace, development, cooperation and mutual benefit.

The Chinese Minister Counsellor added that as a responsible major country, China always stands on the right side of history and the right side of international fairness and justice also maintaining that in response to the calls of the times, China will double its efforts to work with other countries for lasting peace and universal security.

Updating China’s economic development, Li said that despite challenges from fresh COVID-19 outbreaks and geopolitical uncertainties, China’s GDP in the first Quarter of this year expanded 4.8 percent from a year earlier.

He underscored that the fundamentals of China’s economy are strong and resilient, with enormous potential, vast room for maneuver and long-term sustainability.

Li also briefed the latest significant progress of China-Sierra Leone cooperation in health, infrastructure, education, etc.

Dr. Massaquoi and other guests spoke highly of the Global Security Initiative, congratulated China on its economic development achievements and appreciated the results of Sierra Leone-China cooperation. They said that the global security initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping is timely and rich in connotation. Its advocacy of adhering to a common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security concept is conducive to the establishment of an international order of mutual respect, equality and mutual trust, and provides a new direction for maintaining world peace and tranquility, eliminating the root causes of international conflicts and achieving long-term peace and security in the world.

It was apparent that Sierra Leone is ready to participate actively in global security initiatives and work with China and other countries to build a safer and better world.

During the programme, the diplomats of the Embassy had an in-depth interaction with the participants and exchanged views on China’s economic development and the fight against epidemics, Sino-Sierra Leone cooperation in fisheries and China’s stance on the Ukrainian issue.

NP-SL Goes the Extra-Mile to Always Ensure Energy Poverty is Averted

May 9, 2022

By Amin Kef Sesay

NP–Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd) has been regarded as a well-positioned institution within the realm of being a very pro-active institution that is always poised to pragmatically put concrete arrangements in place to ensure that the populace in this country gain access to qualitative petroleum products ranging from petrol, diesel, gas to lubricants, including the ever highly demanded Castrol lubricant oil that has been rated to be a very good for the efficient lubrication of various engines. The company conducts its transactions in a very transparent manner thereby giving utmost satisfaction to its numerous and esteemed customers.

NP-SL is indeed poised to continue to avail its numerous customers with qualitative products that the company markets.

The company has in its employ, a workforce as well as distributors that market its various petroleum products. As far as it has been established, this laid down policy which the company is implementing to the letter, is complementing the efforts of the Government to deepen development.

Today, it is now non-existent for individuals to complain that when they are in the process of procuring petroleum products, pump attendants cheat them in terms of not getting their money’s worth. The simple reason is because the Shareholders and Management of the company were indeed very business savvy to procure modern calibrated pumping machines which were installed at their various selling points and are very capable of churning out the exact quantity of what is demanded and the price to be paid. In this regard the company has bagged the covetous commendation of, “1^st For Customer Care”.

During a random countrywide survey conducted over a period of time targeting a large percentage of customers of the National Petroleum-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd), with the avowed objective of sounding their views on the operations of the company in the country, the methodology utilized bordered on asking random questions in order to get their candid views.

When quizzed on how they view the way the company treats its numerous customers across the country, most of the respondents warmly reacted by stating that the Shareholders and Management of the company are doing extremely well in the direction of effective service delivery and giving utmost satisfaction to customers.

Mohamed Bai Sesay, a renowned Social Commentator, maintained that when it comes to customer care, NP-SL Ltd is second to none within the business landscape of this country.

“From what I so far learnt in order to conduct sales in a very transparent manner and to give customers their money’s worth, the Shareholders of the company decided to procure and install modern calibrated pumping machines at their various Filling Stations that are capable to pump the exact quantity of fuel, at the same time display the price and quantity,” he pointed out, adding that to even think that the pump attendants are cheating customers could only be a mere figment of one’s imagination, as anything like that is farfetched.

A Development Specialist of long standing intimated that for the country’s economy to grow sustainably it is but important to deepen local content further arguing that it is only when we make meaningful use of both our human and natural resources that development could transpire.

“Instead of depending on the importation of certain consumable items and foreign expatriates, it is but very significant and cost effective to make use of what we have at hand to produce goods and services,” Abdulai Braima, an Economist averred, also stating that for NP-SL Ltd to make it a laid down policy and put into practice to offer employment exclusively to Sierra Leoneans is indeed laudable and no mean feat.

He further underscored that by offering jobs to Sierra Leoneans is a way of empowering the citizenry to take care of daily responsibilities and live improved standards of living.

“I really doff my hat to the Shareholders of the company for actualizing such a high sense of patriotism,” he expressed admiration.

A vast majority of those interviewed revealed that they are using NP Gas for cooking purpose, maintaining that it is very efficient and environmentally friendly. The NP Gas that they referred to is a cooking device which is manufactured in different cylinder sizes and sold at affordable prices at the company’s Filling Stations. “I discovered that this device is very fast in terms of performance and is now going like hot cakes, as many are now going for it, especially when the gas that is used to refill it could be easily secured at various Filling Stations ,” Memunatu Forna, a business woman selling cooking utensils on Sani Abacha Street informed.

With regards the use of NP Smart Card, it is one that is now in vogue. Some personalities who are using it said they find it very useful and a convenient way of purchasing petroleum products. They added that they always ensure their NP Smart Cards are credited to be used to purchase fuel, be it petrol or diesel. “Sometimes I don’t have to go through the hassle of going to the Bank on a busy Friday afternoon to withdraw cash just for the purpose of purchasing fuel that will last throughout the weekend. I do procure petrol by using my Smart Card and it is working perfectly well,” Musa Kalokoh, an Engineer told one of our reporters.

Momodu Fofana stated that the company is really growing by leaps and bounds. “For NP-SL Ltd to successfully establish branches in neighbouring Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast and The Gambia is indeed no mean feat, especially when cognizance is taken of the fact that these branches are operating vibrantly,” he pointed out.

From what was so far gathered throughout the conducted random survey, it can be safely concluded that NP-SL Ltd is indeed a living testimony of a successful and thriving business entity that is contributing significantly to the socio-economic development of the nation and worthy of emulation.

For Housemates Salone… Grab the Golden Opportunity Now & Vote for Your Favourite Contending Aspirant

May 9, 2022

By Amin Kef Sesay

Currently, there are Sixty (60) young ambitious Sierra Leoneans, who are fervently aspiring for the limited space available to accommodate Twenty-Two (22) Housemates out of those Sixty (60) in the House before the commencement of the Reality TV Show, Housemates Salone Season 3, on the 22^nd May, 2022, with the slogan, “Di Game Get Yagba, If You Nor Able Na for Pull Hand”.

Already a voting process, put together by the organizers of the Reality TV Show, the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire and Africell –Sierra Leone, is ongoing that will ultimately qualify the competent or eligible twenty-two aspirants to finally make it to the House.

As at present all the sixty aspirants, who were shortlisted after the general audition of all those who applied to become Housemates, have their unique numbers, from 1-60 which must be used by members of the public when casting their votes.

The organizers were so considerate to make the voting process very simplistic for members of the public at home and abroad to cast their votes. Voting can take place by easily sending the number of a favourite candidate via SMS to: 5500 or Dial *5500#. For International voting an individual can call: +23299005500.

Members of the public are also at liberty to cast their votes via Afrimoney through voters’ Africell Sim Cards by dialing *161*10#* plus the Numbers of their favourite contestants from any Africell line or code.

There is also a new online voting platform and a brand new website for international voters across the world to vote using credit or debit cards by just visiting: https://housematessl.com and/or visit: https://www.africell.sl.

Once Housemates Salone Season 3 commences on the 22^nd May 2022 members of the public could watch it live 24/7 on AYV Entertainment Channels 34 & 33 and AYV on DSTV Channel 399.

What is in store for the Housemate that will emerge as the ultimate winner of the competition is a Star Prize of Two Hundred and Fifty Million Leones (Le 250M) plus a round trip to Dubai.

Also, one of the sponsors of the Reality TV Show, Zarlux Car Rental, has revealed that a brand new car will be given to the winner of the Zarlux Car Rental task that will be performed by the Housemates in the House during the course of the show.

Housemates Salone Season 3 with the slogan: “Di Game Get Yagba, If You Nor Able Na for Pull Hand”, is geared towards providing the enabling environment to help young people discover their innate talents, as well as expose them to the wider world, in a bid to foster youth empowerment in the country.

In as much as only one Housemate will emerge the ultimate winner at the end of the show, all the other participants will benefit, in one way or the other, from the media exposure which will put them at vantage positions to become possible choices by corporate entities for the promotion of their brands.

It should be noted that AYV and Africell, over the years, have been at the forefront of promoting and empowering young people. Both institutions have copiously supported sporting activities, the entertainment industry, incorporating young people as Brand Ambassadors, offered job opportunities and rolled out mapped out programmes that have seen young people meaningfully contributing to development activities at community up to national levels.

With 22 Housemates from both sexes staying under the same roof, physically cut off from the rest of the world, socializing, learning useful skills like cooking, singing, going through trials on how to articulate well in different situations, setting goals they want to achieve, learning how to resolve conflicts, playing games, swimming and so on, will provide the necessary experiences needed to successfully go through life.

Members of the public indeed have ample time from now on up to the 22^nd May to cast their votes for those they deem fit will make the Reality TV Show really entertaining. It is a given opportunity to avail the aspirants the chance to market themselves to the wider world with the conviction that in the long run they could be identified for their innate abilities which others may be interested of harnessing for commercial or other purposes.

Make use of the opportunity AYV and Africell is offering by voting today.

Seawright Mining Pays $ 80,000 Surface Rent To Gbense, Tankoro & Kamara Chiefdoms …. Donates 200 bags of rice

May 9, 2022

By Joenal

Seawright Mining Company (SMC) has on the 5^th May,2022 ,for the second time now,paid the sum of eighty thousand US Dollars ($80,000,00) as surface rent to Gbense, Tankoro and Kamara Chiefdoms within the Kono district and donated 200 bags of 50kg rice.

During a colourful ceremony at the Native Administrative Barry in Gbense Chiefdom, SMC Chief Operating Officer (COO), Jabulani Mkoko, presented the cheques and bags of rice to the Chiefs in the presence of stakeholders including the Member of Parliament, a representative from the Office of National Security (ONS), youth representatives, civil society, women representatives, officials of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Ministry of Mines and Mineral Resources and National Minerals Agency (NMA) among others.

The payment was for SMC Boroma Concession, on which the Company will undertake large scale diamond mining project in the Gbense Chiefdom, which hosts 80% of the concession, with a slight concession spilling to Tankoro and Kamara Chiefdoms in the Eastern Region of Kono.

In analyzing the payment plan, the SMC Chief Financial Manager, Osman Kamara, disclosed that the total surface rent paid was $ 80,000. 00 (Eighty thousand US Dollars) paid in the Leones equivalent, using the current Bank of Sierra Leone exchange rates to the three chiefdoms.

Gbense Chiefdom got 80% which is $ 64,000.00 while Tankoro Chiefdom got 10% equivalent to $ 8,000.00 and Kamara Chiefdom got 10% which is $ 8,000.00.

Following the surface rent laws of NMA, the payment was divided into 5 portions for the three chiefdoms:

For Gbense Chiefdom, Land Owners, Tankoro Chiefdom Administration received 50%, that is $ 4,000.00, the Paramount Chief, P.C. Paul Ngaba Saquee V received 15% which is $ 1,200.00, the City Council, Koidu New Sembehun City Council received 15% which is $ 1,200.00, the Chiefdom Administration, of Tankoro Chiefdom Administration received 10% which is $ 800.00 and the Constituency Dev. Fund, Constituency for Koidu Town received 10% which is $ 800.00.

For Tankoro and Kamara Chiefdoms respectively Land Owners of the Tankoro Chiefdom Administration received 50%, that is $ 4,000.00, the Paramount Chiefs P.C. Paul Ngaba Saquee V and Aiah Melvin Ngekia II respectively received 15% which is $ 1,200.00, the City Council, Koidu New Sembehun City Council as mining revenue received 15% which is $ 1,200.00, the Chiefdom Administration Tankoro Chiefdom Administration received 10% that is $ 800.00 and the Constituency Dev. Fund, Constituency Development Fund Koidu Town received 10% that is $ 800.00.

The Hon Member of Parliament for Constituency 028 ,Hon. Sahr Charles, described the event as a landmark occasion to stakeholders of the three Chiefdoms because Seawright Mining made a huge investment in that Chiefdoms by making huge starts in its development strides.

He also stressed that the distribution of the surface rent is mostly for the benefit of an organization and not for any single individual.

The Regional Engineer of the National Minerals Agency (NMA), Ing. Daniel Lavalie spoke about the establishment of NMA which according to him is to develop the mineral sector for it to benefits the citizenry.

He said SMC is one of established companies that is helping to uplift land owners through its annual distribution of surface rent payments expressing the hope that stakeholders will use the distributed funds for the right purposes.

He emphasized that SMC has made huge investments in the mining sector within Gbense Chiefdom, Kono district and the country at large.

Gbense Chiefdom’s Acting Paramount Chief, Aiah M. Kamanda congratulated Seawright Mining, for its continued impact and investment in their Chiefdoms.

He said what SMC has done demonstrates cooperation, peace and unity and spoke of the assistances that the company had rendered and is still rendering to them.

Chief Aiah M. Kamanda appealed to SMC to open an office in Koidu City for easy access and for them to make provisions for more stakeholders to be gainfully employed.

In his remarks, before presenting the cheques, SMC Chief Operating Officer (COO) Jabulani Mkoko said surface rent payment is by law but underscored that there is no direct benefit going to the community and because of that they decided to donate 200 bags of rice to the community residents for them to enjoy part of the benefits.

“We know if you give rice to the women, they will cook for the whole family and the whole family will benefit.”

He disclosed that SMC has already started moving their equipment to the site for them to start operations in earnest.

“We have finalized the mine plan and soon the implementation will begin to take place. You will start seeing an increase in drilling and infrastructure activities on site which means an increase in employment opportunities for the youth,” he assured.

The 200 bags of rice were distributed thus: Gbense got 100 bags, Tankoro 50 and Kamara Chiefdom 50.

Statements were also made by the Anti-Corruption Commission representative, Alpha G. Koroma, Civil Society Organization representative Alusine Kargbo and the Local Unit Commander, Tankoro Division Musa B. Kargbo among others.

As SLPP Chairman of Const 125… Alhaji Komba Donates Food Items to Muslims & Galvanize Support for the Party

May 6, 2022

By Esther Wright

The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Chairman of Constituency 125 in the Western Area, Alhaji Komba on the 29th of April 2022 donated food items to Muslims who were fasting during the Month of Ramadan from which over 600 Constituency Executive members, Zonal Heads, members and supporters of the ruling SLPP benefitted as well as engaging them in a constructive dialogue vis-avis the forthcoming 2023 General Elections.

Chairman Alhaji Komba thanked all of them for their tireless efforts in portraying the aspirations of the party not only within his Constituency but at the national level as well .

He assured the members and supporters of the party that his election in April 2021 was no mistake disclosing how his task as the youngest serving Chairman of the party in the Western Area is to disseminate the good works of the Government led by President Bio in order to create an impact difference aimed putting the party in a good stead as against the upcoming Municipal, Parliamentary and Presidential elections in 2023.

He intimated how since his appointment he has received mammoth support from his respective party members including the Women’s wing which, according to him, has brought a new political flavor that signifies total victory for the ruling SLPP party in Constituency 125.

Chairman Alhaji Komba also underscored his firm belief in the trust given to him maintaining that together with other members of the party they are determined to change the political scenario of a dumping Constituency to one that is worthy of emulation by others.

He said by achieving such his party members have demonstrated unity among themselves in show casing President Bio’s exemplary strides since he was elected into office.

Komba said the integrity of Sierra Leone as a leading nation that had the first University, first Sea Port, first Municipality and first Judiciary in British West Africa has been bastardized by certain political leaders who were not sincere to further push Sierra Leone into a better future .

He encourage his colleagues not to hesitate in giving a positive image of the four (4) years in governance of the Bio led Government which, he said has seen a dramatic shift from old and outdated philosophies to new ones that are impressive to both local and International Communities. He ended up assuring all that his party will emerge victorious again in Constituency 125 come 2023.

Erudite Lawyer & Rights Activist Dilates on Highs & Lows of Justice Fisher’s Judgment

May 6, 2022

By Amin Kef Sesay

In an Advisory Opinion expressed by Rashid Dumbuya Esq, the Executive Director of LEGAL LINK and former Commissioner for Human Rights in Sierra Leone dated 3rd May, 2022, he said it could be recalled that on Thursday 28th April 2022, Justice Adrian Fisher delivered the final Judgment in the landmark case between Alfred Peter Conteh ( Plaintiff) and former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, the All People’s Congress (APC) party, the Secretary General, Osman Foday Yansaneh and the PPRC ( Defendants).

He pointed out that amongst other things, the learned Judge dissolved the current APC National Executive, ordered for an Interim Transitional Governing Committee to be set up and imposed a perpetual injunction against the current National Executive, barring them from holding themselves out as Executive members of the APC party forthwith.

Lawyer Rashid pointed out that the All People’s Congress National Secretary General, Ambassador Osman Foday Yansaneh was also ordered to vacate office within 14 Days and to further provide handover notes to the Chairman of the Interim Transitional Governing Committee (ITGC) that would be set up.

He furthered that without any doubt, the judgment of Justice Fisher has sparked hues and cries as well as hot debates in many parts of the country and also on many social media platforms with some agreeing to the judgment while others questioning the ratio decidendi ( reason for deciding) in the entire case.

The rights activist said as one of the leading Civil Society Organizations that advocates for constitutionality, the rule of law, democratic good governance, justice and fairness in Sierra Leone, the legal interns of LEGAL LINK have taken time out to do a thorough analysis of the judgment delivered by Justice Adrian Fisher in that case bringing out the “highs” and “lows” in a bid to not only applaud best practices but also hold the Judiciary to account where applicable.

He said but before delving into the crux of their analysis, it is vital to emphasize that this academic exercise and critique is being done in good faith without any ill-will, malice or unrelated considerations of any kind.

The learned lawyer maintained that as a matter of fact, there are a plethora of judgments that LEGAL LINK has similarly critiqued in time past namely such as the Dual Citizenship case brought by Yumkella at the Supreme Court, the case of Augustine Sorie Sengbeh Marrah Vs the Inspector General of Police recently decided by the Supreme Court and the High Court Judgments against 10 APC parliamentarians amongst others.

“The Alfred Peter Conteh vs APC case is therefore no exception and must be treated as such,” he established a premise.

He said also that it is worthy to mention that this piece does not set out to inquire as to whether Justice Adrian Fisher was qualified, fit and proper to have presided over the case as a Judge but rather, the piece limits itself to analyzing the highs and lows of the judgement of Justice Adrian Fisher and his handling of the entire case till its logical conclusion.

The Executive Director said firstly, it must be applauded that the Judge’s mentioning and interpretation of the preamble of APC’s 1995 constitution in arriving at his decision was apt and revolutionary maintaining that no doubt, the preamble of any constitution establishes the history, objective, purpose and spirit of the constitution.

He said it is important therefore for such preamble to always be referenced when determining the true object, purpose and spirit of a constitution.

According to him, a cursory look at the preamble as stated under the APC 1995 Constitution, reveals that the 1995 constitution envisaged a democratic APC party and one that would always uphold the tenets of democracy, rule of law, respect for human rights and constitutionality as the modus operandi.

He said the Judge was therefore apt and correct to have called out on the preamble and philosophy of the APC Party as a basis for his decision.

Rashid said according to the Judge, Article 3 of the 1995 APC constitution sets out the aim, objectives and philosophy of the Party citing one of such key objectives of the 1995 defunct constitution which is “to attain and sustain political power through democratic and constitutional means in order to build a free, democratic society with equal rights and opportunities and justice for all”.

The Executive Director argued that secondly, the Judge’s move to dissolve the Executive of the APC party on the grounds that they were not democratically elected and hence illegal in office was also plausible.

He maintained that such is the case because, save for only two officers of the party, all other executive members ought to have been elected into office as dictated by the 1995 APC constitution and not nominated or selected.

Rashid continued that furthermore, declaring that the National Advisory Committee (NAC) of the APC party was not properly constituted since bulk of its members were never elected but selected was also a revolutionary way of thinking by the Judge.

He pointed out that certainly if bulk of the Executive members that constituted NAC were never elected into office, then they certainly would have been illegal and unfit to be a part of NAC in the first place since it is only the Chairman and Deputy Chairman of NAC that are allowed to be selected as provided for by the 1995 APC constitution. Rashid pointed out that because the two of them cannot form NAC, hence according to the Judge, NAC was not properly constituted and as such never existed in the first place.

The Lawyer said such an argument is quite plausible indeed and must be applauded.

He continued that more significant still the Judge’s nullification of NAC’s decision/ bye law introducing the “selection clause” for the determination of Executive members / officers/National Delegates was also commendable as such decision/ bye law was inconsistent with the 1995 APC constitution and the 1991 constitution of Sierra Leone.

Lawyer Rashid said according to Justice Fisher, Article 14.1.1 of the 1995 APC constitution provides as follows:

“The National Advisory Committee may for ratification by the National Delegates Conference, make rules and enforce any bye law(s) not inconsistent with the provisions of this constitution and the national constitution of Sierra Leone”.

He continued that according to Justice Fisher, “The NAC of the All People’s Congress party doesn’t have the POWER to override the party’s Constitution…” adding that the bye law gazetted which introduced the selection clause was illegal and outrightly inconsistent with the spirit, object and purport of the 1995 APC constitution and the National constitution of Sierra Leone. Hence, it’s nullification.

Lawyer Rashid stated that such a reasoning by Justice Fisher is quite commendable.

He said importantly also, was the forming of an Interim Transition Governing Committee( ITGC) by the learned Judge to take charge of the APC party in the interim period and conduct its affairs till the National Delegates Conventions were held.

The Lawyer argued that the directive by the Judge for the formation of such a structure is quite superb as it will help ensure that no vacuum exists in relation to leadership within the APC party after his judgment.

He said additionally the endorsement and retention of the new APC constitution was also a correct decision by the Judge notwithstanding the fact that the Executive body that oversaw its making were illegal in office.

Lawyer Rashid continued that any order from the Judge to the contrary would have increased frustrations within the party and perhaps led to outright unrest in the nation considering the amount of time, resources and energy that have been put by the members of the APC into the making of their new constitution.

He therefore argued that retaining the new APC constitution was certainly a step in the right direction.

The Legal Link boss said also worthy of mentioning is the strength, vitality and resilience displayed by Justice Adrian Fisher in the face of outright molestation, humiliation and threats both from within and outside of Sierra Leone as he presides over this matter saying that is quite commendable to say the least.

He said a Judge, in their opinion, must always muster courage to pursue the ends of justice irrespective of agitations, condemnations and threats that may be levied on him both within and without in the execution of such mandate.

“Let Justice prevail even if the heavens were to fall!” he acclaimed stating that perhaps the most plausible and outstanding legacy of the judgement is that it brings back democracy in the APC party and gives ultimate power to the masses of the party especially in determining the choice of leaders (Executive officers, wards, districts, constituency and regional representatives, delegates, flag bearer of the party) that could represent their interests going forward .

He argued that such democratic power of choice by the people/ masses of the party had longed being eroded away from them by virtue of the selection clause that was being introduced by NAC.

But with the Justice Fisher judgement, he maintained, power has again been restored into the hands of the masses of the party as against the few which he said is quite laudable indeed!

Lastly, according to Lawyer Rashid, the fact that the Judge was also able to deliver such an all important judgment within the three months period as provided for under the 1991 constitution is also something that is praise worthy of.

He said according to Section 120 (16) of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone:

“Every court established under this constitution shall deliver its decision in writing not later than three months after the conclusion of the evidence and final addresses or arguments of appeal, and furnish all parties to the cause or matter determined with duly authenticated copies of a decision on the date of the delivery thereof.”

He said from the above provision, it is clear that Justice Adrian Fisher had three months after the close of the final application/ address to deliver the Judgment in the case.

Rashid said, truth be told, the proceedings actually ended on the 28th day of March 2022 when the defendants finally filed their Affidavit of Compliance to the court maintaining that counting from that date, it is clear as crystal that the Judge actually took about one month to deliver the all important judgement.

He concluded by saying that LEGAL LINK therefore salutes the deep sense of cosmic responsibility displayed by the Judge particularly with respect to speed and further urges other Judges in the Judiciary of Sierra Leone to emulate such an example particularly in the area of speedy delivery of judgements.

With regards the lows and negatives of the judgment, he said notwithstanding the above great accolades evident in the judgment, there were however a few downsides picked up by LEGAL LINK in the judgment of Justice Adrian Fisher as well as the handling of the entire trial by him which is also worth mentioning to all and sundry.

He said first and most, regrettably, it is their candid submission that the learned Judge missed out on a golden opportunity to inject a democratic culture within the Interim Transitional Governing Committee ( ITGC) when he directed that the Chairman of the ITGC be nominated instead of being elected.

Rashid said the fact that Justice Adrian Fisher ruled that Alfred Peter Conteh is to Nominate 9 representatives including the Chairman of the ITGC makes the judgment of his a dramatic irony indeed.

He said let’s remember that the whole object and purport of this judgment by Justice Fisher was to see an APC Party that embraces the tenets of democracy (elections, human rights, rule of law) on all fronts including its leadership stratas.

According to him or them, it was therefore inconceivable, preposterous and disappointing to say the least for the Judge to revert to the “old order” which was the very reason why he dissolved the entire Executive of the APC including NAC in the first place.

He said that the defence that such a directive was ok since the ITGC was only an interim, transitional arrangement in their opinion, does not still exculpate the Judge from blame since such a chairmanship position in the ITGC is of immense importance for the actualization of a democratic culture within the APC party from the onset.

Its formation therefore, he said, ought to have depicted the highest of democratic standards, providing the Chairman with the requisite legal standing and moral high ground to enforce democratic culture and ideals within the party during his limited tenure.

He claimed that they assert that the Chairman cannot instill a democratic culture within the party if he did not come to office by such means. “He who comes to equity must come with clean hands”, he quoted.

The Lawyer said it could certainly had made a huge difference if the Judge had ordered that the 21 man committee shall elect amongst themselves a chairman who will now preside over the affairs of the ITGC.

He said the role of a chairman in any organization or arrangement is very key and for people to accept his leadership as legitimate, they must be given an opportunity to make a decision into his coming into office in the first place arguing that such is however lacking in the judgment of Justice Adrian Fisher and unfortunately so.

Secondly, the fact that the Judge at some stage of the trial allowed the APC executive and NAC to do an emergency delegates conference for the adoption of a new constitution but later declared this very executive as illegal in office is also quite conflicting and confusing to say the least.

Why did the learned Judge then allow an illegal executive undertake such a democratic exercise in the first place? Could this have been an oversight on the part of the Judge? or was he under the reasonable belief at the time that the APC executive and NAC were duly elected and as such legitimately in office? At what stage did this thinking of the Judge change? Is the work done by this illegal executive not also illegal?

To be continued

AMNet Intensifies Malaria Awareness Raising Campaign

May 6, 2022

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During the commemoration of World Malaria Day on 25 April during which period there were recognitions of global efforts made so far to control malaria, one of the vibrant Non-Governmental Organizations currently operating in the country, Advocacy Movement Network (AMNet) on Monday 25^th April, 2022 joined other organizations in the country to commemorate this year’s World Malaria Day on the theme: “Zero Malaria-Draw The Line Against Malaria”.

The commemoration which was held at the District Health Management Team (DHMT) Office and the Waterloo Government Hospital respectively created the platforms for awareness raising on malaria within these communities by bringing out causative factors, prevention and how to treat it once it is contracted.

Speaking during the event, Brima Conteh, the Program Manager for the NFM 3Project AMNet, stated that World Malaria Day is set aside to highlight the need for continued investments and sustained political commitment for malaria prevention and control in the country.

He informed all that the issue of the existence of malaria has been a great concern not only in Sierra Leone but the world as a whole, adding that even though there are still challenges but said the theme for this year’s commemoration which is “Zero Malaria-Draw The Line Against Malaria” is one that sends a signal that with hands on deck and through collaborative actions Sierra Leone can achieve a Zero malaria status especially if we draw the line against malaria in the country.

Brima Conteh disclosed how they thought it fit to embark on such an event with the sole purpose of engaging community stakeholders on their role in encouraging community residents to make use of health facilities in their different communities, furthering that most times they choose to seat at home or visit quack doctors.

“We can only defeat Malaria as community residents when we change our mindsets towards how we deal with Malaria in our various communities,” he informed adding how some people will express the fear that if they visit health Centres they could be told they have sicknesses other than malaria.

He told that the health facilities are there for you them and should visit them whenever they experience symptoms of malaria in order to get prompt treatment.

He concluded by appealing to the Government through the Ministry of Health and Sanitation to increase budgetary allocation to the health sector and also called for effective monitoring of health facilities to make sure that they are effectively working and up to appreciable standards.

Focal Person for the Western Area Urban District Health Management Team (DHMT), Augusta Foday, said that most countries in the world have combated Malaria but said it is still rampant in Africa, stating that if other countries have combated its prevalence then Sierra Leone could not be an exception maintaining that through collective efforts such could be achieved.

She revealed that according their data, 38% of death occurrences are due to Malaria and that 17% of people admitted in various hospitals is as a result of malaria.

“We are all at risk to contract malaria but the more vulnerable are pregnant women and children below the age of 5 years. But the good thing about Malaria is that it can be prevented and treated by adhering to preventive measures which include sleeping under treated malaria bed net, proper sanitation etc,” she pointed out.

Giving the keynote address, the District Medical Officer of Western Area Urban District Health Management Team (DHMT), Dr. Foday Sesay said that the issue of malaria is very important as the current status prove that the rate of people admitted in those health facilities is as a result of having malaria.

He encouraged all to treat malaria seriously maintaining that it should be eradicated in the country.

He said Government has been working hard to ensure that mosquito bed nets are distributed to health facilities and citizens but said in most cases citizens don’t use them for the intended purpose.

Dr. Foday Sesay also used the opportunity to admonish all to be engaging in community and environmental sanitation in their various communities which he said will also support the eradication of Malaria in the country.

Stakeholders present included Sheriff Taju- Deen working for the NFM 3Project at AMNet, Dr. Sylvia Fasuluku the District Medical Officer Western Area Rural who also delivered a statement.

UN Women Holds Consultative Session with Local Entrepreneurs

May 6, 2022

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Ahead of their 2023-2027 strategic direction with support from Irish Aid, UN Women has on Thursday 28^th April, 2022 held a consultative session with local entrepreneurs at the Radisson Blu Hotel at Aberdeen in Freetown.

In her keynote address, the Director of Research and Delivery at the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Yakama Manty Jones urged local entrepreneurs to be talking of convergence rather than competition.

She noted that there had been major conferences with regards addressing women issues, yet, progress seems slow in addressing those issues. “It is about time we change the conversation if we must effectively address women’s issues,” she admonished.

Yakama Jones continued that many efforts had been made in terms of addressing women issues but questioned the effectiveness of such efforts in achieving the collective goal of women.

She urged that the strategy which UN Women will develop to accelerate progress on women issues should be comprehensive adding that there are many questions to be answered and taken into consideration when developing a strategic plan.

Jones urged that local entrepreneurs do business not only for profits but to also positively impact humanity further stressing on the need for gender-based budgeting and collectivity among women in the country who are also entrepreneurs which she said will thereby make their contributions more efficient. “Women have what it takes, they just need to change their approaches and mindsets,” she also advised.

Head of Office, UN Women, Setcheme Jeronime Mongbo stressed the need for women’s economic rights also asserting that one cannot be talking about the rights of women without talking about their economic rights.

Mongbo disclosed that the consultation was the first they have held with the private sector, noting that the consultation will be integrated into the outcome.

She referred to the women as their partners underscoring the need for the businesses of these women to be strengthened in a bid to ensure economic growth and building gender equality in the country.

Chief Executive Officer of Invest Salone, Chukwu-Emeka Chikezie, disclosed that women are heavily represented in the informal sector, noting that if women’s issues are to be addressed then rapt attention must be paid to the informal sector.

Chikezie revealed that a critical challenge in addressing women issues is the lack of data, noting that there is deficiency in identifying where the women are and what they are doing.

In her own contribution, President of the Renewable Energy Association of Sierra Leone, Leah Suma, stressed the need for energy financing for women living in rural areas.

Mary Nguanya Foday from the African Development Bank noted that skills development is very crucial for private sector development and women’s empowerment. “There are lots of opportunities in the private sector, but what is needed is the skill,” she maintained. She further called on women to be ready to start before seeking support.

Chief Executive Officer of Susue Consulting, Naasu Fofanah, urged UN Women to build strong partnerships with commercial institutions with a special focus on the interest rates for women led businesses (both micro and macro).

President of the Market Women Association, Haja-Marie Bob Kandeh, said she looks forward to a sustained partnership between UN Women and Market Women.

She revealed that cross border traders are challenged with ware houses and urged women to venture into agriculture despite the fact that there is also a huge challenge (deforestation) in that area.

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