By Francess Wright
In August 2022, violent protests and riots erupted in Sierra Leone, engulfing the capital, Freetown and several northern cities, including Makeni and Kamakwie. Sparked by mounting frustrations over the skyrocketing cost of living, inflation and economic hardship, the unrest led to a nationwide curfew and a significant loss of life. By the time order was restored, at least twenty-seven civilians and six police officers had been killed, while 515 individuals had been arrested in connection with the violence, including cases of riotous conduct, arson and curfew violations.https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/six-police-officers-killed-sierra-leone-protests-police-head-2022-08-11/
In the wake of these events, one of this medium’s ace reporters, Alvin Lansana Kargbo, embarked on an exhaustive investigation into the underlying causes of the unrest. Through objective interviews and on-the-ground reporting, he uncovered a deeper narrative of economic despair, political discontent and the role of key figures in mobilizing demonstrators. Among the many individuals implicated in the unrest, the name of Osman Tholley surfaced repeatedly.https://www.france24.com/en/video/20220811-sierra-leone-imposes-curfew-as-anti-government-protests-turn-deadly
According to sources close to him, Osman Tholley was a well-known community activist and businessman, highly respected for his leadership and advocacy. Originally from Makeni, he had relocated to Freetown, settling at 14F Koroma Street in Calaba Town. His uncle, who spoke candidly with Alvin Lansana Kargbo described him as a passionate figure who fearlessly championed the concerns of the people, particularly the soaring costs of essential goods and services. He had become increasingly vocal about Government shortcomings, urging young people in his community to demand reforms and accountability.
On August 10, 2022, Osman Tholley allegedly played a pivotal role in galvanizing demonstrators in the eastern part of Freetown. Gathering a sizable crowd, he led a protest march from Calaba Town to Wellington, primarily within the Congo Water community, where tensions escalated. During the demonstration, a tragic incident occurred; a police officer on a motorcycle was killed amid the chaos. The situation rapidly spiraled out of control as security forces clashed with protestors, leading to further casualties and destruction.
In the aftermath, the Sierra Leone Police launched an aggressive manhunt for Osman Tholley, who was declared wanted on charges of riotous conduct, assault and murder. Authorities publicly urged citizens to report any sightings of him, providing contact details for law enforcement agencies. A warrant for his arrest was issued by a Magistrate Court on Pademba Road, mandating his immediate appearance before the Judiciary. However, since the crackdown, Osman Tholley has gone underground, his whereabouts remaining unknown.
The protests exposed deep-seated grievances within Sierra Leonean society, revealing a population grappling with economic hardship and a perceived lack of Governmental support. Inflation had soared to 28% by June 2022, exacerbated by global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Fuel prices had surged and essential commodities became increasingly unaffordable, pushing many to the brink of desperation.
While the Government condemned the protests, labelling them as acts of insurrection aimed at toppling a democratically elected administration, human rights organizations such as Amnesty International have demanded accountability for the heavy-handed response.
As the country moves forward, the legacy of the August 2022 protests remains a stark reminder of the fragile balance between governance, economic stability, and public unrest.
