By Foday Moriba Conteh
A prominent humanitarian advocate known for his tireless efforts to support critically ill children in Sierra Leone is facing intimidation and harassment from political figures and law enforcement authorities.
The situation arose after Ishmeal Alfred Charles publicly urged President Julius Maada Bio and his family to utilize local hospitals, arguing that their patronage would help improve confidence in the country’s healthcare system and encourage much-needed investment in medical infrastructure.
Charles, a former child soldier turned humanitarian, has dedicated his life to assisting vulnerable children in need. He has successfully supported over 219 critically ill children from impoverished backgrounds, many of whom required expensive medical treatment abroad. In some cases, life-saving surgeries—such as those for congenital heart disease—can cost up to $15,000, often requiring travel to India.
To fund these critical medical procedures, Charles has organized street fundraising activities, television appeals, and social media campaigns, rallying support from compassionate members of the public.
However, his recent advocacy for the President and First Lady to rely on Sierra Leone’s healthcare facilities has reportedly angered some political stakeholders. One such individual allegedly reported Charles to the police, accusing him of inciting public dissent against the government.
Charles maintains that if the First Family were to depend on local hospitals, it would not only boost confidence in the healthcare system but also motivate health professionals and the Ministry of Health to further enhance service delivery.
Despite his noble intentions, Charles found himself at the center of controversy when he was summoned by the police, where he faced intimidation and threats linked to his advocacy work. In a recent interview, he reaffirmed his determination to continue his humanitarian mission, stating: “My advocacy is about doing what is right and serving humanity. My only aim is to help improve the lives of the people in my country.”
The situation has sparked concern over the state of political freedom and the safety of activists in Sierra Leone. Many fear that intimidation faced by Charles could discourage others from speaking out on critical national issues affecting the most vulnerable.
As the story unfolds, Ishmeal Alfred Charles remains resolute in his mission to advocate for better healthcare for Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable citizens, undeterred by the political pressure he faces.
