By Chernor Alimamy Kamara
Democracy Network (DemNet), a network of civil society activists and media practitioners, as well as a Consortium of Civil Society Organisation in the country have expressed strong concerns over the November 26 shootings by unknown gunmen in the morning hours of Sunday.
DemNet condemned the disturbances in Freetown which it said was a well-orchestrated attempt to hijack the military armory in Wilberforce, although they said they still do not have clear information on the perpetrators.
It pointed out that the Violence spread from Wilberforce to Congo Cross, the Pademba Road maximum prison, and the female correctional centre with inmates seen in verified videos on social media walking the streets of Freetown, including the famous musician “LAJ.” It noted that the release of the prisoners took place in broad daylight, such that Sierra Leoneans were terrified.
The government was urged to calm the situation by keeping the people informed. Support was also given for the proclamation of a nationwide curfew and recognition of efforts by the military and the police in making arrests. It urged the general public to remain calm and stay safe at home, and to be wary of misinformation on social media.
On the part of the consortium of civil society organisations that include Human Rights Defenders, 50/50, Institute for Governance Reform, Fambul Tok and Amnesty International, they said the Sunday incident was that ‘’individuals or groups have embraced violence and intolerance as a major strategy to achieve unknown agendas’’.
“As Sierra Leoneans, we cannot be neutral when civic space and the peace of our country are under threat”, the statement continued. Citizens were urged to remain peaceful and to support ongoing efforts to clamp down on those who attempted ‘’to plunge our country into chaos’’
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in a public notice strongly supports President Bio in his call for national unity and urges all Sierra Leoneans to set aside their differences and work together. They honoured and remembered those who gave their lives in defense of Sierra Leone’s Constitution and government and call for those responsible for these heinous attacks to be held accountable in accordance with due process and the rule of law.
The Embassy praised leaders from across the political spectrum for their courage in speaking out against violence, and assured they will continue to work in partnership with the Government and the people of Sierra Leone to advance democracy, health, and prosperity.
We, the under-mentioned civil society organisations (CSOs), are deeply saddened by the horrifying attack on the peace of Sierra Leone on Sunday 26th November 2023. We are particularly appalled by the violent attack on and access to the armory at the Wilberforce Military Barack as well as the breach of the maximum security correctional centre by the assailants, resulting in the escape of thousands of prisoners. We deeply regret the death of men and women in uniform who stood firm to defend the State from a totally senseless attack
Copyright © 2023 Politico (01/12/23)
