By Chernor Alimamy Kamara
The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) through its Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has arrested Abdul Kadiru Kaikai for an incendiary statement he made through a social media video that if he does not become President in 2028, he will mastermind and bring war to Sierra Leone.
Kaikai was seen with some supporters in the video where he emphasized that the war he will bring into the country “will be far worse than anybody is expecting. I am well prepared and had well prepared and had even budgeted for it. To bring war in Sierra Leone, one only needs 3.3 million United States dollars and I will start at Masiaka.”
Given the seriousness of the statement and its effect on national safety and security, the CID has initiated an investigation concerning the video in circulation on social media and taken Kaikai into custody.
A press statement from the Police issued on the 19th July, 2024 stated that the investigation seeks to ascertain the veracity of the statement Kaikai made in the video and his intent and motive.
Also, the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) in a press release unequivocally condemned the statement made by Kaikai. It noted that Kaikai’s statement was not only deeply irresponsible,but a significant threat to the peace and stability of the nation.
“Such incendiary rhetoric is entirely unacceptable and stands in stark opposition to the values of peace, unity and democratic principles that we as a nation hold dear,” ICPNC statement reads.
The ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in a press release on the 19th July, 2024 regarding the same video said it was a “reckless and dangerous statement as it does not represent the views and aspirations of members of the party,”- Kaikai was said to be member of the party.
“Threats of violence and war have no place in a civilized and democratic society and must be unequivocally denounced. The safety and security of our citizens are of utmost importance to the SLPP, and any attempt to disrupt peace and stability will not be tolerated,” part of the release reads.
The party said it stands firm in its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the well-being of the nation, reminding all Sierra Leoneans of the tremendous role it had played in bringing peace back to the country.
It stated that comments from individuals like Kaikai should have no space in the politics of a nation. In this regard, the leadership of the SLPP has resolved to suspend the membership of Kadiru Kaikai with immediate effect pending the outcome of disciplinary hearing for further action.
The SLPP also advised all party executives in Sierra Leone to dissociate themselves from Kaikai and all his activities and that any “attempt by Kaikai to use the name of the party and make a statement in any public forum will be met with very serious legal actions.”
The party says it stands with all Sierra Leoneans against any form of violence and extremism and remain vigilant in safeguarding the nation’s peace and security. It also remind all party members that this is not a time for party election politics and urged all its members to support the movement on the delivery of its National Development Plan.
Copyright © 2024 Politico (22/07/24)
