The Sierra Leone Government is currently confronted with the twin challenge of ending Covid-19 transmission and ensuring peace and order. Both seem to be arduous tasks, especially given the recent spate of violence in the country. As of 13th May, 2020, the country has recorded 387 confirmed Corona virus case, 21 deaths, and nearly 1700 persons held in quarantine centres. Amidst efforts to slow down the spread of the violence, we have witnessed a spate of violence in the last couple of weeks. In this position paper, the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law condemns violence as a criminal and unacceptable conduct, stating that it must be punished by all means. The president recently addressed the nation; arrests have been made in respect of the recent acts of violence, and some changes in the security sector are underway. We note that these steps may be helpful, but they will not, without more, address the key governance and rule of law challenges confronting the country.
The government cannot use a single-dimensional approach to addressing the problem of violence in the country. It has to lead in an inclusive and people-centred fashion, and broaden the space for dialogue with the opposition. There is need for good leadership across the board, including at the level of the justice sector and political parties. Our challenges cannot be wished away or ignored; otherwise, efforts at reconciliation may be undermined and potentially make the 2023 elections more violent. We have made a number of recommendations, including, the need for His Excellency to expand – rather than constrict – the space for dialogue with the main opposition. “Do not shut the door on dialogue”, we appeal. The spirit and objectives of Bintumani 3 must be kept alive. We note that whilst the President’s speech on 9th May was partly meant to send a strong message to those who participate in or sponsor violence, its accusatory tone may have further deepened the suspicion between the government and the main opposition APC. Read the full text of the position paper here…
