Freetown, Sierra Leone – October 29, 2025: A coalition of prominent civil society organizations has sounded the alarm over what it describes as the growing politicization of Sierra Leone’s security forces, warning that recent political statements threaten the country’s hard-won peace and democratic stability.
In a strongly worded joint communiqué signed by eight leading organizations—including the 50/50 Group, Campaign for Good Governance (CGG), and the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ)—the coalition condemned remarks by both ruling and opposition politicians that they said could incite division and undermine public confidence in state security institutions.
The statement specifically criticized comments attributed to SLPP Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa, who allegedly hinted at possible military action against the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), as well as remarks by Opposition Whip Abdul Karim Kamara that invoked post-election conflict scenarios.
“Such inflammatory rhetoric is not only dangerous but erodes public trust in the neutrality and professionalism of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF),” the organizations stated.
“In a democracy, the security sector must remain neutral, apolitical, and under civilian control,” they added, citing Section 165(2) of the 1991 Constitution and regional principles such as the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and the African Charter on Democracy.
The coalition drew historical parallels to the 1991–2002 civil war, which claimed over 50,000 lives. They referenced findings from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), which identified political interference in the military as a key factor behind the conflict.
“Disregarding these lessons would betray the sacrifices of countless Sierra Leoneans who fought for peace and reconciliation,” the statement warned.
Beyond political concerns, the groups urged national leaders to redirect their focus toward development priorities, including education, job creation, and youth empowerment.
They also called on the Government and the RSLAF to publicly reaffirm their commitment to political neutrality and urged the Electoral Commission and Judiciary to ensure transparency and integrity in the upcoming 2028 elections.
The statement further appealed to international partners to closely monitor Sierra Leone’s democratic process and encouraged citizens and the media to resist divisive narratives.
Concluding their message, the coalition pledged to continue monitoring political developments, uphold institutional integrity, and foster dialogue and peacebuilding nationwide.
