In a solemn address to the nation, Former Chairman of the NPRC, Captain Valentine Strasser, expressed deep disappointment and concern over the recent failed coup attempt that unfolded on November 26th.
Reflecting on his own experience leading the NPRC coup in 1992, Strasser strongly condemned such actions, emphasizing the potential for chaos, violence, and instability that coups can inflict on a nation.
“This attempted coup poses a serious threat to the hard-earned peace and progress Sierra Leone has achieved over the years,” stated Captain Strasser.
He underscored the severe consequences a coup inflicts on democracy, eroding trust in institutions and disrupting the lives of citizens.
Urging unity and vigilance, Strasser called for support of ongoing investigations to ensure those responsible face justice.
“I stand with the government, security forces, and our people in condemning this failed coup attempt,” declared Captain Strasser, emphasizing the need to uphold the rule of law and protect democratic values.
He urged Sierra Leoneans to remain calm, vigilant, and united, highlighting the importance of learning from the past to build a future where political disagreements are resolved through peaceful means.
Captain Strasser’s message encouraged national unity, civic education, and active citizen participation in the democratic process. “Together, we can overcome this setback and continue our journey towards peace, stability, and prosperity,” he affirmed, concluding with a call to safeguard Sierra Leone’s brighter future for generations to come.
Read Captain Valentine Strasser’s full address below:
“Fellow Sierra Leoneans,
It is with great disappointment and concern that I addressed you today regarding the failed coup attempt that took place on November 26th. As someone who has experienced the consequences and devastation caused by a coup, I feel compelled to speak out against such actions and condemn them in the strongest possible terms.
Having led the NPRC coup on April 29th, 1992, I understand the chaos, violence, and instability that a coup can bring upon a nation. It is a dark chapter in our history that we should strive to overcome and never repeat. The attempted coup on November 26th represents a threat to the hard-earned peace and progress that Sierra Leone has achieved over the years.
A coup undermines the foundations of democracy, erodes trust in our institutions, and disrupts the lives of ordinary citizens. It tears apart the fabric of our society and jeopardizes the future of our beloved nation. We can not allow such reckless actions to go unpunished or unchecked.
I stand with the government, the security forces, and our people in condemning this failed coup attempt. We must come together as a nation to support the ongoing investigations and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. It is crucial that we maintain the rule of law and protect the democratic values that we have fought so hard to uphold.
I call upon all Sierra Leoneans to remain calm, vigilant, and united during this challenging time. Let us not allow this incident to divide us or create unnecessary fear and anxiety. Instead, let it serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding our democracy and working together to build a stronger and more prosperous Sierra Leone.
We must learn from our past and strive for a future where political disagreements are resolved through peaceful means, dialogue, and respect for the rule of law. Let us focus on fostering national unity, promoting civic education, and empowering our citizens to actively participate in the democratic process.
Together, we can overcome this setback and continue our journey towards peace, stability, and prosperity. Sierra Leone deserves a brighter future, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that we protect and preserve it for generations to come.
May God bless Sierra Leone and guide us in the path of peace and progress.”
