Freetown, Sierra Leone – Dr. Samura Kamara, former presidential candidate of Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All Peoples Congress (APC), has voiced concerns over the mass deportation of Sierra Leoneans from neighboring Guinea.
In a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, Kamara urged both governments to address the crisis through dialogue and diplomacy.
“I am deeply concerned about the ongoing mass deportation of our brothers and sisters from our sister Republic of Guinea-Conakry,” he wrote. “I would like to urge both governments to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy to resolve this issue peacefully. Our shared history of cooperation and mutual respect must continue.”
Dr. Kamara called on the Guinean authorities to adhere to international standards and principles, emphasizing the long-standing relationship between the two nations.
“Our two nations have a long history of peaceful coexistence and the free movement of our people across borders. We must, therefore, work together to maintain this bond on the basis of our shared values of peace, cooperation, and human dignity. The ongoing deportation is a setback to these ideals,” he stated.
He also appealed to regional bodies such as the Mano River Union (MRU) and ECOWAS to uphold their protocols on free movement and regional integration.
“Let’s reaffirm our commitment to regional integration, the well-being of our citizens, and their free movement across the borders of the Mano River Union and the wider ECOWAS while applying agreed protocols.”
Acknowledging Guinea’s sovereignty, Dr. Kamara urged for compassion and due process to be observed. “While respecting Guinea’s sovereignty, I strongly appeal to the Guinean authorities to demonstrate compassion. Due process must also be afforded to those facing deportation, in line with the principles of justice and human rights.”
Concluding his statement, Dr. Kamara emphasized the need for both governments to act in the spirit of humanity and solidarity.
“Our shared humanity and regional solidarity demand that the two governments work together to address this crisis compassionately. Let us be guided by empathy and justice as we seek sustainable solutions for these affected families.”
The deportation crisis has sparked widespread concern among Sierra Leoneans, with many calling for immediate government intervention to address the plight of affected citizens.
