In a recent press conference, Solomon Jamiru, Esq., the Press Secretary of Sierra Leone, addressed the widely discussed issue of the US Visa Restriction on Sierra Leone.
Mr. Jamiru emphasized that both the government and various sectors of the country are deeply displeased with the situation and are actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to find a resolution.
During the conference, he highlighted Sierra Leone’s credible institutions, which have consistently maintained their integrity while carrying out their duties. Mr. Jamiru firmly stated that the responsibility for the Visa Restriction action lies squarely with the US government.
“These are actions from the US government, so maybe the less we speak about it, the better we would be able to clarify why this has occurred,” he stated. He added that Sierra Leone’s government cannot clarify on behalf of the US government but can only express Sierra Leone’s position on the matter.
Mr. Jamiru revealed that the government of Sierra Leone, especially President Julius Maada Bio, has been engaged in continuous discussions with the US government even before the Visa Restriction situation arose.
He stressed that no government in the world would be happy with a travel ban, and Sierra Leoneans should reflect on the government’s efforts to maintain strong multilateral relationships, protect the country’s image, and attract investors.
He assured the public that the government is always ready to engage with their counterparts to expedite a review of the decision.
Mr. Jamiru conveyed that the government is actively working towards implementing actions that benefit the citizens and that the Visa Restriction issue is currently under discussion and may soon be resolved.
“As a government, we have comprehensively engaged with various sectors, and we intend to continue these discussions to ensure that this decision is reversed. We will not cease our efforts to resolve this matter,” he concluded.