The Shadows of Corruption: A Diplomatic Passport Scandal and the Silence of Power

The recent revelations concerning diplomatic passports, alleged drug trafficking connections in Turkey, and the deafening silence from our government compel us to speak truth to power with unwavering clarity.

Let us begin with a question that haunts the conscience of every honest Sierra Leonean: How does a man who accepted three brand-new jeeps as gifts become the guardian of our nation's drug enforcement efforts? This is not merely a matter of poor judgment; it is a betrayal of the public trust so profound that it 'shakes the very foundations of institutional integrity.'

When the Parliamentary Select Committee approved this appointment despite such glaring ethical concerns, they did not simply make an error. They made a choice. They chose expediency over excellence, personal loyalty over public service, and in doing so, they opened wide the floodgates through which corruption now flows freely across our land.

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Most Read from YAME Digital: SIERRA LEONE

Henry Leijdekkers, Brother of the Netherlands Fugitive Drug Kingpin Jos Leijdekkers, Recaptured

Turkish authorities released photos of Alleged Abdullah Alp Üstün and drug organized crime group member Hasan Lala, who were captured in the United Arab Emirates with Sierra Leone Diplomatic passports, according to sources.

READ

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The consequences of this moral failure are now painfully evident.

Drugs proliferate in our communities like weeds in an untended garden, poisoning our youth, destroying families, and undermining the social fabric that holds our society together. We must ask ourselves: Is this a coincidence, or is this a consequence?

Video Courtesy: KUSH victims' death en de homeless na salone den dae put de body na resbag en lef na treet lek die-dog. Sad state!

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Now comes news even more disturbing, news that connects the dots between diplomatic privilege and international drug cartels.

Reports have emerged from Turkey alleging that a Sierra Leone diplomatic passport was involved in a cocaine trafficking operation, which reportedly involves family members of the highest office in our country.

The specifics of these allegations are serious enough to warrant immediate, transparent investigation.

Yet what do we hear from our government? Silence.

The same administration that celebrated with such theatrical exuberance when securing international funding now retreats into the shadows when accountability comes knocking at their door.

This silence is not golden. It is cowardly.

It is the silence of those who have much to hide and little courage to face the truth.

Instead of forthright leadership, we are subjected to a parade of government propagandists, those willing mouthpieces of power who rush before the cameras with denials that reek of desperation.

These are not journalists seeking truth; they are mercenaries selling their integrity for a paycheck. The recent revelation that the Chief Minister and Solicitor General paid office rent for a sympathetic media outlet in London merely confirms what discerning citizens have long suspected: much of what passes for news in support of this government is nothing more than purchased propaganda.

How tragically ironic that this payment itself became news, thereby exposing the very machinery of deception it was meant to fuel. In their attempt to manipulate public perception, they have instead revealed their methodology. The public now sees clearly that they are being lied to systematically, deliberately, and with government funding.

The credibility of our Immigration office lies in ruins.

If gifts of luxury vehicles can purchase the favor of those charged with protecting our borders, what else might be bought?

Who else has been compromised? How many diplomatic passports have been issued not in the service of our national interest, but in the service of criminal enterprises?

These questions demand answers, yet we hear only evasion and excuses.

The Foreign Minister’s response to these allegations epitomizes the doublespeak that has become the trademark of this administration.

He declares the Turkish reports to be false, yet simultaneously announces an investigation to determine their veracity. This is not leadership; this is linguistic gymnastics designed to confuse rather than clarify, to obscure rather than illuminate.

The Foreign Minister’s response to these allegations epitomizes the doublespeak that has become the trademark of this administration. He declares the Turkish reports to be false, yet simultaneously announces an investigation to determine their veracity. This is not leadership; this is linguistic gymnastics designed to confuse rather than clarify, to obscure rather than illuminate.

Let us speak plainly.

You cannot simultaneously dismiss allegations as lies while investigating whether they are true. Such contradictory statements insult the intelligence of the Sierra Leonean people and reveal a government more concerned with public relations than public service.

The people of Sierra Leone have a fundamental right to know the truth. We have a right to know if our diplomatic credentials are being exploited by criminal networks. We have a right to know if corruption has infected our immigration services. We have a right to know if those in positions of power are using their influence to shield wrongdoers from justice. And we have a right to demand that our government answer these questions with honesty, transparency, and urgency.

Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

When corruption is allowed to thrive in the highest offices, it spreads throughout society, normalizing dishonesty and rewarding unscrupulous individuals. When those responsible for enforcing the law act unlawfully, the entire social contract breaks down. When government officials accept bribes disguised as gifts, they not only compromise their own integrity but also undermine the nation's values.

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Most Read from YAME Digital: SIERRA LEONE

Sierra Leone: When the Head of the Fish Rotten, the Whole Body Spoils

Sierra Leone stands as a tragic masterpiece in the gallery of failed governance—a living proverb of what happens when the head of the fish is rotten and the rot infects every organ, fin, and scale of national life.

READ

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The time for silence has passed. The time for excuses has expired. The time for accountability has arrived.

We call upon every institution of civil society, every independent journalist, every religious leader, every educator, and every ordinary citizen who loves this country to demand answers. We call upon the international community to assist in uncovering the truth about these allegations. We call upon the conscience of every government official who still possesses one to speak out against the corruption that threatens to consume our nation.

History will judge us not by the challenges we faced, but by how we responded to them.

Will we be remembered as the generation that stood silent while our institutions crumbled? Or will we be remembered as those who found the courage to demand better, to fight for justice, and to hold power accountable?

The choice is ours. The moment is now. And the world is watching.

An Editorial: Culled ©️

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School Celebration Outdoing Each Other in Good Works

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Ponder My Thoughts by Andrew Keili

“Sierra Leone will thrive when we care for her as much as we care for our alma mater.”

— Source: Basita Michael

“And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.”

— Hebrews 10:24

A new phenomenon has emerged in Freetown — The School Thanksgiving Celebration.

Well, actually, it is not new but is a lot more noticeable now that march-pasts of Secondary schools have become a source of intense rivalry, especially between very old schools that boast of a rich history.

We witnessed Annie Walsh celebrate a milestone anniversary last year. Many say they set the gold standard that will be hard to match. The success of the fundraising with jaw-dropping amounts collected, pomp and pageantry, and the many innovations put other pretenders in “panic mode”.

Not to be deterred, Methodist Girls’ High School (MGHS) also “performed” admirably but found it difficult to surpass Annie Walsh.

Another famous Boys’ school (call name nor mix!) tried to raise the bar, which they did quite successfully, except for slight problems caused by some of the purple blazers having running colours under the rains and staining the white trousers of some unfortunate old boys.

We have had our recent rivalry between the Sierra Leone Grammar School (SLGS) and the Prince of Wales (POW) School.

A brief history of these schools is in place.

The Sierra Leone Grammar School was founded on 25th March 1845 as the Church Missionary Society (CMS). Grammar, the first secondary school in Sub-Saharan Africa. Fourteen students from the Fourah Bay College Christian Institute were transferred as pioneer students to begin the school at Regent Square.

Of the fourteen boys, five were from Mende land, three from Kissy Village, two from Regent, one from Kent, one from Port Loko, and two from Freetown.

They offered English Grammar and composition, Greek, Geography, Astronomy, Mathematics, Bible History, and English History. Writing, Music, Recreation, and the Church’s 39 articles. Later, Euclid, Algebra, and Latin, a voluntary class subject, were added. In 1962, the school moved to the present site at Murray Town.

The SLGS in its early days produced clergyman, school masters, tradesmen, clerks, etc., to serve the needs of not only Sierra Leone but West Africa.

The Prince of Wales School was initially known as the Government Secondary School.

On the 5th of April 1925, the Prince of Wales arrived in Freetown on the HMS Hood. He named the school, THE PRINCE OF WALES SCHOOL, and stated that the Foundation Day of the School would be the 6th of April.

The site had formerly been owned by the Sierra Leone Coaling Company and used as a Coaling Station that had its own jetty at the back of the main building.

The school was founded to foster science education and studies in modern languages in Sierra Leone.

Grammar school had its Thanksgiving service at Saint George’s Cathedral. Older alumni were required to board specially emblazoned white “kekehs,” but many refused the offer and chose to march. March, they did, and if rumour is to be believed, there were lots of aching bones and brisk sales of arthritis pills at pharmacies. It is heartening to note that the school dedicated a plaque to the memory of the founding students.

Despite the successful march past, there were still a few snafus. Their school ties, which had been specially ordered for the occasion, did not arrive on time, and many were forced either to use their old ties or look for alternatives in the Pultney Street “jongs market”, no doubt taking a quick glance around to ensure they were not spotted.

One Grammar school boy told me about what went wrong- “We ordered the ties on time, but an old boy who is an expert in Critical Path Analysis got his sums wrong and the ties landed on the wrong continent. Anyway, we will keep them for the next anniversary.” They say ‘misery likes company’ and even those who, because of climate change (making it rain when it was not its season), had their purple coats stain their white trousers could be seen chuckling.

The Prince of Wales’ occasion went like clockwork. They had Christian and Muslim worship services and also marched through the streets of Freetown.

They went the extra mile to be different. They planned on having a lion from the Mara Park in Kenya. This idea was floated around for some time until Mara Park put out a press release to the contrary, and our ever-vigilant police, adept at snuffing out illegal demonstrations, were quick to put out an “absolutely no marching lions” press release. Even without the lion, they looked majestic in their uniforms, and their march past attracted the largest number of onlookers.

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Most Read from YAME Digital: 

The Prince of Wales School Celebrates 100 Years of Excellence

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The long convoy had a couple of “dignified” Wrangler Jeeps (a sharp contrast to the Grammar School Kekehs).

There was just one tiny flaw. One of the Wrangler jeeps—a green one nearly caught fire and attracted quite some attention.

Detractors said their plan to “suffer posh” had come unstuck.

POW alumni accused a garage owned by a Grammar School alumnus of “fixing” the car. One feature different from other schools was the number of politicians—potential flagbearers, and other political apparatchiks that were present.

The Chief Minister, Dr. Sengeh, Dr. Sylvia Blyden, Adi Macauley, Mohamed Kamara aka Jagaban, Dr. Sama Banya, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyer (a Conventonian- watcha going on?) were amongst those present.

People who were thought to be at odds with each other were now united in the pursuit of one goal- supporting their alma mater.

This gives true meaning to the biblical saying - “The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat …” (Isaiah 11:6).

This utopian harmony could only have been possible because of their affinity to their alma mater.

A laudable feature of both of these schools is the school song.

The chorus in the Grammar school song is indeed endearing and we (yes, we! That’s another pondering) Grammar school boys sing it with such gusto: “Live forever, Sundered never, Faltering never…”

Never mind that many students have not bothered to find out the meaning of sundered! The very poetic Verse 4 illustrates they did not just attend the Grammar school for academic learning,

“Oh! tis not the nerve or sinew or learning store alone

That the school upon her sons bestow, which stamps them for her own.”

The chorus in the POW song is:

"For searching Sierra Leone far and wide, no school can well be found that sends forth truer gentlemen or stands on firmer ground."

As someone remarked- “Many of those “searching Sierra Leone” have not gone far beyond Kingtom-not even as far as Waterloo to declare their school as the best school in Sierra Leone. And I hope by “firmer ground” they are being metaphorical about academic grounding and not the physical ground which is constantly washing away as the sea threatens to engulf this citadel of learning.”

The fourth verse of the POW school song, introduced by the late principal, William J. Davies, in 1936, perhaps best illustrates why it is essential for alumni to meet occasionally:

“Though scattered far, we seldom meet the friends our boyhood knew, Old joys and griefs in memory dwell, toned down to sober hue, And as some well-remembered name grows great, we glow with pride, To think that in our youthful days, we struggled at his side.”

Poetic, veritable words of wisdom! Na buk man den dis bobs!

But let’s get back to the celebrations and decide who won. Some people have endeavoured to list down some metrics for comparison. One of these included attire, processional orderliness, big guns, most popular with the ladies, onlookers, and crowd attendance, and religious diversity, but some of these, especially the last one, would unfairly favour only one school.

Grammar school’s case was messed up a bit by a present-day student, who remarked about the celebrations: “E nor fine sef.”

He obviously came in for some roasting. What was he expecting? A plate of rice to be served to all students? The way Hassan Harouni described the POW occasion, one would be tempted to award them the winner’s prize- “Elderly Princewaleans holding court in swanky vehicles like royalty”, “trumpets, trombones, snares and tubas all blending into a majestic sonic bouquet.” But then he is an alumnus and may not be dispassionate.

Asmaa James gave it to Grammar school for “orderliness, comportment and neatness”, and added: “The use of kekehs was more creative than Wranglers.” But then she is an Annie Walsh alumnus (Anglican school) married to a Bo school boy (You can never know about the Bo school motive)!

A Grammar school alumnus described the hype around the POW celebrations as fake- “Promising to bring along the King of England, Wrangler with no fuel and the fake lion proves my case.” He continued- “When small boys are planning (80 years age difference), they must involve their elders.

POW now stands for “Push overheated Wrangler.” Ouch! This hurts!

The Police also came in for some roasting for not warning the public about the infamous Grammar school fireworks at Youyi building, which were mistaken for gunshots. I will be diplomatic with my overall verdict—Na draw game!

Grammar school and POW are done for this year, and we will prepare for the next milestone celebrations. Other schools will continue in their footsteps, and the healthy rivalry will continue to the benefit of not only the alumni but the schools.

The concept of "outdoing each other in good works" will continue encouraging them to consider how they can stimulate one another toward love and good deeds. They will continue with selfless service and unwavering commitment to the well-being of students in these schools.

Long may these celebrations continue and let us as Sierra Leoneans endeavor to emulate these associations in our deeds in other spheres of life- especially the political sphere. Basita is right to note that “Sierra Leone will thrive when we care for her as much as we care for our alma mater.”

The Prince of Wales School Celebrates 100 Years of Excellence

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The Prince of Wales School in Freetown, Sierra Leone, was inaugurated by the then Prince of Wales on April 6, 1925. This prestigious institution was the first government secondary school in Freetown and the first in Sierra Leone to emphasize the teaching of Science and Mathematics. It attracted students not only from Sierra Leone but also from other West African countries.

The Prince of Wales School's bold attempt to feature a Live Lion in its Centenary Thanksgiving Anniversary has been denied by the Sierra Leone Police citing public safety.

Theme: ‘The King of Academic Jungle’

Drawing inspiration from the school motto ‘Forward’ and the Lion Crest, the Class of 2003 formally approached the Sierra Leone Police with an extreme proposal to import a Cape Lion (Panthera Leo Melanochaita) from the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Their vision was to have the lion, accompanied by four professional lion tamers, participate in the parade from Kissy Road to Kingtom on April 6th, which marks the 100th anniversary.

The Sierra Leone Police weren’t ready for the jungle to move into the Streets of Freetown. In a letter dated 29th March, the Inspector General’s Office denied the request, citing public safety.

Rival schools and critics soon begin trolling 'The Move' with memes on social media.

P.O.W Lion don loose oh, unu keych am ooh😃😃😃

Regardless!

The jubilee celebration reminds us of the enduring bonds forged over 100 years of academic excellence.

“Series of Events ”

— Source

“Princewaleans and partners visiting the historic Bunce Island Slave Castle.”

— 8 April, 2025

“The Prince of Wales School Freetown, CENTENARY THANKSGIVING SERVICE 2025.”

— 6 April, 2025

Thanksgiving Service

Time: April 6, 2025, 1:00 PM Freetown Time Zone | 09:00 AM USA /Eastern (New York) /Maryland | 2:00 PM United Kingdom /BST (London)

Please click 'Join Thanksgiving Service’

Meeting ID: 897 7262 9180 | Passcode: 536992

The Prince of Wales Thanksgiving on Sunday, April 6, 2025. A cross-section of Prince Waleans at home and abroad

“Prince of Wales Muslim Service.”

— Source: Mosque

Princewalean Wives | Friends unique support

Thanksgiving Prep

FORWARD to POW

BuBu na de Dinner & Dance

Congratulations on the humorous perspective !

Congratulations on the humorous perspective of people 🤣

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POW Centenary Transition Walk

Model Junction to Prince of Wales, Kingtom. Re-enactment of the school move from Model School — FORWARD to POW!

Dinner & Dance — Celebrate 100 Years of Prince of Wales School

The Princewalean: 100 Years of Excellence

The official launch will be on 1 April 2025 on Amazon! A collection of essays and articles, primarily composed of reminiscences and mostly authored by alumni, celebrates the achievements of principals, teachers, and distinguished graduates in various disciplines and sports. These writings also highlight the school's contribution to the development of Sierra Leone and West Africa.

Tap HERE to Get Your Copy on Amazon.

School Athletics: Handing prizes to donors and athletes

Theo Edwards for YAME Digital

This page will be continuously updated—please refresh later for more information.

We in Sierra Leone Have Become Completely 'Tonto,' Transitioning Into a Far More Dangerous Realm of Drug Trafficking

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“The U.S. State Department has classified Sierra Leone as a drug transshipment country. According to reports from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Sierra Leone is used as a key transit hub for international drug trafficking, particularly for cocaine moved from South America and Asia to Europe, and to a lesser extent, the United States. The country faces significant challenges with drug trafficking and money laundering, compounded by pervasive corruption and weak law enforcement, making it a critical node in global drug transit routes.”

— Source

Sierra Leone's enduring struggles are rooted in a long and troubled history that stretches back centuries. From the oppressive grip of colonialism to the challenges of post-independence, leaders have continuously twisted the truth to advance their agendas. This betrayal has not only persisted but has become entrenched within the very institutions of the country. Each institution—political, judicial, or administrative—harbors its own set of moles that undermine the system.

2025 World Happiness Report Sierra Leone is 146 in 147 countries - see page 21 (we managed to best Afghanistan). How SAD!! https://t.co/1IgzpsDhly

No surprises. Politicians don't have solutions to the problems, and they don't want to admit what they and everyone else knows.

— Yame.space (@SpaceYame) March 21, 2025

These agents of deceit ensure that the truth is buried beneath layers of bureaucratic confusion, feeding the public a steady diet of misinformation.

We have gone totally ‘Tonto.’

Often referred to as the ‘Athens of Africa,’ Sierra Leone is a land rich in potential, boasting 44 minerals containing rare earth elements, arable land, fertile soil, predictable weather, and a rich cultural heritage. However, behind this impressive façade, the country's elites have inflicted significant damage on both the nation and its economy. As a result, we have completely lost our way.

Beautiful beyond description
But......alas racked with extreme poverty hunger pain heartache drug abuse corruption water shortages no electricity
#Salone pic.twitter.com/e02GwoQT2B

— NyamakoroSilla (@toubuya) April 8, 2025

Sixty-four years after our country's independence from the British on April 27, 1961, our country still struggles to find a path toward prosperity. While other African nations have made significant progress despite facing similar historical circumstances, we now find ourselves in an even more precarious situation.

Graduating instead to a much more dangerous territory of international drug trafficking.

‘The entanglement of political figures, security forces, and administrative officials with narcotics traffickers has not only facilitated the cartel’s operations but has also eroded public trust in democratic governance and jeopardized both national and international security.’

“We have completely gone ‘Tonto.’”

— Theo Edwards

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“SIERRA LEONE: COCAINE CARTELS AND THE RISE OF STATE CAPTURE”

— Source

Sierra Leone has come under renewed scrutiny as a key transit hub for international drug trafficking. A damning report by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs underscores the extent of the crisis, stating that "drug trafficking and money laundering remain prevalent, with the country being used as a transshipment point from South America and Asia to Europe, and, to a lesser extent, the United States." The report further highlights that corruption is a “pervasive problem in Sierra Leone that compromises citizen access to basic public services and institutions such as health, education, and the police. The criminal justice system is inefficient and backlogged.” ( Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs: Sierra Leone Summary - United States Department of State)

Escalating role in global drug trade

Sierra Leone has become a critical hub in international cocaine trafficking, with increasing seizures and arrests linked to the country. The World Drug Report 2023 identified eight African nations as emerging markets for the cocaine trade between 2019 and 2022. Among them, Sierra Leone stands out, with record drug seizures in 2021. —page160: WDR23_B3_CH8.pdf.

The country’s role in the global narcotics trade became even more evident when Belgian authorities traced the second-largest shipment of cocaine entering their ports to Sierra Leone, seizing six tons of the illicit substance in 2024. (Big Drop In Drug Seizures At Belgium Mega Port As Latam Busts Soar - Barron's)

Cocaine seizures

The increasing use of West African maritime routes by traffickers is exemplified by a significant drug interception in November 2022. The French Navy, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies from Brazil, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, intercepted a Brazilian tugboat 400 miles off the coast of Sierra Leone. The vessel, under surveillance since its departure from Brazil, was carrying over 4.6 tons of cocaine worth approximately €150 million (US$157.8 million). If distributed in the UK, authorities estimate the drugs could have generated more than £300 million (US$366.4 million) in criminal profits. (French Navy Seizes 4.6 Tons of Cocaine from Brazilian Tugboat | OCCRP)

(The French Navy)

Sierra Leone's link to the global cocaine trade has been further reinforced by multiple arrests involving traffickers with ties to the country

On January 9, 2025, Joy Gulmatico, a 29-year-old Filipina, was apprehended at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport attempting to smuggle 4.57 kg of cocaine worth PHP 24.2 million ($416,240). She had travelled from Sierra Leone via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. (Filipina traveler caught with P24-M cocaine at NAIA | Philippine News Agency)

On 17 January 2025, in Mumbai, India, authorities arrested Thoma Mendy, a 40-year-old Senegalese national, for smuggling 2.6 kg of cocaine valued at ₹26.62 crore ($3 million). Mendy admitted he had received the drugs at a hotel in Sierra Leone before embarking on his journey. (Mumbai: DRI Arrests 40-Year-Old Senegal National For Smuggling Cocaine Worth ₹26.62 Crore At CSMIA; Reveals Syndicate Ties)

On 8 February 2025, the authorities in Liberia seized a “shipment of 234 kg of cocaine at Bo Waterside, a key border crossing with Sierra Leone.” (Liberia’s Growing Drug Crisis: Weak Justice System Turning Nation into Traffickers’ Haven - FrontPageAfrica)

In May 2022, a major cocaine seizure occurred in Burkina Faso, where 115 kg of the drug was discovered in a vehicle that had originated in Sierra Leone before crossing through Guinea and Mali en route to Ghana. (See page 14: TOCTA_Sahel_drugs.pdf)

High-profile UK smuggling operation

One of the most striking cases implicating Sierra Leone in global drug trafficking occurred in June 2022. The UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) intercepted a Merseyside-based organized crime syndicate attempting to smuggle 1.3 tonnes of cocaine into the UK. The drugs, concealed within a shipment of garri flour from Freetown, had an estimated street value of £140 million. The operation, codenamed "Lemonlike," identified Darren Schofield, also known as "Thor," as the ringleader. Six members of the gang were sentenced to a combined 75 years in prison in December 2024. ( Drugs boss set up front company for Amazon and Argos goods to smuggle cocaine worth £140m - National Crime Agency) (Thor' and his gang smuggled £140m of cocaine into the UK from Sierra Leone - Liverpool Echo)

Diplomatic controversy

On or about January 17, 2025, no fewer than seven suitcases filled with cocaine were discovered in a Sierra Leone embassy vehicle in Guinea, raising diplomatic and legal questions about official complicity in drug smuggling operations. (Sierra Leone: Suitcases of suspected cocaine found in embassy vehicle - BBC News) | (YAME Digital)

State capture

The Africa Confidential Special Report, titled "President Bio Keeps Cocaine Lord in the Family," Sierra-Leone-Cocaine-Lord-Special-Report-1.pdf provides compelling evidence of state capture in Sierra Leone by narcotics traffickers. The report details how Jos Leijdekkers (also known as Chubby Jos, Mocro Mafia Boss, Bellos Jos, and Omar Sheriff), a convicted Dutch cocaine kingpin, has infiltrated the highest levels of Sierra Leone's political and security structures. (Mafia boss 'Chubby Jos' tracked down after pics gave away location but shock twist means cops can't touch him…for now | The US Sun) He has effectively infiltrated and commandeered state institutions to serve the interests of his criminal enterprise. (YAME Digital)

In 2008, Sierra Leone’s state apparatus cooperated to ensure that those who flew a plane-load of cocaine into the country were apprehended and handed over to the United States. However, this remains the only instance where cocaine traffickers have been arrested with the collaboration of the Sierra Leonean government. Since then, the landscape has drastically changed, with mounting evidence that state institutions are now complicit in the drug trade rather than combating it.

Various investigative reports have exposed the cartel's deep political ties in Sierra Leone. Notably, Africa Confidential reveals that Leijdekkers, also known as Omar Sheriff, has a personal connection to the presidency, as he is romantically involved with Agnes Bio, the daughter of President Julius Maada Bio. Agnes Bio holds a diplomatic position at Sierra Leone’s Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, a role that grants her diplomatic immunity. This raises concerns that the cartel may be using diplomatic privileges to facilitate its operations under official cover.

Reports from Africa Confidential and other international sources indicate that Leijdekkers and his cartel have infiltrated Sierra Leone’s security forces, securing logistical support and protection for their smuggling operations.

This suggests a deliberate subversion of security institutions, prioritizing the interests of the cartel over national security.

The issuance of official documents to cartel members is another strong indicator of state capture. Both past and present Chief Immigration Officers have been implicated in providing passports to cartel operatives, enabling their unrestricted international movement. This abuse of authority demonstrates the cartel’s ability to manipulate immigration systems for illicit purposes.

Evidence has emerged that the Queen Elizabeth II Quay, also known as Deep Water Quay, has been used as a hub for massive cocaine shipments to Europe. Despite multiple cocaine seizures abroad linked to shipments from Sierra Leone, the Sierra Leone Police have taken no action, further signaling state complicity.

Despite overwhelming evidence of state institutions being exploited by the cartel, there have been no prosecutions. The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), which is empowered to initiate legal proceedings, has remained silent and inactive, suggesting either intimidation or collusion. The ACC’s failure to act reinforces the perception of a compromised justice system.

Money laundering and rapid asset accumulation by government officials have reached alarming levels. High-ranking officials, including the Chief Immigration Officer, have reportedly acquired multiple properties in the United States and elsewhere in quick succession. This sudden wealth accumulation abroad strongly indicates money laundering and illicit financial flows, further entrenching the cartel’s economic influence.

Conclusion

These indicators paint a clear picture of a criminal organization that has effectively captured state mechanisms, bending them to its will and undermining the rule of law. The entanglement of political figures, security forces, and administrative officials with narcotics traffickers has not only facilitated the cartel’s operations but has also eroded public trust in democratic governance and jeopardized both national and international security. Addressing this crisis requires urgent, coordinated action at both domestic and global levels to dismantle the cartel’s grip on state institutions and restore institutional integrity, justice, and accountability.

Abdoul Mahdieu Savage | Contact: Renewal News Network Limited | Send Email

RELATED

KARACHI: March 23, 2025: Pakistani authorities have intercepted an attempt to smuggle 5.6 million Tramadol Hydrochloride tablets, valued at Rs2.8 billion (US$10 million), disguised as a towel export to Sierra Leone.

The case follows a similar seizure last month, where 21.8 million Tramadol tablets and 7,000 capsules worth Rs10 billion were confiscated.

“Nations Committed to Security Stand Against Drug Trafficking!”

— Watch the Video

They go to great lengths to smuggle the drugs, only to be outsmarted by customs agents. Anyone considering the risks of drug dealing across borders should learn from this.

Oh, Sierra Leone, Your Children Cry Tonight

Oh, Sierra Leone, your children cry tonight, Through the echoes of war, we’ve lost our guiding light. Trafficking and drugs, tearing us apart, Where's the hope we had once, strong in every heart? They promised us a future, of peace and prosperity, But instead, they brought us chaos and misery. The streets once full of laughter, now shadowed with despair, Little ones are falling, does anybody care?

Oh Salone | Franklyn Bonnie Johnson-Williams

[Verse]

In the heart of West Africa, where the lion once roared, Eleven years of battle, left our spirits so sore. Now the wounds are open wide, facing new plight, With a reckless government's heedless flight.

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Netherland's Most Wanted Cocaine Kingpin Hiding in Sierra Leone

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[Chorus]

Oh, Sierra Leone, your children cry tonight, Through the echoes of war, we’ve lost our guiding light. Trafficking and drugs, tearing us apart, Where's the hope we had once, strong in every heart?

[Verse]

They promised us a future, of peace and prosperity, But instead, they brought us chaos and misery. The streets once full of laughter, now shadowed with despair, Little ones are falling, does anybody care?

RELATED

Sierra Leone: A Narco State and Distribution Hub. Mr. Alimamy Bangura, the ambassador to Guinea implicated in diplomatic missions' cocaine trafficking.

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[Chorus]

Oh, Sierra Leone, your children cry tonight, Through the echoes of war, we’ve lost our guiding light. Trafficking and drugs, tearing us apart, Where's the hope we had once, strong in every heart?

[Verse]

Mothers grieve in silence, and fathers lose their will, For every son and daughter, there's a battle uphill. We fight a different war now, against the darkness spread, As the soul of a nation battles for its bread.

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Sierra Leone: Small Country, Massive Suffering. Our so-called educated elite, leaders, traditional rulers, and religious figures have all become agents of our demise, poisoning the well of our collective aspirations. 

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[Chorus]

Oh, Sierra Leone, your children cry tonight, Through the echoes of war, we’ve lost our guiding light. Trafficking and drugs, tearing us apart, Where's the hope we had once, strong in every heart?

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RELATED

“Sierra Leone: Toxic components of the ‘KUSH’ drug identified.”

— UPDATED: FRANCE24 News | 27 March 2025

Transnational crime investigators have identified China, the Netherlands, and the UK as likely sources of the substances used to produce Kush, a highly addictive synthetic drug. This drug has claimed the lives of thousands in West Africa in an alarmingly short time. Kush first appeared in Sierra Leone in 2022, and recent testing has finally revealed the dangerous chemicals that make it so lethal.

Caitlin Kelly has more from Freetown.

Feel free to post your comments in the ‘Post Comment’ section.

Sherbro Alliance and Idris Elba’s Dream City in Sierra Leone

The Guardian newspaper reported that actor Idris Elba is working with his childhood friend to develop Sherbro Island, roughly the size of the Isle of Man. The West African nation [Sierra Leone] government gave the island enough autonomy to allow the work to advance as 'Dream City in Sierra Leone.'

This is not the end of the story

By Chernoh Alpha M. Bah | Africanist Press

A few months ago, the British media enthusiastically reported that “Idris Elba has shared details of his dream to turn an island off the coast of Sierra Leone, the country where his father was born, into an environmentally friendly smart city.“

The Guardian took the lead in the enthusiasm that surrounded the story. The newspaper specifically reported that “the actor [Idris Elba] is working with his childhood friend to develop Sherbro, which is roughly the size of the ‘Isle of Man’ after the island was given enough autonomy by the West African nation’s government to allow the work to go ahead.”

Chernoh Alpha M. Bah | Africanist Press

Idris Elba’s friend is Siaka Stevens (of course Stevens’ last name is a familiar one in Sierra Leone). In its reporting, the Guardian said Elba and Stevens both grew up together in east London, and they have decided to embark on the ambitious project of turning Sherbro into an eco-city.  The newspaper revealed that Elba and Stevens had set up a joint company called Sherbro Alliance Partners (SAP), and they had “reached agreements with the Sierra Leonean government, as well as several major firms, to build an eco-city as a public-private partnership.”

This is not the end of the story.

The Guardian further added that Idris Elba and Siaka Stevens have even “agreed on a deal with the energy company, Octopus, to build Sierra Leone’s first wind farm on the island, which lacks main electricity and is a two-hour ferry trip from the mainland.”

This was exciting news in Sierra Leone. News of these kinds of development projects has often been greeted with enthusiasm in the country. Many Sierra Leoneans, both at home and abroad, applauded Elba’s “dream city project.” Of course, the country badly needs real economic and social development, more so development projects and initiatives that are driven by citizens of the country.

However, Elba’s ideas are not new in West Africa; other African entertainers with new smart and eco-city dreams have been on the news lately.

Not very long ago, US-Senegalese singer Akon had also announced his own plans “to build a futuristic city in his ancestral homeland.” The first phase of Akon’s project was supposed to have been completed in 2023. The Guardian, which featured Elba’s dream project, had similarly reported in December 2023 that Akon’s city project faced “delays and controversy” and instead of the promised futuristic city, “only a youth center and the shell of what is planned to be the welcome center had been built.”

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Africanist Press Updates: Listen! In this audio episode, the Africanist Press Chief Editor explores the proposed privatization of Sherbro Island and its planned transformation into a 'Casino Republic' in Sierra Leone. The legal and political implications of the proposed takeover of Sherbro Island by multinational corporations.

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The Guardian added that “while Akon received praise for the planned city’s Afrofuturistic aesthetics,” skeptics are now asking whether Akon’s proposed city “will ever come to pass.” Disappointment is slowly becoming the dream city’s outcome, the newspaper said.  In the case of the proposed Sherbro city, the Guardian said Elba is unlike Akon: “he has been clear about where his strengths lie.”

“Never in my lifetime would I have thought I could build the foundation for a new smart city. I’m not qualified for that. But I am qualified to dream big,” Elba told the UK-based newspaper.

Nevertheless, the contrast begs the question: what stands between a “dream” and its “outcome?”

Many people say there are various kinds of dreams: good dreams and bad dreams. They say what separates one dream from another dream is similar to the differences between fantasies and nightmares; the reason why people dream whether they are asleep or wide awake.

Certainly, the UK-based Guardian was grappling with these differences in dreams when reporting on, and contrasting between, Akon’s “dream city project” and Elba’s “dream city project.”

To understand dreams of any kind – and perhaps their differences – one might have to consider the place of the dream and the moment(s) that produced the dream itself. What are the dreamer’s conditions and existential circumstances? What are the internal and external forces that drive an individual(s) to dream?

The totality of the circumstances has to be carefully considered when assessing the place and strength of a given dream. In doing so, we bring ourselves to the starting point of asking, and also debating, whether a particular dream is realistic or unrealistic. What are the dream’s real possibilities? Can those possibilities be actualized? If yes, how can they be actualized?

While thinking about dreams and their realities today, we looked up the “dream city project” of Idris Elba and Siaka Stevens. We looked at the various companies carrying out their dream city project: the Sherbro Alliance Limited and Sherbro Alliance Partners Limited; all incorporated in the UK. 

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READ Idris Elba: Why I'm Planning a Move To Africa. British actor Idris Elba has told the BBC that he will relocate to Africa within the next decade as part of his plans to support the continent’s movie industry.

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Sherbro Alliance Limited was incorporated on 10th June 2019 as a private limited company (#12040217) under the UK Companies Act 2006. Idris Akuna Elba and Siaka Stevens are the two listed directors and shareholders of the company. On 13th November 2019, the company’s directors applied to voluntarily strike off the company from the UK Register of Companies, and on 26th November 2019, the Registrar gazetted the application to strike off the company from the register, and the company was eventually dissolved on 11th February 2020.

The second company, Sherbro Alliance Partners Limited, was also incorporated on 27th September 2019 (#12231721); similarly, as a private limited company in England and Wales. Siaka Stevens is the only listed company director, and the company’s shareholders, at the time of registration, are IE7 Holdings Limited and Siaka Stevens; each individually holding 50% shares. IE7 Holdings Limited was incorporated on 3rd April 2019 with Idris Elba as company director.

The unaudited financial statements of Sherbro Alliance Partners Limited for the year ended 31st December 2022 included an unsecured “loan of £2,861,393 due to IE7 Limited.” The loan “attracts an interest rate of 4% above the base rate of the Bank of England for repayments made outside of the repayment dates.” In FY2021, the said loan amounted to £2,227,255 and has since increased by £634,138 by the close of FY2022.

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READ Idris Elba Arrived In His Father´s Native Sierra Leone For The First Time. Idris Elba arrived in Sierra Leone on Wednesday, December 18, 2019, where he is due to receive Sierra Leone citizenship and celebrate Christmas with the President, Julius Maada Bio, according to government sources. 

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What does this tell us about dreams and their complexities, about the differences in dreams, the varied interpretations of dreams, and the accompanying realities of dreams? How do dreams inform our approach to, and understanding of, nation building and sustainable development?

In any case and by any rate, we attach herewith extract pages showing the registration details of the two Sherbro Alliance companies shouldering the Sherbro city dream project.

First published July 17, 2024. Feel free to share it or Post a comment in the Comments section.

Ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince Dies Aged 29

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A war orphan from Sierra Leone, Michaela Mabinty DePrince dies aged 29. DePrince moved to the US and ended up performing with Beyonce`. Her life was one defined by grace, purpose, and strength. Her unwavering commitment to her art, her humanitarian efforts, and her courage in overcoming unimaginable challenges will forever inspire us. She stood as a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty, and greatness can rise from the darkest of places. DePrince started her life at an orphanage in Sierra Leone. After being adopted by a New Jersey family, she began to take dance classes and went on to the prestigious Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School.

DePrince started her life at an orphanage in war-torn Sierra Leone. After being adopted by a New Jersey family, she began to take dance classes and went on to the prestigious Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School

Ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, who has performed with Beyoncé and was seen by many as a trailblazer, has passed away at the age of 29. A spokesperson announced her death on her personal Instagram page, and in a statement, her family said she was an "unforgettable inspiration to everyone who knew her or heard her story." The cause of her death has not been disclosed.

DePrince captivated audiences in "First Position," a compelling 2011 documentary that chronicles the journeys of six young dancers. She also released two inspiring books about her life: "Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina" and "Ballerina Dreams."

Michaela DePrince performing 'Giselle' with the English National Ballet in 2017

Despite being told that "the world wasn't ready for black ballerinas" or that "black ballerinas weren't worth investing in," she persevered with determination and focus, achieving remarkable success in her career.

Michaela DePrince as Kitri in a South African Mzansi Ballet production of Don Quixote, 2013

Recipient of numerous accolades in the world of international dance, Michaela DePrince also appeared in Beyoncé's "Freedom" music video.

Beyoncé's "Freedom" is currently being used as a campaign anthem by Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the presidency.

Her spokesperson wrote that her artistry "touched countless hearts" and her spirit had "inspired many, leaving an indelible mark on the world of ballet, and beyond".

Click Here to Read More on Ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince on her Instagram page.

Wikipedia — Michaela DePrince Bio

Rest in Power, Michaela Mabinty DePrince

Theo Edwards for YAME

Salone! The Art of Deception

Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella

His silence speaks volumes about the lengths politicians go for political gain and the prevalence of deception in our political system

These senior officials, Lara Taylor-Pearce(Mrs.); Former Auditor General, Sierra Leone, and Tamba Momoh; Former Deputy Auditor General, Sierra Leone, must have statutory independence.

“Sadly, Salone is so out of place that you don’t know where to start giving them credit for as much as you would like”

— YAME

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By Basita Michael (Lawyer, Former ICL Lecturer FBC, Founder Sierraeye Magazine and Sierraeye Debate, Former President SLBA, Governing officer ILRAJ) on ‘X’ formerly Twitter.

Before joining the current government, Kandeh Yumkella described the suspension of the Auditor General as "another nail in the coffin of accountability and democracy." Now, with the recommendation for her removal following the tribunal's report, where is Kandeh Yumkella's outrage? His silence speaks volumes about the lengths politicians go for political gain and the prevalence of deception in our political system.

Basita Michael | @MichaelBasita

At this crucial juncture, if Kandeh Yumkella does not speak up to express the same indignation and call for the reinstatement of Lara Taylor-Pearce and her deputy, he risks being remembered not only as an accomplice to the demise of accountability and democracy but also as a champion of political hypocrisy.

Basita Michael Profile: Lawyer, Former ICL Lecturer FBC, Founder Sierraeye Magazine and Sierraeye Debate, Former President SLBA, Governing officer ILRAJ | CLICK HERE

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RELATED

Many Sierra Leoneans are deeply troubled by the President's recent recommendation to remove from office the suspended Auditor General, Mrs. Lara Taylor-Pearce, and her deputy, Tamba Momoh. This decision is being widely criticized for lacking legitimacy and has ignited significant public outrage.

“Helen Clark, the former New Zealand Prime Minister, UNDP Administrator, and the Ad Global Ambassador for Supreme Audit Institution Independence appointed by #Intosai Donor Co-operation.”

— Commented on her LinkedIn page

Helen Clark IDC Goodwill Ambassador for SAI Independence — The INTOSAI-Donor Cooperation

‘These senior officials must have statutory independence to fulfill their important functions of holding governments to account and scrutinizing the use of public money’ ~ Helen Clark.

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Response to Press Release from State House dated Tuesday, 9th July, 2024 — Lara Taylor-Pearce(Mrs.) — CLICK HERE

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Response to Press Release from State House dated Tuesday, 9th July, 2024 — Tamba Momoh — CLICK HERE

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First Black Deputy Mayor of Camden, London, England

From being a refugee to holding the position of Deputy Mayor

Guest Contributor, UK

A remarkable achievement: Eddie Hanson, a Sierra Leonean refugee, has shattered barriers by becoming the first Black Deputy Mayor of Camden, London, England.

Eddie was elected as councilor in May 2022 and was appointed Deputy Mayor of Camden on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the Council's Annual General Meeting.

A native of Sierra Leone he fled the devastating eleven-year civil war that claimed thousands of lives.

‘I was just a child when Sierra Leone was devastated by war. I was captured by one of the militias and taken away for a long time. As a child in war, survival was uncertain. The fear of losing my parents and loved ones was constant,’ recounted Eddie, sharing his experiences from the civil war in Sierra Leone.

A devastating conflict resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of lives. Eddie's family was among the hundreds of lucky families who managed to flee the war in Sierra Leone, although his brother wasn't so fortunate - he was killed during the war.

‘My family was lucky,’ he said. ‘I’m eternally grateful to my parents and sisters because of their sacrifices.

Eddie is a member of the UK Labour Party, CEO of The Game Changers UK, and a former cabinet adviser, His remarkable journey from councilor to Mayor was far from easy.

As the United Kingdom tightens its borders and immigration laws, Eddie warns that asylum seekers face treacherous journeys before they stand any chance of applying for help from the UK government.

Raw, Unfiltered Truth About Growth Especially As a Young Man

Nick Wood (aka. Krio Borbor)

3:39 PM · Apr 11, 2024, from Sierra Leone: Krio Borbor on his Twitter handle, wrote:

14 years ago almost to this very day, I came to Sierra Leone. I was your classic 'white man' from America who had no idea this country existed or that Africa was a continent and not a country.

If I’d known the physical challenges/changes I was signing up for when I boarded the plane …

• no electricity

• bucket showers

• sweaty poda poda rides

• rice for every meal

• run belleh

or the mental/emotional challenges …

• learning a new language

• being a minority in a new land

• homesickness

• betrayal

• questioning if what I believed was true

I can’t 100% certainly tell you that I would have still agreed to come _just being honest.

But it’s a catch-22 because I know what all those challenges and experiences did for me when I stepped on that plane to return to the USA 2 years later.

I wasn’t the same person

“I was humbled by force, my belief in God was unwavering, I felt empathy for everyone around me, and my confidence in myself was indescribable.
I craved growth and learning over pleasure”

— I had BECOME

I came here as a prideful, immature, and insecure boy. I left a confident, humble, and purpose-driven man. So, for those who know me as Krio Borbor, this is where it all started.

Nick Wood, from Utah at age 19 was assigned a two-year humanitarian mission to Sierra Leone in 2010. A Latter-day Saints missionary, Krio Borbor laments, 'It was the experience of a lifetime and it certainly changed me forever.'

Now, he lives in the country with his family after completing his Mormon missionary assignments.

He has a large following on Instagram, where he records his adventures in Sierra Leone and his passion for the language and culture.

Responding to critics, Krio Borbor revealed that since his arrival, he hasn't earned any money in Sierra Leone.

BBC Africa took notice and produced a video back in 2019. The reaction of many Sierra Leoneans to the BBC Africa video of this former Mormon missionary Nick Wood aka. Krio Borbor and his stay in Sierra Leone, suggest unrecognized elements of white privilege or supremacy ~ thoughts from a Wakanda Warrior.

In this BBC Africa One Minute Story in January of 2019, he explained his love of the country and why he is teaching his children Krio

“Krio Borbor recognizes his privilege by making himself vulnerable. In a video he shared on January 21, 2019, Krio Borbor used words with metaphors of neo-colonialism and white privilege. However, in that video, Krio Borbor made it clear ‘he just doesn’t know what’ he might do to make a difference. This means – he is not in this country with an agenda to exploit or impose his views on us. Krio Borbor might be naive to some of his white savior complexities, but he can recognize them with vulnerability.

Krio Borbor’s views on Sierra Leone are from a strength perspective. I have scanned through his pictures and videos; they tend to portray a positive image of our country. His posts energize people to get involved with our country in different ways. He is in NO WAY negatively appropriating our CULTURE, but selling our COUNTRY in a positive dimension. A good number of our Western-based NGOs are busy showing the negative side of our country – and this man is reversing the conversation.

Krio Borbor has shown humility in understanding our context. The guy (Krio Borbor) has taken his genuine obsession with our country to another stretch. He has learned the language, eaten our food, hung out with our people, and plugged into our complicated country. He has done this with a heart of humility. You can sense his love for our place, people, and patterns. He is for real!!!

Krio Borbor might be struggling with elements of white privilege (which he might not recognize), but his positives surpass the negatives. He has done a good job by staying away from our politics and pop culture. He used social and mainstream media to develop a ‘tourism brand’ for our nation _This is something we have not done well as a people. We might disagree or agree – but don’t take one thing away from the man – he loves our country.”

— Paul A. Conteh (Lecturer/Public Affairs Analyst)

Fast forward to ‘The reaction’ to Apr 11, 2024, from Sierra Leone: Krio Borbor on his Twitter handle—

14 years ago almost to this very day I came to Sierra Leone 🇸🇱

I was your classic “white man” from America who had no idea this country existed or that Africa was a continent and not a country 💀😳

if I’d know the physical challenges/changes I was signing up for when I boarded… pic.twitter.com/KdObyCadpn

— Krio Borbor (@krioborbor) April 11, 2024

Tap to Read the Response. Launch the Twitter 'Read the replies,' and select a browser of choice if you haven't got an 'X' /Twitter account.

So, the question is: ‘White privilege or a life of humility?’

Humility in the Bible is presented as the practice of meekness, obedience to God, respect for self and others, submissiveness, and modesty (Colossians 3:12-13). People with humility put others' needs before their own, sacrificing for the love of others.

So, the question is: White privilege or a life of humility? You decide.

Related

“Fatu Kanu @fatu-kanu7 Replying to @krioborbor”

— the video she is referring to [attached]

Excerpts from the video The First Lady Fatima Bio, wife of the current president Maada Bio discusses the enduring impact in present-day SaLone at a symposium at Harvard. 

The interesting irony and explanation of @krioborbor's experience in Sierra Leone as challenging is blamed on foreign partners, especially the British. They are the cause for the blackout and bucket shower.'

The Tragic Story of Sierra Leone Under the Bio, SLPP

Level of deceit

“The SLPP Administration needs to apologize to the citizens of Sierra Leone.”

— Commentary in the local dialect Krio by Concord Times Newspapers (SL) former editor, Atomic Pen:

“Fatima Bio exposed her husband: The analysis.”

— Arthur Pratt /Courtesy video

Running thread commentary! Launch the Twitter 'READ REPLIES,' and select a browser of choice if you haven't got an 'X' /TWITTER Account.

‘A mineral-rich nation buying electricity from a #Turkish ship anchored on the city's shores has failed to pay its dues, and the ship's owners have reduced their output, plunging the entire capital into darkness.’ @AlphajorbaBah

A mineral-rich nation buying electricity from a #Turkish ship anchored on the city's shores has failed to pay its dues, and the ship's owners have reduced their output, plunging the entire capital into darkness. This is the same nation that organised elections recently. Yet, the… pic.twitter.com/SvoZt0seFA

— Alpha Bah (@AlphajorbaBah) April 19, 2024

EDSA apologize! What a mockery

EDSA, apologize!

Going viral in SL social media right now. 🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/mUYNdzpaWP

— Yame.space (@SpaceYame) April 19, 2024

Paopa v2.0 is nothing but lightweight and trivial. The struggle is real.

Article Source: By Theo Edwards

Sierra Leone 2023 - Final Report on General Elections June 2023

European Union Election Observation Mission Sierra Leone 2023

Dated 10.10.2023

Tabulation and announcement of results proved to be the tipping point for the credibility of the elections. The entire process was opaque, meaningful observation was impeded and the declaration of winners was not followed by the publication of disaggregated results per polling station. On 27 June, the ECSL declared Julius Mada Bio of the Sierra Leone Peoples’ Party (SLPP) elected for a second term, passing the constitutional threshold of 55 percent in the first round by 1.17 percentage points. Following the declaration of the results of the parliamentary elections a few days later, it was clear that result totals published by the ECSL showed several statistical inconsistencies and mathematical improbabilities. 

These included notable discrepancies in the number of average valid votes per polling station between the first and second batch of presidential results, varying from a decrease of 75 percent to an increase of 31 percent per district; a difference of up to 23 percentage points per district between the turnout for the presidential and parliamentary elections, with some districts registering substantially lower parliamentary turnouts and others showing significantly lower presidential turnouts; turnout above 90 percent in five districts; and only 0.4 percent of invalid votes nation-wide. These inconsistencies, combined with the ECSL’s decision not to publish disaggregated results, undermined the credibility of the tabulation process and voters’ confidence in the outcome of the polls.

Overall, the 2023 general elections underscored a clear commitment among Sierra Leoneans to the democratic processes, while also proving an urgent need for further reforms focusing on transparency, trust-building, and inclusion. The EU EOM is offering 21 recommendations for improving the way elections are organized, managed, and conducted and for upholding regional and international commitments. 

There are seven priority recommendations:

1. Publish the final voter register per polling station and per polling center in a timely manner and allow voters to verify and correct all their details.  

2. The ECSL to establish and publish detailed procedures for the tabulation and announcement of results, as well as put in place a robust, transparent, and easily verifiable results processing system well ahead of elections. 

3. Publish on the ECSL website comprehensive election results data by polling station, including results per candidate and per party, the number of registered voters, and of valid and invalid votes, in a timely manner and in an easily trackable and downloadable database format. 

4. Ensure safety and security for all candidates through a timely conclusion of investigations, holding perpetrators of violence accountable, and enabling the PPRC to act effectively upon violations of campaign rules. 

5. Ensure enforcement of legal restrictions on the misuse of state resources and explicitly prohibit the use of official functions, as well as government websites and social media accounts for campaign purposes. 

6. Ensure transparency in campaign finance by introducing caps for campaign revenues and expenses and clear rules of reporting and public disclosure before, during, and after the elections, including by the media, and by implementing robust sanctions for noncompliance. 

7. Protect freedom of expression by clearly aligning the definitions of “cyber-terrorism”, “cyber-stalking”, “cyber-bullying” and “incendiary information” with relevant regional and international standards. 

Click to see the full document

The Rising Cost of Living, Especially Food and Energy

Tin tranga! 

That is the new national anthem as hardship grips the motherland.

Tin tranga! That is the new national anthem as hardship grips the motherland. The cost of essential commodities keeps soaring, making the cost of living unaffordable for many. 

Sierra Leone

From food to fuel and utilities to higher education, everything is going out of reach for the average Salone man. Even those with deep pockets (and there aren’t many) are feeling the pinch. What is the government doing?

According to Statistics Sierra Leone, Consumer Price Inflation stood at almost 45% in July this year. When you focus on food and non-alcoholic beverages alone, you get a staggering 59.93% for the same month. These figures are alarming, but the reality of people, as far as the cost of living is concerned, is even more terrifying, with high levels of hunger and food insecurity. According to the World Food Programme, 78% of the country’s population is food insecure.

The rising fuel prices and impending increase in EDSA tariff in Sierra Leone definitely put a strain on the finances of its citizens. The situation is going to be difficult for everyone, regardless. When fuel prices go up, so do the prices of goods and services transported. 

‘_slogans and gimmicks but no real solution.’ Hardship for the people of Salone.

In only a few months, there has been a significant increase in fuel prices. The cost of electricity is about to increase. Last year, the cost of telecoms services—calling credit and mobile data—also increased significantly. Whether eating at a cookery baffa or a posh restaurant, you will still pay a lot more today. Recreation is a pure luxury.

The rising cost of living, especially food and energy, is commonly attributed to global market forces and, more recently, to the coronavirus pandemic and the ongoing Russia-Ukrainian war. While all of this might make sense, it is helpful only to an extent and is irrelevant to the people who struggle to live day by day. 

While global food and fuel prices decreased in 2022, Sierra Leoneans experienced a steady hike as the Leone depreciated by 60% in 2022. The economy has been on life-support for the most part, and according to the World Bank, inflation and currency depreciation reached record levels. So, the ‘global’ argument passed on from government to government does not pass muster. 

It is hard to understand and accept this type of behavior. It is a state of austerity for everyone except the administration. It is business as usual with an expanding wage burden—new and additional appointees, new institutions and offices, new big cars, and over-the-top spending. 

Thanks to the ensuing pressure of Bretton Woods and a broke State that constantly needs money, subsidies are being removed on fuel. You struggle to see the effort the State is making to cut costs. Everyone else bears the biting hardship while political appointees get subsidized by the very State—that is taking away subsidies from the struggling masses. 

Teachers must hustle their way to work with high transportation costs of NLe600—NLe800 (mere US$40) monthly SALARY, while senior state officials enjoy the comfort of a chauffeur-driven guzzler, with fuel paid by taxes of the poor teacher. 

Government institutions have normalized renting private properties for office use at the taxpayers' expense, while many public buildings remain underutilized or neglected. No one is interested in cutting those costs while the poor have to pay for it. Government events continue to be held at luxury venues with overpriced catering. Constant supply of free fuel to officials at the expense of the taxpayer. Let us not even talk about the expensive trips on chartered planes. What happened to 'The Land That We Love, Our Sierra Leone.'

'Knowledge and truth our forefathers spread,

Mighty the nations whom they led;

Mighty they made thee, so too may we

Show forth the good that is ever in thee.'

Until radical cuts to wasteful spending are made, the government will have no ground to stand on to offer plausible explanations for the hardship. It is possible that such cuts would not solve the problem. Still, the people should be able to see that their government is not only using global cost of living excuses to justify the increasing poverty but also doing something about it.

We are at a point where it would make sense to declare a state of austerity and adopt comprehensive cost-cutting measures that start from the very top. With food inflation at almost 50% and a currency that is withering away, there is no shame in saying that we are in a terrible situation that warrants drastic cuts—not the unjustifiable and untimely removal of subsidies, but on wasteful spending that is avoided and there is a lot of it—from the V8 Landcruisers to the trips and unnecessary events and fuel.

It is getting to a point where the government needs to stop explaining why people suffer from a constantly increasing cost of living and start taking steps and doing what responsible parents do when things are hard in the home. 

The discussion must no longer be about what is causing the hardship. There has to be a shift towards government action to cushion the impact on its people.

Visa Restriction Policy on Undermining the Democratic Process in Sierra Leone

Statement by Secretary of State Anthony J. Blinken

August 31, 2023

The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Sierra Leone and around the world.  Today, I am announcing a new visa restriction policy under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act for undermining the democratic process in the June 2023 Sierra Leone election.

The visa restriction policy announced today will apply to specific individuals and is not directed at the Sierra Leonean people.  

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98.1 Radio Democracy Journalist Musa Kamara Receives Threat Over Interview With US Ambassador

“I have been dramatic in the last 24 hours since that my interview with the outgoing US Ambassador to Sierra Leone, David Reimer.”

— 98.1 Radio Democracy Journalist Musa Kamara

US Government Rejects Election Outcome in Sierra Leone as Mayor Aki Sawyerr Discloses Rigged Results

The US government published this statement: “The United States continues to be concerned about irregularities in the election results announced by the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL). Independent parallel vote tabulations and analyses by accredited national and international observation missions raise questions about the integrity of the official results.

98.1 Radio Democracy Journalist, Musa Kamara Receives Threat Over Interview With US Ambassador

“I have been dramatic in the last 24 hours since that my interview with the outgoing US Ambassador to Sierra Leone, David Reimer.” 

August 18, 2023

A senior journalist at Radio Democracy, Musa Kamara said he has received several threats following a controversial interview with the US Ambassador to Sierra Leone, David Reimer.

“I have been dramatic in the last 24 hours since that my interview with the outgoing US Ambassador to Sierra Leone, David Reimer,” Kamara said.

He added that he has received several threatening remarks on social media and personal text messages. He noted that the threats are a cause for concern and notified the radio station’s management and the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ).

“Going forward I feel scared to do the job I love,” Kamara said in an interview with Sierraloaded.

Kamara’s interview with Ambassador Reimer was leaked on Wednesday. In the interview, Reimer said the United States is concerned about the 24 June election results. He added that they want an independent institution to investigate the results.

The 2023 elections are believed to be one of the most controversial multitier elections Sierra Leone has conducted in recent times.

The outcome of the elections currently harbors an impasse between the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party and the main opposition party, All People’s Congress (APC) The APC has boycotted government and governance citing statistical inconsistencies with the announced results.

Tagged: #Sierraloaded

Refer to the audio at https://yame.space/whats-up-africalinks/us-government-rejects-election-outcome-in-sierra-leone-as-mayor-aki-sawyerr-discloses-rigged-results

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U.S. Embassy Position on the Sierra Leone Election Results and the Country's Economy; Ambassador Reimers' announcement on Radio Democracy 98.1. (Last Updated August 16, 2023; 7:35 AM EST.)

Injustice Anywhere is a Threat to Justice Everywhere

Alhaji U Njai

Freelance writer and concerned Sierra Leonean

When we do the right things with integrity, fairness, and transparency, peace is assured at all times in society.

Everyone is crying out for peace in Sierra Leone: yet no one is crying out for social justice and equity, which are fundamental for creating and maintaining peace. —Crying out for peace when that peace based on our neighbors’ oppression will not bear good fruits or lead to a healthy and progressive peaceful society.

Telling people to move on after an incident without healing is simply telling them to accept wrongful acts in society and normalize those behaviors.

From Independence in Sierra Leone to war, ebola, and landslides to our present debacle, we seemingly normalize wrongful acts with a ‘how for do, na for biya’ mentality. Each time we have the opportunity to make things right, nothing is done—we move on without addressing the problem or root cause analysis; no deep healing occurs, and lessons remain unlearnt.

Hence, we keep developing a society with deep wounds and emotional and mental scars or trauma with no support, healing mechanisms, or therapy in place. We are simply left to cope with the mental or psychological trauma of our social ills, with substance abuse becoming a favorite mechanism for a large segment of society.

Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. Unfortunately, our Sierra Leonean society is now one of too many compromised people and no statesmen or institutions serving as moral guarantors. When we do the right things with integrity, fairness, and transparency; peace is assured at all times in society.

As Sierra Leone Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) post-war found injustices, human rights abuses, greed, corruption, bad governance, lack of accountability and transparency, and leadership failures as the roots of the war; we must never forget the things that led us to years of brutal war.

The lessons of the war must serve as our daily reminder to work assiduously towards developing a thriving, socially just, and equitable Sierra Leone. Upholding the truth, fairness, integrity, and transparency at all times thus matters. 

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Alhaji Umar N’jai is a Ph.D. Senior Scientist, Associate Professor, Panafrican Scholar, Founder & Chief Strategist of Project 1808, Inc., and Freelance writer ‘Roaming in the Mountains of Kabala Republic.’

Project1808 is a Madison, Wisconsin-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving community livelihood and technical capacity through school, university, and community projects and global partnerships in Sierra Leone. Project1808 was founded in 2009 by Sierra Leone native Dr. Alhaji N’jai and became an official 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization in the United States in 2011.

Project1808 is committed to optimizing partnerships between educational institutions locally, within Africa, and overseas, particularly with the involvement of other African countries.

A View of a Part of Freetown

The City is a Market

Freetown the F-R-E-E T-O-W-N: A sprawling slum from east to west

Leaders need to think less politically and stop seeing people as mere 'constituencies' and votes. Because it is those political calculations that are responsible for the inaction of the leaders on many of these issues.

The capital, Freetown, has turned into a sprawling slum. From east to west, it has lost shape, looking less and less like a nation’s capital. What used to be a small, beautiful city on the coast has become extremely busy and overpopulated with no Law and Order. Freetown needs to be free from its freeness; that is what this piece is about.

Establishing the problem here can be done quite effortlessly.

You only need to step out —and are met with a frenzy from virtually all directions and sources.

The city is a market. And it is looking like a slum too. Everyone is selling everywhere. In fact, the norm now is that every new building must have a shop on the ground floor, regardless of the location —commercial or residential zone.

Commercial motorbikes (Okadas) and their cousins’ three-wheelers (kekehs) scattered like an upset swarm of bees crisscrossing the roads with passengers whose life expectancy drops every time they get on one of them.

They make their own rules. In fact, they have no Rules. They can choose to drive in the opposite direction without any consideration for the law or other road users. There are Okada and Kekeh stations everywhere.

Okada and Kekeh stations everywhere

People who own restaurants and bars can install the loudest speakers and play their music way into the night without consideration for anyone or any rules. The churches and mosques are no different.

They use religion to take advantage of communities that are overly respectful of anything that carries the name of God.

Street workshops/garages are popping up everywhere, and you wonder how this is even allowed to happen when there is someone somewhere paid to stop it. Abandoned vehicles? All over the place.

There is filth everywhere. It's either piles of garbage at street corners or litter all over. Communal garbage disposal sites have all disappeared and huge new buildings have popped up where they used to be. And in Freetown today, you have no chance of shielding yourself from this disorderliness, regardless of where you live. Everyone in the city and its neighbor, the rural district, lives in a slum by default. You have no choice. Sad! but this is our reality.

How did we get here?

We inherited a beautiful city from our ancestors, and instead of improving on it and keeping what deserves preservation, we have basically undone Freetown.

We have turned it into an eyesore, and the destruction goes on as we turn Lumley Beach into a massive colony of 'baffas' and as we continue to build into the hills, leaving the landscape looking patchy -increasing the pressure on the environment, contributing to the deadly floods and mudslides that we have been seeing.

Its Citizens and, Everyone with authority should take responsibility for this mess.

Politics would not allow the leaders to make decisions that are in the interest of everyone.

They would rather let dangerous bikes take over the City. Allowing traders turn the City into a market and leave everyone to build where they want _instead of taking action to protect the residents and maintain order and peace in the nation’s capital.

The central Government introduced decentralization but has been unprepared to let go, and it seems to be locked in a perennial war with the current administration of the city. Reason? Politics.

Whether this is true or not does not really matter. What is important is that the Government and Freetown City Council have not been able to work together for the good of ‘Freetonians,’ to borrow a word from Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr.

The Mayor has recently been concentrating on a lot of environmental projects. She is working hard on heat and climate adaptation. This is important considering how fast the globe is heating up and how climate change is impacting the lives and livelihoods of ordinary people. However, we seem to have dropped the ball on the basics, including sanitation; and law and order. The Council has a set of clearly written bylaws. If we enforce half of those laws, the city would not be in this ‘dorti-kata’ and ‘chaka-chaka’ slum state.

The transport authorities and the police are also complicit because they have turned law enforcement into an enterprise. No one is safe on the roads. Police officers and road safety personnel are busy chasing bike riders all day, not to stop them from breaking the rules but for extortion. The sight of police chasing Okadas and hassling them resembles scenes from Tom and Jerry. Jokes!

All of this goes back to some very unfortunate Sierra Leonean peculiarities. We usually have zero consideration for the other person. As long as ‘ar don get sai for pak me motor car, na go ar go so.’ Whatever happens after that is somebody else’s problem. We have lowered the standards on everything—from food and quality of life to development projects and even politics. No standards. So, we could all be sitting on filth in the city and everyone—the Government, the Council, and all the authorities would be fine with it, and they would tell you, ‘We don try’. This national laisser-faire attitude affects the way we the people appreciate and appraise leadership and also influences the leaders’ behavior in office.

A lot of these issues have socioeconomic roots. People are desperate to make a living. So, they sell everything, everywhere.

There are too few jobs and opportunities for young people in the country. So, a lot of them see Okada or Kekeh as employment.

Housing is a massive problem. It is a crisis that we have not acknowledged. Everyone is desperate to build everywhere either; to escape predatory house owners or the well-to-do building of more properties. These are real everyday issues affecting working people. They are also signs that things are becoming extremely hard for people. But there has to be a balance between livelihood and sanity in the city. There also has to be due consideration for the safety and well-being of everyone living in the city. We cannot turn the Capital into a state of anarchy just because the government has failed to look after its citizens and guarantee a life of dignity.

What is the future of Freetown? Should we give up and start thinking of a new capital? Or, can we, and should we try to salvage what's left of Freetown?

Whatever course we choose as a nation, it would require bold, visionary leadership at both central and local government levels to make any changes. Leaders need to think less politically and stop seeing people as mere 'constituencies' and votes. Because it is those political calculations that are responsible for the inaction of the leaders on many of these issues.

If other small countries and cities can get it right, why can’t we?

Original Publication February 11, 2023

Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr End Of Tenure Message

Freetown City Council

March 1, 2023

Dear Freetonians 

Pursuant to a letter from the Minister of Local Government dated 8th February 2023 instructing all Mayors, Chairpersons, and Councillors to “vacate” the Local Councils on 1st March 2023, I write to inform you that my tenure as Mayor of Freetown ends today. (For the record, this directive is in contravention of Section 137 of the Local Government Act 2022 which provides for local councils to be dissolved at the earlier of the dissolution of Parliament [25th April 2023] or the fifth anniversary of the first council sitting [30th May 2023]).

I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to serve Freetonians and to embark with you on our collective journey to #TransformFreetown. Yesterday, in a Press Conference at the Freetown City Council, I presented the Transform Freetown Four-Year Report which details our interventions and progress made between January 2022 and January 2023. A copy of the report is attached and copies of the First Year, Second Year, and Third Year Transform Freetown Reports can be accessed here https://fcc.gov.sl. I am excited about our achievements over the course of my tenure despite the many challenges I encountered personally and by the Freetown City Council as an institution. 

#TransformFreetown is about transforming lives. Yesterday I was grateful to receive surprise visits and gifts from ordinary Freetonians, market women, and street sweepers, who gave moving testimonies about the 1000s of jobs created during my tenure and their own experiences of personal economic empowerment, growth, and development. 

Yesterday afternoon was spent in a fun-filled farewell event with the FCC Staff during which I handed over to Chief Administrator Festus Kallay the 3 decorative mayoral chains as a symbol of the authority of the office of the mayor. It was wonderful to use that opportunity to inform FCC staff that after over 3 years of working on this, the FCC salary harmonization process had finally been completed, and a transparent system of salary bands that objectively reflect qualifications, experience, and length of service was being implemented for all staff from February 2023! 

yvonne aki-sawyerr, OBE: mayor of freetown from May 2018 to February 2023

Celebrations of the end of my tenure continued in the evening with a cocktail event. I was so pleased to share the celebrations with All People’s Congress (APC) Party Flagbearer Dr. Samura Kamara, US Ambassador David Reimer, UK High Commissioner Lisa Chesney, Irish Ambassador Claire Buckley, World Bank Country Manager Abdu Muwonge, Tony Blair Institute Country Lead Mariama Anthony-Williams, EU Delegation Representative Serena Bertaina and many others development partners and stakeholders. 

One of the highlights of the evening was a performance by the children from the FCC Congo Water Market Early Learning Adventure Center. These bright, confident, and assertive children of the Congo Water market women warmed my heart and are themselves a true representation of the work we have done to #TransformLives!

Yesterday was also an opportunity to thank God and to thank my family who have been incredibly supportive of me and without whom I could not have hoped to succeed. I was pleasantly surprised and deeply moved by a video that was shown at the event in which my mother shared her perspectives on the work that I have done and the impact it has had on the lives of others. (The video is attached below.)

Thanks must also go to the APC party and particularly to Former President HE Ernest Bai Koroma for entrusting the APC Mayoral symbol to me in 2018. I am grateful to the APC not only for the symbol but also for their support throughout my tenure.

#TransformFreetown is a collective action so my deepest thanks are extended to the FCC Councillors and Staff, members of the Mayors Delivery Unit (past and present), our development partners both in the country and abroad, to the central government, and most of all to Freetonians. 

I leave office today grateful to have had the opportunity to serve, impact lives, raise awareness about climate change and design and implement interventions to address this major risk and other challenges in our city, and develop and embed systems and processes at the Freetown City Council that provide a foundation for sustainable development.

May I use this opportunity to wish Freetonians and all Sierra Leoneans a peaceful and democratic 24th June 2023 elections and a bright and prosperous future for our beloved city and nation. May God bless us all.

©️Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE

Sierra Leone: Devastation After Fuel Tanker Collision

Around the Wellington PMB area

By Theo Edwards

A fuel tanker exploded following a collision in the capital of Sierra Leone, Freetown, killing at least 99 people and injuring a dozen others, officials said.

The explosion took place late on Friday, November 5, 2021, after a vehicle struck the tanker in Wellington, a suburb east of the capital, Freetown.

Fuel spilled before igniting, and the resulting inferno engulfed bystanders, those trying to scoop fuel from the tanker, and vehicles at a busy intersection.

Several badly burned victims lay on the streets as flames blazed through shops and houses nearby. The extent of property damage was as yet unknown. Several eyewitnesses narrated in a video. Dozens of people are feared dead.

President Julius Maada Bio, who was in Scotland attending the United Nations Climate Change Conference in a Tweet, said he was “deeply disturbed by the tragic fires and the horrendous loss of life.”

People survey the extent of the damage

Charred Motorcycle

In pictures (Courtesy BBC): Sierra Leone devastation after Freetown fuel tanker collision

Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr said she saw “harrowing” photos, according to the BBC Africa.

After visiting the scene, Vice-President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh said it was a "national disaster."

Doctors and nurses were doing their best under very difficult conditions with limited resources and equipment to provide care

President Julius Maada Bio on Sunday declared three days of national mourning following the death of over one hundred people. He promised to set up a Presidential Task Force that will investigate the causes of the disaster and make recommendations for change.

Mass Burial in Freetown. Many of the victims burnt beyond recognition - will be buried in the same cemetery as victims of the 2017 landslide

Mass Burial in Freetown. Many of the victims burnt beyond recognition will be buried in the same cemetery as victims of the 2017 landslide.

Last updated: 11/13 - 06:56 EST.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in a statement issued by his Spokesperson on Saturday, that he was “deeply saddened by the extensive loss of life”, resulting from the crash, when the tanker collided with a lorry at a busy junction in the suburb of Wellington, spilling fuel, before igniting.

“The Secretary-General extends his deep condolences to the people and Government of Sierra Leone, and wishes those injured a speedy recovery”, said the statement.

Support on-going

“The United Nations is prepared to provide the necessary support in the aftermath of this tragic incident”, it continued.

The UN Office in Sierra Leone also issued a statement, wishing “fortitude and peace to the bereaved families, and the Government and people of Sierra Leone, in this period of grief.”

“Furthermore, as partners in the country’s development aspirations”, the UN family in the West African nation said it was closely monitoring the situation and would work with the Government to overcome what the country’s Vice-President, Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, reportedly described as a “national disaster”, after visiting the scene of the crash.

Specialized support

The World Health Organization (WHO) tweeted on Saturday that it was “mobilizing specialized supplies.”

“We are working to deploy burnt-patient care experts. We will provide more support as needed, at this terrible time for the people of Sierra Leone.”

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Stay on top of Sierra Leone's latest developments on the ground with YAME (pronounced yuh-may) fact-based news and exclusive video footage.

Sierra Leone: Freetown City Council

Transform Freetown

By Theo Edwards

Sierra Leone: Freetown City Council on 6th November 2020 hosted the Opening Ceremony for the new City Hall Complex and Hon. Tamba Lamina, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, delivered the keynote address.

Present at the Opening Ceremony was the Ambassador of South Korea to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Sierra Leone, Major General Lee In-Tae and his delegation; the Deputy Minister of Finance, Hon Patricia Laverly, and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon Solomon Jamiru; Esq. Also present were Dr. Kaifala Marah, former Minister of Finance, Mrs. Ebun Strasser-King, former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, members of the diplomatic community, Councillors and staff of Freetown City Council.

The 15 stories New City Hall is the administrative complex for Freetown City Council, whose primary purpose will be to serve as the Office of the Mayor and the Council’s Administration - a modern building in the heart of the City’s Central Business District. When all the contractual obligations finalized, the building expected officially hand over to the Freetown City Council administration.

The facilities include:

• A rooftop garden, sky-lounge restaurant, kitchen, and ten hotel rooms

• Three floors of ultra-modern office space, of approximately 1000 square meters each

• A library, computer laboratory, and open exhibition area

• Multi-story car park

• An auditorium for 460 people with cinema seating, fully-fitted stage, and audio-visual equipment

The New City Hall will provide much-needed space for Freetown City Council to provide services and engage with residents as the Council implements its Transform Freetown Agenda. The council plan to lease out parts of the complex.

The official handing over of the building to the Council Administration is at the end of November, and moving in before December, 31st 2020.

The New City Council: The new City Hall Complex consists of conference rooms, a 460 seater multifunctional activities conference hall with the latest technology, an underground power station of two 800KVA Generators, and a car park for over 100 vehicles.

Corruption Undermines Social Development and Stymied Inclusive Economic Growth

The White Papers

By Theo Edwards

Sierra Leone President: We Cannot Be This Corrupt. "We have to draw the line... we cannot be this corrupt as a nation and expect to develop," he told the BBC's Umaru Fofana in Freetown.

Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio has said an investigation into allegations of corruption into the administration of his predecessor, President Ernest Bai Koroma, will lead to a large amount of property being confiscated and stolen money being returned to the state.

President Maada Bio said the commission of inquiry, led by foreign judges, was a major breakthrough that would help make corruption unfashionable and risky.

"We have to draw the line... we cannot be this corrupt as a nation and expect to develop," he told the BBC's Umaru Fofana in Freetown.

A lawyer for Mr. Koroma's opposition APC party has dismissed the allegations and said the party would challenge the findings in court.

Listen: Sierra Leone President Maada Bio on corruption

Source: BBC

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A country that is desperately poor despite its wealth of natural resources would guarantee a decent standard of life for every one of its 7.5 million citizens.

President Julius Maada Bio, on Thursday, September 24, 2020, received the reports of the Commissions of Inquiry and the White Papers and has assured the Government will fully implement the recommendations therein.

The Government has carefully looked at the reports of the Commissions and the recommendations. The White Paper document recommendations Government has accepted in the interest of the people of Sierra Leone. Unlike other Commissions, the president assured the citizens that his administration would fully implement all recommendations.

In a press briefing, he publicly instructed the office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice to effect the recommendations of the Commissions of Inquiry. “Recover all monies recommended to be returned to the people of Sierra Leone and to confiscate all assets recommended, and all other such penalties as recommended.”

He, however, emphasized respect for the rule of law, adding that: Persons and entities affected by the recommendation are guaranteed a peaceful and transparent judicial appeals process through which they can seek relief.

Summary of Justice Biobele Commission of inquiries reports presentation

The White Papers

223 Billions of Leones where Misappropriated by persons of interest ($94 Million) investigated by Justice Biobele.

126 person of interest investigated in his commission

84 indicted by Justice Biobele, they include:

1 indicted former President of Sierra Leone ( Ernest Bai Koroma)

13 indicted Former Minister

6 indicted Deputy former minister

1 indicted CEO of National Ebola Response Center

1 indicted former secretary to the former President

2 indicted former Governor of the bank of Sierra Leone

1 indicted former chairman of National Commission for Privatisation

3 indicted Member of Parliament

10 Permanent Secretary

1 former coordinating officer of the National Election Commission

1 former head of case management Team at the Ebola operation Center

2 former Director-General

1 former CEO of Small Medium Enterprise Development Agency

1 former Managing Director of Sierra Leone Commercial Bank

5 of the former Director of youth projects where indicated

3 heads of Musical groups in Sierra Leone. (Kolabo and others to refund money giving to them to the Government of Sierra Leone)

26 Person of interest where discharged

5 former Minister where discharged

10 former deputy minister where discharged

2 Permanent Secretary where discharged

9 other persons of interest were discharged including (a ) Kawsu Kebbie; (b) Chief Sadiq Kapuwa; (c ) Ibrahim Swarry of NPPA

The most guilty of all indicted was Limkokwing University, which was not in the interest of the people of Sierra Leone. Everything about its formation is corrupt

17 person of Interest on asset declaration where investigated by Justice Biobel they are:

(1) Madam Finda Diana Konomanyi

(2 ) Miatta Kargbo

(3) Ibrahim Washinga Mansaray

(4 ) Abdul Linoux Koroma

(5 ) Minkalu Mansaray

(6) Ahmed Kanu

(7 ) Alimamy Kamara

(8 ) Mabinty Daramy

(9 ) Bai Mahmoud Bangura

(10 ) Alfred Paolo Conteh

(11) Dr. Minkalu Bah

(12) Alimamy P. Koroma

(13) Mahmoud Tarawalli

(14 ) Dr. Richard Conteh

(15) Franklin Bai Kargbo

(16) Sulata Cooper

(17 ) Raymond Saidu Kargbo

14 of the asset of persons of interest of unexplained wealth where indicted

3 Person of interest asset discharged

All persons indicted who failed to declare their asset should serve an imprisonment of Six Months or pay 30 Million Leones… differential from the money they should refund

All persons of interest who declare their assets only once or twice have also been found guilty, but been discharged ( at least they try) said the Justice Biobele.

All property own by persons of interest that is within there earning are discharged

All accounts owned by persons of interest within there earning are discharged and giving access to them

All property acquired by persons of interest indicted with funds beyond there means of income, are products of unlawful and unjust enrichment, hence, their property would be forfeited to the Government and people of Sierra Leone

All forfeited property should be sold to any interested person in Sierra Leone at a fair value, and the money should be remitted immediately to the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Government of Sierra Leone

All funds in the bank account of persons indicted that's beyond there mean of earning must be forfeited to the Government of Sierra Leone, within 30 days from the date the recommendation is ratified

In the event anybody fails to return or repay the money Government shall use all law within its powers to confiscate all money own by that individual, either money in a bank account, or property moveable or immoveable including houses, vehicles, stocks belong to persons of interest, with the purpose of selling it, in order to pay the amount belonging to the people of Sierra Leone

All persons of interest that failed to attend the hearing of the Commission of Inquiries are thereby indicted and ban 5 years for holding public office

All persons of interest who are banned from holding public office, after there ban expired should write an apology letter to the people of Sierra Leone openly and publish in the various news-papers, and copy the justice department for its records

It is my hope that the Government of Sierra Leone under the leadership of H.E President Julius Maada Bio would recover all stolen money and property and return to the people of Sierra Leone

And these recommendations would serve as a reminder to all present Government Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Director-General, Permanent Secretary that corruption has no place in Sierra Leone any more and they should work purely for the benefit and interest of the people of Sierra Leone

The most guilty of all indicted was Limkokwing University, which was not in the interest of the people of Sierra Leone. Everything about its formation is corrupt

View fullsize

Examination of the Assets of Named Persons of Interest

Properties at Femi Turner, Goderich, and at Robureh, Makeni owned by former President Ernest Bai Koroma are to be confiscated as recommended by the Government White Papers on the Commissions of Inquiry. President Bio has instructed the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice to effect the recommendations of the Commissions of Inquiry and confiscate all assets as recommended and recover all monies to be returned to the people of Sierra Leone.

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