In a bid to foster better synergy and a good working relationship with the Sierra Leone Police, the All Political Parties Association (APPA), on Tuesday 9th August 2022, paid a courtesy call on the Inspector General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu at Police Headquarters in Freetown.
Speaking on the purpose of the visit, the National Chairman of APPA, Mr. Osman Koroma intimated that it was to congratulate the IGP on his new appointment and to reassure him of their fullest commitment and support in his drive to effectively manage and secure the State and its citizens.
He maintained that they, as an association, believe in the rule of law and institutions, as enshrined in the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone.
He stressed that APPA is not an opposition platform to condemn or bash the government but rather to complement the developmental strides of the government for a better Sierra Leone. Adding, that APPA can as well be critical of the government’s wrongdoings and can condemn, where appropriate.
Mr Koroma noted that they are ready to work with the Inspector General of Police in his quest to have free, fair and transparent policing of the 2023 elections
In response, IGP William Fayia Sellu welcomed and thanked APPA membership for the courtesy call and the recognition.
He admitted that the visit was his first official engagement, following his parliamentary approval on Thursday 4th August 2023.
Mr. Sellu also reaffirmed his commitment to work closely with APPA, especially in the area of information sharing; for effective policing and promised to stay connected and maintain a cordial working relationship with the Association.
Nevertheless, he urged the membership to always engage him when there are issues bordering on the police, rather than taking the path of confrontation.
He gave a synopsis of security measures put in place to mitigate and salvage the potential threat posed by a planned demonstration spearheaded by some faceless people; noting, that it is the responsibility of the SLP to maintain internal security.
Meanwhile, he encouraged the APPA’s membership and anyone intending to stage any demonstration or protest/procession to, first of all, apply for police clearance. The rationale, he said, is to allow the Police leadership to vet and engage the leaders of the would-be demonstration; taking into account some ethical issues to deal with. “I will not allow any person or group of persons to disrupt the peace and stability of the state” he noted.
He frowned against using social media to call for demonstrations or resorting to violence to express grievances.
The IGP expressed his commitment to continue to engage civil society organizations and other institutions in ensuring effective policing services.
SLP Media Team
