By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
The Southern Region has heightened its security preparedness ahead of key chieftaincy declaration and election processes, with the Regional Police Commander South, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Andrew Mustapha Kamara, leading a series of strategic security engagements aimed at ensuring peace, stability, and public confidence across the region.
The engagements, held on Tuesday, 2 June 2026, form part of proactive measures by the Sierra Leone Police to strengthen law and order and prevent potential security challenges associated with traditional leadership transitions, particularly in areas where chieftaincy matters continue to attract significant public interest.
The day’s activities began at the Southern Regional Police Headquarters in Bo, where AIG Kamara convened a high-level meeting with frontline commanders from the Bo West Division, Bo East Division, and the Regional Headquarters.
Discussions focused on key security concerns within the region, including the Kagboro security situation, the Bumpeh Gao Paramount Chieftaincy matter, and preparations for the forthcoming Sahn Malen Chieftaincy Declaration and Election in Pujehun District.
Addressing the commanders, AIG Kamara emphasized the importance of vigilance, professionalism, intelligence-led policing, and effective operational coordination in addressing emerging security threats and maintaining public order.
He reminded officers that the role of the Sierra Leone Police extends beyond law enforcement to include peacebuilding, public reassurance, and the preservation of national stability.
“The effectiveness of policing lies in unity, discipline, professionalism, and our collective commitment to protecting lives and property,” AIG Kamara stated, urging commanders to strengthen collaboration and remain proactive in responding to security developments within their respective jurisdictions.
He further stressed the need for officers across the Southern Region to operate as a unified force dedicated to safeguarding peace, maintaining public order, and strengthening public confidence in the security sector.
Also addressing the meeting, the Deputy Regional Commander South, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Mrs. Fatty Daboh Kamara, encouraged commanders to remain committed, disciplined, and focused in the discharge of their duties.
ACP Kamara emphasized that professionalism, responsible leadership, integrity, and quality service delivery are essential to strengthening public trust and confidence in the Sierra Leone Police. She urged officers to uphold the highest standards of discipline, accountability, and dedication to duty.
In response, frontline commanders expressed appreciation for the strategic guidance provided by AIG Kamara and reaffirmed their commitment to implementing effective operational measures to maintain peace, security, and public order throughout the region.
Later that day, AIG Kamara led a broader stakeholders’ engagement in Sahn Town, Malen Chiefdom, under the auspices of the District Security Committee (DISEC). The meeting formed part of an extensive threat assessment exercise ahead of the Chieftaincy Declaration scheduled for 4 June 2026 and the subsequent election process.
The engagement brought together aspiring chieftaincy candidates, the Regent Chief, traditional leaders, section and community stakeholders, representatives of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) 14 Battalion in Pujehun, officials of the Office of National Security (ONS), and other relevant stakeholders.
Also in attendance was the Resident Minister South, Mr. John Abu, whose participation underscored the Government’s commitment to ensuring peace, stability, and democratic governance throughout the chieftaincy process.
National Security Coordinator Mr. Avayama Caulker also participated in the discussions and emphasized the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in preserving peace and stability before, during, and after the declaration and election process.
Addressing participants, Resident Minister South, Chief John Abu, called on contestants, supporters, and residents of Malen Chiefdom to prioritize peace, unity, and development above personal interests.
He urged all parties to demonstrate tolerance, mutual respect, and lawful conduct, emphasizing that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and stability.
Speaking further, AIG Kamara reaffirmed the Sierra Leone Police’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a peaceful, transparent, free, fair, and credible declaration and election process.
He warned against violence, intimidation, provocation, hate speech, or any other actions capable of undermining public peace and social cohesion. He also called on candidates and their supporters to cooperate fully with security personnel and conduct themselves responsibly throughout the process.
Stakeholders unanimously echoed calls for tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and strict adherence to the rule of law, while cautioning against any actions that could disrupt the prevailing peace in Malen Chiefdom.
Participants warmly welcomed the engagement and pledged their full cooperation with security authorities to ensure that the declaration and election process is conducted peacefully, successfully, and without disruption.
The engagements concluded with renewed commitments from police commanders, traditional leaders, security stakeholders, and community representatives to work collectively toward safeguarding peace, unity, and stability across the Southern Region.
Observers described the engagements as a strong demonstration of proactive leadership and effective security planning by the Southern Regional Police Command, further boosting public confidence in the region’s preparedness to manage emerging security concerns.
As the Southern Region prepares for these important traditional leadership transitions, stakeholders maintained that sustained collaboration, vigilance, and responsible leadership will remain essential to preserving peace, strengthening democratic governance, and promoting sustainable development.