By: Mohamed Jalloh
President Julius Maada Bio has addressed the 78th session of the United Nations general assembly on the 20th September 2023 and he vehemently opposes all forms of external interference in African politics in general and Sierra Leone in particular.
Although he did not mentioned the name of the country but president Bio insinuated on the United States of America for taking unilateral coercive actions against Sierra Leoneans following the recently concluded June 24th election.
“It is regrettable to note the decision by certain member States to introduce unilateral coercive measures, including visa restrictions, on Sierra Leonean citizens following our recent multi-tier national elections. We observe that such unilateral measures, which are in contravention of international law, have sometimes been the response to electoral outcomes in other African nations to exert political pressure. As members of the international rules-based community, African States strive for sovereignty and meaningful cooperation based on mutual respect and understanding”, he lamented.
President Bio stated that in every democratic process, every democracy faces unique challenges. However, he noted further that the essence of sovereignty, as contained in the UN Charter, is the ability of Member States to address and resolve internal matters independently and without external pressure.
In the country`s engagements on the international stage, president Bio pointed out that he hopes for understanding and mutual respect, especially on important issues like national elections.
He emphasized on Constructive dialogue and open channels of communication to be the pillars of global interactions and not punitive unilateral coercive measures that do not further the entrenchment of democracy but instead strain relations between nations.
“Sierra Leone remains steadfast in its commitment to free, fair, and credible elections, alongside our dedication to the rule of law. We believe that democratic progress is a journey, and its pace varies from one nation to another. We respect the individual paths countries take in their quest for democracy and anticipate the same level of respect for ours. We aspire to nurture relationships rooted in solidarity, cooperation, and mutual respect, all directed towards a shared global future”, he explained.