By: Ilyasa Baa
The Coalition of Civil Society and Human Right Activists – Sierra Leone (CCSHRA-SL) has vehemently condemned the misuse of social media by some citizens and political party leaders, praising the Vice President, Dr. Mohammed Juldeh Jalloh for the timely manner in responding to the August 10 2022 violent demonstration in some parts of the country.
According to the press release dated 13th August and signed by the Chairman, Charles Mambu, members of the Coalition held a meeting to discuss the infamous riot and make recommendations to prevent what happened from taking place again.
” We sincerely commend the action of the Vice President; his timely broadcast to the nation, imposition of the curfew and invoking Military Aid to Civil Power (MAC-P)”, the release states, adding that last week riot was a total unwarranted attack on the democracy the country has been practicing. The release further states that the riot was well planned long before it was carried out that Wednesday. The Coalition holds the view that the wide range of publicity carried out by the security sector did not fully correspond with maximum preparation and response on the day of the attack.
The misuse of social media and children as perpetrators of violence has also been denounced by the Coalition as unacceptable in society.
Nevertheless, the Coalition has called on government to review the country’s intelligence structure and has also called on the international community to continue their supports towards peace and democracy in the country.
“We wish to assure President Dr. Julius Maada Bio that we will continue to support democracy, human rights and the peace of citizens at all time”, the release concluded.
As for those who lost their lives during the riot, the Coalition has extended its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and also called for speedy trial of those found wanting under the rule of law.
