Albert Baron Ansu
Delivering his keynote in his capacity as Distinguished Worshipper on Armed Forces Day, February 18th, Chief Justice Edmond Babatunde Edwards did not mince word in drawing attention to the evolving transformation of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces.
Citing an indication of the tangible transformation, he alluded to the new shade of military colors that the officers donned saying: “you look like army; you look attractive…”
His remark elicited a round of applause from the audience at the forecourt of Cockerill Barracks.
He referred to the armed forces day as a worthy tradition, stressing that Sierra Leoneans are at the center of the celebration for which reason it has been set aside as a national holiday.
He also applauded the army for the resolve to remain united, reminding all that the occasion provided a moment of reflection about the event that led to the civil war adding that memory is instructive that never again must be relapse to war.
“This calls for change of behavior to one another and demonstration of unparalleled patriotism,” the Chief Justice intoned.
He used the occasion to reassure that the government is committed to boosting the welfare of the military as exhibited in results attained infrastructure, among other things.
He implored the leadership of the army to consider the extension of their mandate in contributing to food self-sufficiency agenda of government.
Earlier the Chief of Defense Staff Lieutenant General Sullay Ibrahim Sesay observed that the presence of the Chief Justice added value to the thanks giving program. He said the government set aside the day because of its importance in expressing gratitude to the men and women of RSLAF who have made sacrifice not only for Sierra Leone but the world at large. He applauded the array of partners that have helped in the restructuring of the army in multidimensional ways. The CDS said the Army will remain steadfast in loyalty and being apolitical with focus on defense mission for national stability.
Inter faith worship of Muslim and Christian clerics including sheikh Swaray and Bishop Akintola Sam Jollie, enhanced the solemnity of the program. Their nuanced messages were centered on the theme: God is our defense.
The program extended to the war grave yard, where wreaths were laid by various security sector leadership.
Lt. Col. Retired FS Gotor was in attendance to call out the list of officials in the security sector starting with the Defense Minister Kellie Conteh, the Inspector General of Police Ambrose Sovula, among others that laid wreath on the grave of the Unknown Soldier.
Also at the There was symbolic lighting of lamp by a widow and twenty one gunshot as part of the regimental requirement befitting the event.
Chief Justice Edmond Babatunde Edwards later received the parade salute at Lumley roundabout.