By: James Kamara-Manneh
The many rumor mongers on social media are saying that there is a planned protestor demonstration that should be held today 8th August 2022 have prompted the United States Embassy in Freetown to dispel such and described it as illegal.
The official website of the Embassy reads, “There is much chatter around town and on social media concerning Monday, August 8 and potential protests/demonstrations/strikes. Due to this, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) is deploying additional forces to strategic locations throughout Freetown on Monday. There have been no official demonstration requests submitted to the SLP and no specific locations have been identified for possible demonstrations”.
They believe that demonstrations/protests or strikes can only be held when the police give their consent to such in tune with the Laws of the Land, however, the Embassy employs all to stay safe and avoid crowd gatherings.
On the other hand, the Security Sector in their press release dated 6th August 2022 has urged all Sierra Leoneans to go about their normal business and not to pay heed to the calls of any “Faceless demonstrations.”
The release clarifies that the security sector has not at any time received any notification from any individual or organization purporting to stage a nationwide demonstration on the said date.
According to the release, it has assured all that the Security is above waters and that it will continue with its mandate to secure lives and properties, and that all necessary actions will be taken without fear or favor to stabilize the country.
