Independent Voices Silenced

Embattled President Julius Maada Bio, has unveiled his second-term cabinet with key appointments that raise concerns about the silencing of independent civil society voices. Among the appointments are renowned activists Chernor Bah and Dr. Isata Mahoi.

Chernor Bar, popularly known as Cee Bah, is the co-founder of Purposeful, a highly respected organization committed to empowering women and girls. Initially hailed as a triumph for civil society activism, his appointment as Minister of Information and Civic Education now raises suspicions that it serves a different purpose altogether.

While the public expects Cee Bah to act as a liaison between the government and the people, ensuring transparency and accountability, there are fears that his role will be twisted into that of a propaganda tool. It is believed that his impassioned advocacy for social justice will be suppressed, replaced by a scripted narrative echoing the president’s words. The government’s agenda, rather than the people’s interests, will guide his actions and public statements.

Dr. Isata Mahoi, the newly appointed Gender and Children’s Affairs Minister, previously demonstrated her commitment to women’s rights and combatting gender-based violence through her work with the West African Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP). However, her transition from civil society to the government is not expected to be smooth.

As she assumes her position, Dr. Mahoi will face the labyrinthine bureaucracy that often dilutes the impact of activism. She will be forced to compromise her previous bold and ambitious initiatives, succumbing to political maneuvering and compromises that leave the most vulnerable members of society without a strong advocate.

The appointments of Cee Bah and Dr. Mahoi appear to be carefully orchestrated to create an illusion of inclusivity and progress. However, beneath the surface, the independent voices of civil society have been effectively neutralized. The government has succeeded in co-opting prominent activists, effectively stifling their capacity to challenge the status quo and hold the government accountable.

Interestingly, these appointments come on the heels of a visit to the State House by a group of around 80 civil society organizations, including the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) and the Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law (CARL). Initially believed to be a congratulatory gesture, the event turned out to be a platform for these organizations to seek political appointments. The timing raises suspicions that the government exploited this opportunity to select compliant voices.

As we await more appointments, it is evident that true progress requires the restoration of genuine civil society participation, free from the clutches of state capture. The people need advocates who can fearlessly speak truth to power, rather than mere puppets perpetuating a charade. The fight for a truly inclusive and just society continues.