CHRDI Accuses Gov’t

The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has leveled serious allegations against the government of Sierra Leone, accusing it of stifling freedom of expression and peaceful protest. In a statement released today, CHRDI highlighted its attempts to engage with authorities, including the Sierra Leone Police and the Leadership of the Security Sector, to seek approval for a peaceful protest scheduled for March 25, 2024.

Despite these efforts, CHRDI lamented that the Sierra Leone Police barred them from conducting their planned demonstration. The decision, made on March 21, 2024, has sparked outrage within the organization, with CHRDI condemning the government’s apparent reluctance to tolerate dissenting voices.

“This decision underscores the government’s unwillingness to allow any form of public protest against its actions,” read the statement from CHRDI. “It is a clear indication of the authorities’ stance on suppressing freedom of expression and peaceful dissent.”

Furthermore, CHRDI criticized the government’s handling of democratic processes, noting that while claiming to advance democratic development, it continues to clamp down on peaceful protests and legal gatherings expressing disapproval of government policies.

The organization’s protest is in response to recent actions by the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, which CHRDI deemed unlawful. The dissolution of the University of Sierra Leone Court without legal basis and the appointment of an unauthorized Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal were cited as examples of government overreach.

According to CHRDI, such actions violate constitutional rights outlined in the Sierra Leone constitution. While the government may not always agree with the populace exercising their rights, CHRDI emphasized the government’s obligation to ensure a secure environment for peaceful protests, as stipulated in the constitution.

The denial of the right to peaceful protest by the Sierra Leone Police was met with condemnation from CHRDI, who described the justification provided as “weak and lazy.” CHRDI underscored that the Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of assembly but noted that this right is not absolute and may be subject to limitations for public safety and the protection of others’ freedoms.

Sierra Leone, as a signatory to international human rights instruments such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, is obligated to uphold the right to peaceful assembly. CHRDI highlighted the importance of adhering to these commitments to protect citizens’ rights.

In conclusion, CHRDI reiterated the fundamental nature of the right to peaceful protest, stating that it is not a privilege but a cornerstone of democracy. The organization vowed to continue advocating for the protection of these rights and holding the government accountable for its actions.