Prominent Sierra Leonean lawyer Ady Macauley has strongly criticized the detention of two citizens who were allegedly arrested for attempting to lawfully exercise their constitutional right to protest.

In a statement shared on social media, Macauley expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of unjust arrests and detentions in the country.

The detention of two Sierra Leoneans for trying to use their constitutional right to protest lawfully adds to the many incidents of absurd arrests and detentions we’ve seen in recent years,” Macauley wrote.

He described the situation as reflective of increasing paranoia and oppression, warning that such actions could exacerbate societal discontent and divisions.“Paranoia and oppression can only cause more discontent and division. Why don’t they get it?” he questioned.