The continuous harassment of supporters of the All People’s Congress (APC) party by supporters of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has been increasing daily. Reports indicate that shortly after the announcement of the 24 June 2023 presidential election results when Chief Electoral Commissioner Mohamed Konneh declared President Julius Maada Bio the winner on 27 June 2023 APC supporters have faced serious humiliation, harassment, and violence. Some have even been beaten to death, while others have had their houses burned down because of their political affiliation.

One such victim is Eric Aitkins, a strong APC supporter. After the announcement of the election results, SLPP supporters reportedly stormed his residence at No. 11 Bath Street, Brookfields, Freetown, looking for him due to his long-standing involvement in APC political activities, particularly during the 2023 campaign. Fortunately, Eric had already left the country, anticipating that SLPP supporters might target him if they won the election.

In his absence, SLPP supporters allegedly attacked his younger brother, Max Aitkins Jr., pushing him down the steps, breaking his right leg, and beating him unconscious. He was admitted to the hospital but later died from his injuries. Eric Aitkins’ family has since continued to face harassment and humiliation.

Given the increasing human rights violations in the country, it is imperative for the international community, human rights activists, and civil society organizations to intervene to end such abuses and ensure that citizens can participate freely in the nation’s politics without fear of persecution.