A coalition of civil society organisations in Sierra Leone has issued a joint statement warning against the politicisation of the country’s security forces and calling for a commitment to peaceful, credible elections ahead of 2028.
The statement, released today, comes amid recent controversial remarks by political figures, including SLPP Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa, who allegedly suggested military action against the opposition APC, and Opposition Whip Abdul Karim Kamara, whose comments evoked the possibility of post-election conflict. Civil society leaders described these statements as “alarming rhetoric” that threatens peace, erodes trust in the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), and risks reigniting societal divisions.
In the statement, the organisations emphasised that the security sector must remain neutral, apolitical, and subordinate to civilian authority, serving all citizens equally. They cited Section 165(2) of the Constitution, the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy, and the African Charter on Democracy as legal frameworks underpinning this principle.
“History reminds us of the perils of politicising our security forces,” the statement said. “The civil war from 1991 to 2002, which claimed over 50,000 lives and displaced tens of thousands, was exacerbated by political interference in the military.” The groups also referenced the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), which in its final report identified political manipulation of the security sector as a root cause of the conflict and recommended strict separation of the military from partisan politics.
The organisations stressed the need for political leaders to prioritise national development, youth empowerment, education, and employment over divisive rhetoric. They urged government authorities and the RSLAF to publicly reaffirm their apolitical stance, and called on the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL), the judiciary, international partners, the media, and citizens to promote accountability and safeguard electoral integrity.
“We remain committed to monitoring developments, supporting institutions that uphold the rule of law, and defending a constitutional order that prioritises the welfare of all Sierra Leoneans,” the statement concluded.
The joint statement was signed on behalf of multiple civil society groups, including 50/50 Group of Sierra Leone, African Women’s Leaders Network (Sierra Leone Chapter), Budget Advocacy Network, Campaign for Good Governance, Campaign for Human Rights and Development International, Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice, Institute of Governance Reform, The Lawyers Society, and the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists.
