A Call to Action and Concern: Fullah Community’s Unmet Demands and Delayed Justice

Today, Tuesday, January 7th, 2025, marks exactly 20 days since the committee formed by the Fullah community in Sierra Leone held a press conference at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, addressing the unlawful arrest, harassment, intimidation, and inhumane treatment of Sierra Leonean Fullahs by elements of the Sierra Leone Police and Army. The unfortunate and unacceptable events have sparked deep concern within the Fullah community, and as we look back on these last few weeks, the frustration and disillusionment are palpable.

During that press conference, the committee presented three clear demands to the government:

1. The Government of Sierra Leone should publicly condemn these unlawful actions.

2. Fullah community stakeholders should meet with His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio to discuss these grave matters.

3. The government must expedite investigations into these incidents and hold all those responsible accountable in accordance with the law.

Yet, nearly three weeks have passed, and the Fullah community is deeply disappointed by the government’s response or lack thereof. There is a growing sense of betrayal among Fullahs across Sierra Leone. So, the question arises: who should be held accountable for this delay? Is it the committee that was set up by the Fullah community? Is it the government’s failure to act? Or is it a sign of the President’s lack of respect for the Fullah people?

Perhaps it is the weakness of the Fullah tribal leadership that has led to this prolonged silence. Or, could it be that the committee, tasked with representing the interests of the Fullah community, is simply failing in their duties?

One of the most painful and disrespectful developments in this situation occurred when Honorable Ibrahim Barrie raised a motion in Parliament to summon key officials, including the Inspector General of Police, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, and the Head of the Office of National Security (ONS), to answer for these injustices. Despite the motion being granted by the Speaker of Parliament, these officials have deliberately refused to honor the summons. This refusal raises critical questions: Is the government playing games with the Fullah people? Do they lack respect for the Fullah community?

The deliberate delay and evasion by the authorities suggest that the issue is being swept under the rug, with no real intention to address it seriously. This is a matter that cannot, and must not, be ignored. The Fullah community will not accept injustice, and we will not allow our voices to be silenced. Enough is enough.

It is time for the government to take concrete action. The delay in responding to the demands of the Fullah community not only undermines the trust and faith the community has in the government, but it also sends a dangerous message that such abuses can be tolerated. Justice must be served.

We demand accountability. We demand respect. We demand that the Fullah community’s rights and dignity be upheld.