By Alusine Fullah
In a bid to uphold stability, unity, and professionalism within the Sierra Leone Armed Forces (SLAF), Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Peter Lavahun has delivered a cogent address to troops stationed in the Western area. Amid recent developments involving the arrest of several officials based on intelligence and credible evidence, Lieutenant General Lavahun emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline, refraining from political entanglements, and focusing on their core mandate of safeguarding Sierra Leone and its people.
Over the past weeks, Sierra Leone was abuzz with news of the arrest of six officials from various regions. These arrests were carried out based on intelligence and substantial evidence, aimed at curbing potential threats to the nation’s stability. Addressing the matter head-on, Lieutenant General Lavahun dismissed speculations that the arrests were motivated by political factors. He underlined that the arrests were solely based on the individuals’ potential involvement in actions that could destabilize the nation.
Lavahun stressed the importance of the rule of law and evidence-based decision-making. He reiterated that the actions taken against the arrested officials were driven by credible evidence rather than political affiliations. By highlighting the significance of adhering to due process and relying on factual information, he aimed to reassure the public that the SLAF remains committed to upholding justice and integrity. He said: “The arrest of three officials in the Kabala District served as a reminder of the authorities’ commitment to curbing potential threats. Through this action, the SLAF demonstrated its dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that individuals involved in actions that could jeopardize stability are held accountable…”
Lieutenant General Lavahun made a fervent plea for unity. He stated that the focus should be on Sierra Leone’s interests as a nation rather than divisive political allegiances. By doing so, he aimed to steer the discourse away from unnecessary polarization and maintain a collective effort towards progress and development.
Since during elections to date, the security system in Sierra Leone has been a bit shaking. In nexus to that, it is also evident that the security sectors are gravely feeling the weight of some people who want to undermine the peace and tranquility of the state.
In line with the foregoing, the Sierra Leone Police on their press released that was on the 31st July, 2023 informed the general public that certain individuals including senior military officers are undermining the peace and tranquility of the state. The release states: “The general public is hereby informed that the security sector has been following intelligence regarding the activities of certain individuals, including senior military officers working to undermine the peace and tranquility of the state and unleash violence on peaceful citizens of Sierra Leone…” Meanwhile, the Sierra Leone mentioned preliminary investigations revealing that these individuals are planning to use purported peaceful protests between 7th to 10 August 2023 as a guide to unleash violent attacks against state institutions and peaceful citizens.
