The August 2022 protests: in search of justice and closure
It has been a year since the tragic August protests in which dozens of civilians and six police officers were killed. In typical Sierra Leonean fashion, the anniversary of this tragedy passed quietly. No public acknowledgements, no memorials. Those who lost loved ones in the incident had to remember their family members and relatives in […]
That travesty of a funeral
The Government’s shameful handling of the burial of 27 civilians killed by security forces during the August 10 protests has sparked another public outrage. After keeping them for more than two months, the government decided to bury the remains of the victims in what was officially described as a “state-led” burial. A ceremony that gave […]
The Jamiru way or the ‘Pao-pa-riat’ route, Mr. President?
When August 10 happened, many people looked up to President Bio to lead the nation out of the horror and fear that gripped the country. There were calls for him to return home and talk to the nation, hoping that he would reassure citizens, diffuse the tensions and chart a path for dialogue. He did […]