Powered By EmbedPress ScanAfrik Forbundet https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHOmBV4js_Ehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHOmBV4js_E
Impunity on the Rise in Sierra Leone Impunity in Sierra Leone is becoming an increasingly troubling, affecting governance, human rights, and law enforcement. Despite the country’s progress since the end of its brutal civil war, many feel that accountability is slipping, with those in power seemingly above the law. From high-level corruption to suppression of free speech, and even connections to international criminal networks, the rise of impunity is fueling frustration among citizens and eroding trust in institutions. A Government That Protects Its Own? One of the most striking examples of impunity in Sierra Leone is the case of Lara Taylor-Pearce, the country’s highly respected Auditor General. In November 2021, President Julius Maada Bio suddenly suspended her after years of exposing corruption, including fraudulent spending during the Ebola pandemic. Despite an investigation that found no wrongdoing, she has remained sidelined. Many suspect her removal was a way to silence a whistleblower, raising fears that the government is more interested in protecting itself than ensuring accountability. Corruption is not just an isolated case but deeply entrenched in Sierra Leone’s system. Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Sierra Leone 114th out of 180 countries, highlighting the widespread problem. The lack of consequences for corrupt officials fuels a culture where those in power act without fear of repercussions. Freedom of Expression Under Threat The government’s control over freedom of speech has also tightened. A chilling example is the case of Hawa Hunt, a social media influencer arrested in December 2024 for allegedly making critical comments about the president and the first lady. Her arrest, which happened live on television, shocked many. Even more disturbing is that she has been denied bail, and there are growing concerns about her health while in custody. The heavy-handed treatment of Hunt is seen as a warning to others: speak against the government, and you could face the same fate. ​On March 11, 2025, Sierra Leone’s Parliament passed the Counter-Terrorism Act of 2024 to bolster national security by preventing and responding to terrorist activities. ​Facebook+1Facebook+1 Concerns Over Potential Misuse Opposition leaders and civil society groups have expressed apprehension regarding the Act’s broad definitions of terrorist acts, which encompass violence against persons, property damage, and other serious offenses. They fear that, without explicit exemptions for acts of advocacy, protest, dissent, and industrial actions, the law could be misapplied to suppress opposition groups, protesters, and individuals voicing dissent against the government. ​Cocorioko Notably, the 2011 African Union model counter-terrorism law includes specific exemptions for such acts to protect democratic freedoms. The absence of similar provisions in Sierra Leone’s legislation has raised concerns about potential infringements on fundamental human rights. ​Cocorioko+1Instagram+1 Implications for Civil Liberties The enactment of the Counter-Terrorism Act adds to concerns about impunity in Sierra Leone, particularly regarding government accountability and freedom of expression. Critics argue that, without proper safeguards, the law could become a tool for the government to silence dissent and target political opponents under the guise of combating terrorism. ​Cocorioko In summary, while the Counter-Terrorism Act of 2024 aims to enhance national security, its broad definitions and lack of explicit protections for legitimate forms of protest and dissent have raised fears about potential misuse, further exacerbating issues of impunity and the erosion of democratic freedoms in Sierra Leone. For a country that prides itself on democracy, this crackdown on free speech is alarming. Citizens fear Sierra Leone is moving towards authoritarianism, where even mild criticism is met with harsh retaliation. International Crime Thriving with Local Connections Perhaps one of the most shocking recent revelations is that Sierra Leone was unknowingly harboring one of Europe’s most wanted criminals—Dutch drug lord Jos Leijdekkers, known as “Bolle Jos.” Leijdekkers, a key figure in the notorious Mocro Mafia, was convicted in absentia for drug trafficking but was living freely in Sierra Leone, socializing with high-ranking officials. The scandal led to the dismissal of the country’s immigration chief, Alusine Kanneh, after footage surfaced showing him mingling with the fugitive. This incident has sparked serious questions: How did such a high-profile criminal operate in the country unnoticed? And more importantly, who else is benefiting from these connections? The fact that there is no extradition treaty between Sierra Leone and the Netherlands means that bringing Leijdekkers to justice remains challenging. His presence in the country is a disturbing sign that criminals with money and influence can easily escape accountability. A Justice System That Fails Its People For years, Sierra Leone has struggled with weak law enforcement and a judiciary plagued by corruption. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), set up after the civil war to investigate human rights violations, was supposed to bring justice and healing. However, many feel it fell short, leaving behind a system where criminals, corrupt officials, and human rights abusers continue to walk free. People have little faith that the courts will deliver justice, especially when cases involve powerful individuals. The police, often accused of bribery and excessive force, are seen as enforcers of the ruling class rather than protectors of ordinary citizens. When justice is only for the rich and powerful, what hope is left for the average person? Where Does Sierra Leone Go From Here? The rise in impunity is more than just a political issue—it affects the daily lives of Sierra Leoneans. When leaders act without consequences, speaking up can land you in jail, and when criminals can buy protection, the entire country suffers. The erosion of trust in institutions means that more people feel hopeless about real change. But all is not lost. Civil society groups and activists continue to push for reforms. International organizations are paying attention, and some brave individuals still speak out despite the risks. The question now is whether Sierra Leone’s leaders will listen or continue down a dangerous path where impunity becomes the norm. Read More: Sierra Leone’s immigration chief fired after drug lord scandal Concerns for social media influencer arrested on live TV Boss of Europe’s drug mafia found in Sierra Leone If Sierra Leone is to
African Cultures I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. Impunity on the Rise Bygbakanda00 March 5, 2025 Attitudinal Change,Political Economies,Post,Social Justice,Social Psychology Impunity on the Rise Bygbakanda00 March 5, 2025 African Culture Bygbakanda00 March 5, 2025 Top News Impunity on the Rise March 5, 2025 Attitudinal Change,Political Economies,Post,Social Justice,Social Psychology African Culture March 5, 2025 African Culture,Blog The Potential Impact of Emerging Global Political Realities on Resource-Rich but Underdeveloped Countries March 2, 2025 economics,Education,globaltrends,Perceptions,Political Economies,West Africa Google Blogger February 27, 2025 Blog,Google Blogger Impunity on the Rise March 5, 2025 Attitudinal Change,Political Economies,Post,Social Justice,Social Psychology African Culture March 5, 2025 African Culture,Blog The Potential Impact of Emerging Global Political Realities on Resource-Rich but Underdeveloped Countries March 2, 2025 economics,Education,globaltrends,Perceptions,Political Economies,West Africa Popular News Impunity on the Rise Bygbakanda00 March 5, 2025 … Impunity on the Rise March 5, 2025 Attitudinal Change,Political Economies,Post,Social Justice,Social Psychology African Culture March 5, 2025 African Culture,Blog The Potential Impact of Emerging Global Political Realities on Resource-Rich but Underdeveloped Countries March 2, 2025 economics,Education,globaltrends,Perceptions,Political Economies,West Africa Google Blogger February 27, 2025 Blog,Google Blogger Recent Topic Attitudinal Change,Political Economies,Post,Social Justice,Social Psychology Impunity on the Rise Bygbakanda00 March 5, 2025 Attitudinal Change,Political Economies,Post,Social Justice,Social Psychology … Editor’s Choice Impunity on the Rise Bygbakanda00 March 5, 2025 African Culture Bygbakanda00 March 5, 2025 The Potential Impact of Emerging Global Political Realities on Resource-Rich but Underdeveloped Countries Bygbakanda00 March 2, 2025 Weekly News Attitudinal Change,Political Economies,Post,Social Justice,Social Psychology Impunity on the Rise Bygbakanda00 March 5, 2025 Attitudinal Change,Political Economies,Post,Social Justice,Social Psychology African Culture,Blog African Culture Bygbakanda00 March 5, 2025 African Culture,Blog economics,Education,globaltrends,Perceptions,Political Economies,West Africa The Potential Impact of Emerging Global Political Realities on Resource-Rich but Underdeveloped Countries Bygbakanda00 March 2, 2025 economics,Education,globaltrends,Perceptions,Political Economies,West Africa Blog,Google Blogger Google Blogger Bygbakanda00 February 27, 2025 Blog,Google Blogger Anthropology,Beliefs,Education,Epigenetics,History,Upper Guinea,West Africa Bio’s Dangerous Playbook Unfolding in Sierra Leone Bygbakanda00 February 26, 2025 Anthropology,Beliefs,Education,Epigenetics,History,Upper Guinea,West Africa Blog,News Archive Bygbakanda00 February 26, 2025 Blog,News Post The Rationale for Chiefs as Arbitrators and Trustees of Resources in Sierra Leone Bygbakanda00 February 24, 2025 Post vlog RbnLiveTV Bygbakanda00 February 20, 2025 vlog Books,Post Books & Blogs Bygbakanda00 February 20, 2025 Books,Post Post Reuters News Bygbakanda00 February 20, 2025 Post Anthropology,Blog,Google Blogger,History,Political Economies,Upper Guinea,West Africa The Politics of Polarization in Sierra Leone: Navigating Division in a Culturally Homogeneous Society Bygbakanda00 February 17, 2025 Anthropology,Blog,Google Blogger,History,Political Economies,Upper Guinea,West Africa Anthropology,Blog,Google Blogger,Political Economies Understanding Poverty in West Africa Bygbakanda00 February 13, 2025 Anthropology,Blog,Google Blogger,Political Economies Post Revising Decentralization: The Role of Chiefdom Administrations, District Assemblies, Provincial Assemblies, and Chiefs in Sierra Leone Bygbakanda00 February 10, 2025 Post Post Caste Structures Among Mande-Speaking Groups in Sierra Leone and Their Role in Religious Practices Bygbakanda00 February 8, 2025 Post Anthropology,History,Political Economies,Upper Guinea,West Africa Reconstructing a Forgotten Empire and its Connection to the Mano River and Sierra Leone Bygbakanda00 January 19, 2025 Anthropology,History,Political Economies,Upper Guinea,West Africa Anthropology,Upper Guinea,West Africa The Anthropology of the Upper Guinea Coast (10th Century to Present) Bygbakanda00 January 19, 2025 Anthropology,Upper Guinea,West Africa Anthropology,Caste system,Upper Guinea,West Africa The Class and Respect Issues Among the Africans Bygbakanda00 January 9, 2025 Anthropology,Caste system,Upper Guinea,West Africa Beliefs,Caste system,Perceptions,Social Psychology,Upper Guinea,West Africa Falsehood,Deceptions , Lies and the Social Parameters informing Corruption and Development in Sierra Leone Bygbakanda00 January 5, 2025 Beliefs,Caste system,Perceptions,Social Psychology,Upper Guinea,West Africa Beliefs,Epigenetics,Social Psychology,Sociology The Historical and Recent Trauma Experienced by Sierra Leoneans: Behavioural Patterns Rooted in Survival Instincts Bygbakanda00 January 2, 2025 Beliefs,Epigenetics,Social Psychology,Sociology Cognative Psychology,Education,Mother Tongue The Role of Education in Advancing Development in Sierra Leone: A Focus on Cultural Integration, Mother Tongue Instruction, and Deductive Learning Bygbakanda00 January 1, 2025 Cognative Psychology,Education,Mother Tongue Post Show me your History;I’ll show you your greatness! Bygbakanda00 May 11, 2019 Post Daily Newsletter Get all the top stories from Blogs to keep track. Enter your e-mail Subscribe Top News Impunity on the Rise March 5, 2025 Attitudinal Change,Political Economies,Post,Social Justice,Social Psychology African Culture March 5, 2025 African Culture,Blog The Potential Impact of Emerging Global Political Realities on Resource-Rich but Underdeveloped Countries March 2, 2025 economics,Education,globaltrends,Perceptions,Political Economies,West Africa Google Blogger February 27, 2025 Blog,Google Blogger
Redemption Broadcast Network
 A Historical, Cultural, Political, and Economic Analysis   The role of chiefs as arbitrators and trustees of resources in Sierra Leone is deeply rooted in historical, cultural, political, and economic contexts. This paper explores the multifaceted rationale behind this authority, tracing its origins from pre-colonial governance to contemporary political structures. Utilizing historical documentation, cultural anthropology, and political economy perspectives, the article examines how traditional authority, colonial legacies, customary land tenure systems, political decentralization, and economic management have shaped chieftaincy roles. Challenges, including political interference and corruption, are analysed alongside the potential for ethical stewardship and sustainable resource governance. Recommendations for enhancing transparency and community trust are provided.  In Sierra Leone, chiefs have historically played crucial roles as arbitrators and trustees of communal resources, including land, forests, and minerals. Their authority is deeply embedded in historical, cultural, political, and economic systems, shaping local governance and resource management. Understanding the rationale behind this role necessitates an examination of the historical legitimacy of chieftaincy, the cultural significance of traditional authority, the political frameworks supporting local governance, and the economic strategies for resource control. This paper explores these dimensions, contextualizing the enduring relevance of chiefs in Sierra Leone’s socio-political landscape.  Historical Legitimacy and Traditional Authority Pre-Colonial Governance Structures In pre-colonial Sierra Leone, governance systems were decentralized yet organized through chieftaincy institutions. Chiefs were recognized as custodians of land and natural resources, governing through consensus with councils of elders and secret societies such as the Poro and Sande societies. Their legitimacy was derived from spiritual authority, lineage, and communal trust, allowing them to mediate conflicts and allocate land. This historical role established chiefs as the primary custodians of communal resources, creating a legacy of trust and authority that continues to influence modern governance (Fyfe, 1962; Rodney, 1970). Colonial Reinforcement of Chieftaincy The British colonial administration institutionalized the role of chiefs through the system of indirect rule, which recognized chieftaincy as a tool for local governance. By aligning traditional leadership with colonial authority, the British reinforced chiefs’ control over land and resources. This strategic collaboration ensured political stability and efficient tax collection while preserving indigenous governance structures (Crowder, 1968). The Hut Tax War of 1898, led by Bai Bureh, highlighted the complexities of this relationship, as some chiefs resisted colonial exploitation while others collaborated for political survival and economic benefit (Abraham, 1978). Post-Independence Continuity and Change After independence in 1961, Sierra Leonean governments continued to acknowledge chieftaincy as a legitimate institution. The 1991 Constitution and the Chieftaincy Act of 2009 reaffirmed the role of chiefs as custodians of land and culture, maintaining their authority in resource arbitration and local governance. However, political interference and elite capture have challenged traditional leadership, raising questions about transparency and accountability (Tangri, 1976).  Cultural Significance and Community Trust Chiefs as Embodiments of Indigenous Values Chiefs are more than political leaders; they are cultural symbols representing continuity with ancestral traditions. Their authority is rooted in indigenous values, customs, and identity, making them the embodiment of communal welfare and moral leadership. In rural communities, chiefs mediate conflicts using customary laws, which are often more accessible and relatable than statutory laws. This cultural legitimacy reinforces their role as trusted arbitrators of resources and land disputes (Mamdani, 1996). Mediation and Conflict Resolution Chiefs play a pivotal role in maintaining social harmony by mediating land disputes, resource conflicts, and communal tensions. Their knowledge of customary laws and local traditions enables them to provide culturally relevant solutions that formal courts may overlook. This function contributes to social stability and national peace, positioning chiefs as indispensable agents of local governance (Ribot, 2002).   Customary Land Tenure System Communal Ownership and Trusteeship In Sierra Leone, particularly in the provinces, land is governed by customary law rather than statutory law. Chiefs oversee land allocation, ensuring equitable distribution among community members. Land is considered communal property, held in trust by chiefs on behalf of their people. This system reinforces the role of chiefs as trustees, balancing individual land rights with communal interests (Unruh, 2008). Challenges and Controversies Despite its cultural relevance, the customary land tenure system faces challenges, including elite capture, gender discrimination, and political manipulation. Chiefs have been accused of exploiting their trusteeship roles by selling communal land without community consent, leading to conflicts and social unrest. These controversies highlight the need for transparent and accountable land governance systems that balance tradition with modern legal frameworks (Fanthorpe, 2001).  Political Decentralization and Local Governance Legal and Constitutional Recognition Sierra Leone’s governance structure includes chieftaincy institutions legally recognized under the Chieftaincy Act of 2009. Chiefs serve as intermediaries between the government and rural communities, ensuring that development policies reflect local needs. Decentralization policies have reinforced their role in managing community resources and development projects, maintaining political stability in rural areas (Fanthorpe, 2006). Political Influence and Accountability Issues However, political interference has undermined the independence of chiefs. Successive governments have manipulated chieftaincy elections, appointing loyalists to secure political influence in rural constituencies. This politicization of traditional leadership has compromised accountability and community trust, necessitating reforms to protect chieftaincy institutions from political manipulation (Jackson, 2006).  Economic Management and Resource Control Trusteeship of Natural Resources Chiefs oversee the distribution of natural resources, including land, forests, and minerals. In some cases, they negotiate agreements with investors, ensuring that local communities benefit from resource extraction. By acting as trustees, chiefs can advocate for sustainable resource use and protect communal interests from exploitation. This economic role enhances their political influence and reinforces their traditional authority (Richards, 1996). Economic Challenges and Corruption Allegations However, economic mismanagement and corruption have plagued chieftaincy institutions. Chiefs have been accused of misappropriating resource revenues and engaging in exploitative land deals with foreign investors. These practices have fueled social conflicts and economic inequalities, undermining the credibility of traditional leadership (Reno, 1995).  Conclusion and Recommendations The rationale for chiefs as arbitrators and trustees of resources in Sierra Leone is deeply rooted in historical legitimacy, cultural significance, legal recognition, and political decentralization. However, challenges such as political
Lumary RGBAI Lighting systems
African News Facebook Twitter Youtube Whatsapp Instagram
 Sierra Leone is a nation that embodies a paradox of cultural unity and political fragmentation. Despite being one of the most culturally and religiously homogeneous countries in Africa, the country remains deeply polarized along regional and partisan lines. The dominant Islamic faith and the Fulani-Mande cultural foundation create profound commonalities among Sierra Leone’s major ethnic groups, including the Mende, Temne, Limba, and Mandingo. Inter-ethnic marriages, the widespread use of common surnames, and the overlapping linguistic traditions suggest that the country should, in theory, have a strong sense of national unity. However, political fragmentation has persisted as a significant challenge, sustained by historical legacies, elite manipulation, and institutional weaknesses. Unlike many African nations where ethnic and religious divisions are the main sources of conflict, Sierra Leone demonstrates how political identity can override cultural commonalities, fuelling instability.   Political polarization in Sierra Leone has been reinforced through decades of historical, colonial, and post-colonial political manoeuvring. The two dominant parties, the All People’s Congress (APC) and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), have historically entrenched regional loyalties and reinforced a winner-takes-all system of governance. This political culture has created an environment where electoral victories often lead to the systematic exclusion of the opposition, heightening political tensions and fostering long-term instability. To understand why these divisions, persist despite a shared cultural foundation, it is essential to examine Sierra Leone’s historical trajectory, the role of secret societies, the importance of inter-ethnic surnames, and the ways political elites have strategically manipulated these identities to maintain power.   The political divisions in Sierra Leone have deep roots in the colonial governance structures established by the British. The colonial rulers implemented a dual system of governance, in which the north was governed through indirect rule—granting significant administrative power to local chiefs—while the south and east were subjected to direct rule under colonial officers. This system created significant economic and infrastructural disparities between the two regions, fuelling political competition and long-term rivalries (Bangura, 2015).   At independence in 1961, these colonial divisions continued to shape Sierra Leone’s political landscape. The SLPP, which had led the independence movement, was largely associated with the Mende-dominated south and east, while the APC, founded in the 1960s, built its political base in the predominantly Temne and Limba northern regions. Over the decades, political power has oscillated between these two dominant parties, each reinforcing regional loyalties and prioritizing its strongholds over national governance.   The civil war (1991–2002) further aggravated these divisions. While the war was driven by grievances related to corruption, economic marginalization, and centralized governance, it was also heavily influenced by regional factionalism. The Revolutionary United Front (RUF) insurgency, initially framed as a rebellion against state corruption, became deeply entangled in regional power struggles. Though the war ended in 2002, the mistrust it cultivated between political actors has continued to shape electoral politics and governance, making it difficult for the country to move beyond regional partisanship.  Despite the deep political divisions, Sierra Leone remains remarkably homogeneous in cultural and linguistic identity. One of the strongest indicators of this shared heritage is the prevalence of common surnames across ethnic groups. Names such as Koroma, Kamara, Conteh, Bangura, Fofanah, and Sesay are widely used among the Temne, Limba, Mandingo, and Mende peoples. These surnames have deep historical origins, tracing back to Fulani, Senegambian, Konyaka, Malinke, and Gbandi-Loko migrations that shaped Sierra Leone’s demographics.   The Koroma surname is particularly significant. While commonly associated with the Limba and Temne, it is also found among the Mende-speaking population. This widespread presence reflects the extensive influence of Mande heritage across Sierra Leone. Historically, the Koroma name has been linked to warriors, traders, and political leaders who played crucial roles in both pre-colonial and colonial Sierra Leone. Its presence across ethnic groups also suggests historical ties to the Mali and Songhai Empires, which facilitated the spread of Mande culture, language, and surnames across West Africa.   Similarly, the Fofanah surname, widely associated with the Mandingo, Temne, and Mende, has strong Senegambian roots. Many Fofanah families trace their lineage to Fulani-Mande Islamic scholars and traders who migrated southward from Mali and Guinea into Sierra Leone. Their integration into different communities over centuries led to the widespread adoption of the Fofanah name across various ethnic groups. Many individuals bearing the Fofanah name have historically played key roles in Islamic scholarship, governance, and commerce.   The Sesay surname is another example of a Mande-Senegambian name that has been adopted across multiple ethnic groups in Sierra Leone. Like the Fofanah name, Sesay is historically linked to Malian and Senegambian expansions, particularly during the height of the Mali Empire’s trade networks. Families with the Sesay name were influential in establishing trade routes, religious schools, and political networks, facilitating economic and social integration across different regions. The name’s widespread presence across various districts reinforces the idea that Sierra Leone’s ethnic groups have long been connected through trade, migration, and intermarriage.   Beyond surnames, place names in Sierra Leone also reflect Mande, Fulani, and Senegambian influences. The Koya region, which exists in both Port Loko and Kenema districts, directly references the Mane warriors who established strongholds in Sierra Leone and the broader Mano River Union region. The recurring names Gbendembu (in Bombali) and Nongowa (in Kenema) highlight the influence of Gbandi, Loko, and Mande-speaking groups in shaping Sierra Leone’s geographic and cultural landscape. The place name Sumbuya, found in almost every district, further underscores the deep historical interactions that have shaped Sierra Leone’s modern identity. One of the most enduring cultural institutions that binds Sierra Leone together is the predominance of Mande secret societies, particularly the Poro and Sande societies. These secret societies, which originated from the broader Mande cultural sphere, have played a critical role in shaping political, spiritual, and social life in Sierra Leone.   The Poro society, which is primarily for men, functions as an institution of governance, education, and moral regulation. It serves as a training ground
