The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, has expressed her deep concern regarding the violent incidents that occurred in certain areas of Freetown on Sunday, November 26, 2023.
In a statement, Scotland strongly condemned the actions of individuals who broke into the Military Armoury at the Wilberforce barracks in Freetown. She emphasized that such acts of violence are completely unacceptable.
Scotland acknowledged that the violence has saddened the entire Commonwealth family, especially considering the significant progress that Sierra Leone has made in recent years. She highlighted the ongoing sincere and fruitful dialogue between the government, opposition, and various democratic institutions and stakeholders, which aims to strengthen unity, peace, constitutional order, democratic governance, and national development.
The Secretary-General described the violence as a betrayal of the courage, resilience, integrity, and love that make Sierra Leone unique. She called upon all Sierra Leoneans to reject violence and collaborate towards building a more peaceful and prosperous future for their nation.
Scotland reiterated the Commonwealth’s unwavering support for President Maada Bio and his administration. She emphasized that the Commonwealth will continue to facilitate the ongoing dialogue process initiated in August 2022. She expressed her hope for the restoration of peace in Sierra Leone.
Scotland reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s commitment to facilitating the dialogue process in Sierra Leone, which began in August 2023. She expressed optimism that peace will be restored in the country.
