ECOWAS Reaffirms Pledge to Safeguard Democracy in Sierra Leone

In a resolute stance to fortify democratic values in Sierra Leone, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Umar Touray, emphasized the unwavering commitment of the regional bloc to uphold democracy within the nation.
During a press conference convened at State House on Saturday evening, Touray underlined the solidarity demonstrated by the visit of President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana and President Macky Sall of Senegal. Their presence, according to Touray, serves as a robust testament to ECOWAS’ dedicated support for Sierra Leone following the recent attempted coup on November 26th.
Immediately following the failed coup, a high-level ECOWAS delegation, including the National Security Adviser of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who also chairs the ECOWAS Authority, visited Freetown. Touray clarified that the subsequent visit by the leaders was a continuation of the initial mission, aimed at reassuring Sierra Leone of ECOWAS’ steadfast commitment.
“This high-powered mission today follows up on our initial visit, reiterating ECOWAS’ dedication to the peace, security, development, and prosperity of Sierra Leone and the region,” Touray affirmed.
He stressed ECOWAS’ stance on zero tolerance for unconstitutional actions, highlighting the significance of the leaders’ visit on behalf of the ECOWAS Chair of Authority, ensuring Sierra Leone’s adherence to democracy and the rule of law. As a member of the ECOWAS Block, Sierra Leone’s adherence to democratic principles holds paramount importance in maintaining regional stability.
In response, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Kabba, conveyed gratitude on behalf of the government and citizens to ECOWAS for dispatching high-level delegations from Nigeria and ECOWAS in solidarity following the attempted coup.
“Today, yet another high-powered delegation from ECOWAS has reiterated their solidarity with our government and people. This visit is a testament to the unwavering support for Sierra Leone’s democratic values,” Kabba stated.
Emphasizing Sierra Leone’s pivotal role within ECOWAS, Kabba reiterated the nation’s commitment to upholding democratic ideals, expressing satisfaction in the ongoing collaboration between Sierra Leone and ECOWAS.
“We greatly appreciate this gesture, and through this press conference, we aim to keep our citizens informed and assure them that Sierra Leone stands firmly in partnership with ECOWAS,” Kabba concluded. MJB/25/12/2023