By MB Jalloh
A long-standing conflict between the Muslim majority and the “Wonde” Secret Society in Gorama Mende Chiefdom, Kenema District, Eastern Sierra Leone, has escalated into a full-blown crisis.
Reports monitored from the Chiefdom indicate that the
Secret Society’s attempts to impose its rituals on the Muslim majority citizens of Gorama Mende Chiefdom have been met with resistance, leading to ongoing conflicts between the two groups.
The situation took a dire turn with the suspension of Paramount Chief Haja Mariama Gassama Kanja 1V and the appointment of a caretaker Chief, Wahid Kallon by Sierra Leone’s Local Government and Community Development Minister, Tamba Lamina a few days ago.
The suspension of Paramount Chief Haja Mariama Gassama Kanja IV, a Muslim herself, has sparked controversy, with many believing it’s a result of her stance against the Wonde Secret Society – an
allegation vehemently denied by government. The government cited a leadership gap and failure to provide leadership in the chiefdom as the reason for her suspension.
Paramount Chief Haja Mariama Gassama, according to reports, has previously used her wisdom to settle conflicts between the two factions amicably. Her suspension has significantly escalated tension in the Chiefdom with her supporters arguing that the suspension is “unjustified and politically motivated.”
A wave of violence has gripped Gorama Mende Chiefdom, as members of the Wonde Secret Society have allegedly attacked the Muslim community, targeting Imams who spoke out against the Society. Several victims, including Imams, have been stabbed, leaving many injured.
Fearing for their lives, numerous residents have fled the Chiefdom, seeking refuge elsewhere. The injured are reportedly receiving treatment at government hospitals in Kono and Magburaka.
Reports indicate that multiple Imams, Chiefs and prayer proclaimers (muezzins)
have been arrested, taken to Freetown, and incarcerated at the Pademba Road Correctional Centre. Latest reports from Freetown allege that the detainees are being subjected to torture in prison.
A senior member of the Muslim community in the eastern region described the detention as “unjust”, stating that the Imams are being held solely due to their religious leadership roles.
Despite a high-profile visit in the Chiefdom recently, the tension in the Chiefdom remains unchanged. This is concerning, given the delegation’s impressive lineup, including the Minister of Local Government, Minister of Internal Affairs, Inspector General of Police, Chief of Defense Staff, the National Coordinator, Office of National Security, the Senior District Officer (SDO), among others.
Their presence was expected to ease tensions, but it appears that the underlying issues remain unaddressed.
It’s unclear what specific steps the delegation took during their visit or what measures they proposed to resolve the ongoing tensions. However, it’s evident that their efforts have not yielded the desired outcome.
Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu has confirmed that the violent clash in the Chiefdom resulted in significant property damage, including the burning of houses, motorbikes and other valuable property.
The Police Chief confirmed the incident to me in a telephone interview last night, stating that the police are investigating the matter. Sellu assured that a detailed briefing will be provided to the public upon completion of the investigation.
Dr. Habib Sheriff, President of the United Council of Imams, has also confirmed that the incident has indeed been brought to their attention. He revealed that the matter has been reported to their regional office in Kenema, which will compile a report to be submitted to the head office in Freetown for further action.
Attempts to obtain comments from the Minister of Local Government and other stakeholders were unsuccessful.
Citizens of Gorama Mende Chiefdom, both within and outside the country, are calling on President Julius Maada Bio’s government to take immediate action to protect the rights of the Muslim community and other peaceful citizens, and to prevent further violence in the Chiefdom.
They are also demanding the immediate reinstatement of the Paramount Chief and calling for the establishment of effective conflict resolution mechanisms to promote harmony among community members.
Gorama Mende Chiefdom is located in Kenema District, Eastern Province, with Tungie as its capital. The chiefdom has experienced ongoing tensions between the Muslim majority and the Wonde Secret Society, highlighting the need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms to prevent further escalation.
