By Mackie M. Jalloh
As Sierra Leone faces critical decisions on its legislative future, calls for accountability and protection of democracy have reached a fever pitch. In an open letter to the leadership of the All Peopleโs Congress (APC) in Parliament, prominent party member Dr. Richard Konteh has issued an impassioned plea to reject the controversial Counter-Terrorism Bill 2024. The proposed legislation, which is being fast-tracked through Parliament, has sparked nationwide debates over its potential to erode democratic freedoms and constitutional rights.
Dr. Kontehโs letter comes at a time when Sierra Leone is navigating heightened political tensions and concerns about governance. His appeal to APC leaders highlights the urgency of preventing what he describes as a โdangerous overreachโ by the state that threatens to undermine the countryโs democratic foundations. By urging a stand against the Bill in its current form, Konteh positions the APC as a potential bulwark against authoritarianism.
The Counter-Terrorism Bill 2024 is intended to strengthen Sierra Leoneโs defences against threats to national security. However, Kontehโs analysis exposes critical flaws in the draft legislation, warning of its long-term consequences. He identifies five key areas of concern:
- Erosion of Constitutional Rights
ย Dr. Konteh raises alarms about the Billโs provisions that clash with Sierra Leoneโs 1991 Constitution, particularly its guarantees of free speech, peaceful assembly, and freedom of expression. He warns that the criminalization of dissent, under the guise of counter-terrorism, risks silencing activists, opposition parties, and ordinary citizens. โThese liberties are the bedrock of our democracy,โ he writes, โand must not be sacrificed for vague security measures.โ
- Unchecked State Powers
ย The Bill grants the government extensive authority to label individuals or organizations as โterroristsโ based on minimal evidence. Konteh criticizes the broad and ambiguous language, arguing that it opens the door to abuse. โThis is not counter-terrorismโit is a weapon for political suppression,โ he states.
- Threat to Media Freedom
The legislation has raised fears among journalists and media houses, as it criminalizes publications that could be interpreted as inciting terrorism. Konteh underscores the role of a free press in democracy, warning that such provisions would โmuzzle the media and prevent constructive criticism of government policies.โ
- Lack of Transparency and Public Engagement
The Billโs rapid progression through Parliament without consultation from civil society, legal experts, or ordinary citizens has drawn widespread criticism. Dr. Konteh questions the lack of transparency, urging lawmakers to consider the voices of the people before enacting such transformative legislation.
- Harm to National Reputation
Finally, Konteh cautions that the Bill could tarnish Sierra Leoneโs image on the international stage. By appearing to prioritize authoritarian control over democratic freedoms, the government risks alienating allies and undermining its standing as a maturing democracy.
In his letter, Konteh appeals directly to the leadership of the APC, emphasizing their responsibility to defend the constitution and the rights of Sierra Leoneans. โAs leaders, you have a duty to safeguard the principles of justice, freedom, and accountability,โ he asserts, calling for unity within the party to oppose the Bill in its current form.
Kontehโs plea is not just a call to reject the legislation but a broader appeal for visionary leadership. He urges APC members to consider the historical significance of their actions, reminding them of their role in shaping the legacy of Sierra Leoneโs democracy. โThe decisions we make today will define our countryโs future and our place in history,โ he writes.
Kontehโs letter captures the deep divide surrounding the Counter-Terrorism Bill 2024. While proponents argue that it is necessary to address modern security challenges, critics contend that its overreach could pave the way for authoritarianism. The APC, as a major opposition party, faces a pivotal moment in determining its stance and strategy.
As Sierra Leoneans watch closely, the outcome of this debate will set a precedent for how the nation balances security with democracy. Dr. Kontehโs letter serves as both a warning and a rallying cry, urging the APC to rise to the occasion and defend the freedoms that Sierra Leoneans have fought to secure.
โRejecting this Bill is not just about opposing bad legislationโitโs about standing up for the soul of our democracy,โ he concludes.
