The long-anticipated news that the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces Ex-Service Men (RSLEM) have been yearning for was last Friday 16th June this year, made public at a joint security sector presser at the Office of National Security (ONS) conference hall at Tower Hill, Freetown.
Major-General Alfred D. Alpha in a statement for and on behalf of the leadership of the RSLAF, said they have been working overtime to ensure that the Ex-Service Men Association become a corporate body.
He made the statement whiles addressing media, representatives of Civil Society Organizations, local and international elections observers on the militaryβs state of preparedness ahead of the countryβs elections.
He underscored the need for bring ex-service men together going forward in the countryβs peace and democratic process, adding that the RSLAF has called for the regional registrations of Ex-Service Men.
Major-General Alpha continued that the RSLAF has so far registered nine hundred and seventy-five (975) Ex-Service Men with registration ongoing in Benjuima Barracks.
As for serving personals, we view the restructuring and setting of up of the Ex-service Association to a corporate body as an advantage because they will one day become an Ex-service person.
He agreed that there are lot of disconnection, however, RSLAF is working to get them up and running.
He further disclosed that the association has started attracting funding.
βThe Ex-Service Men had played a role, hence the need to uphold them as heroes and accord them the respect they desire in the state,β Β Major General Alfred D. Alpha.
They furthered the military in elections roles sound clear as enshrined in the 1991 constitution.
He said the military will provide support to the police when and as the need arises.
He reaffirmed assurance to political parties contesting the upcoming polls and the public of a secure and safe elections and handing over of power to the wining president.
