By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Prominent journalist and social commentator, Thomas Dixon, has called on the Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Sengepoh Solomon Thomas to join the fight on Drug in the country. He made this called when discussing pressing governance issues at Liberty Online TV.
Speaker Thomas had earlier called on Sierra Leoneans to be mindful of how they engage in online discussions about the growing drug menace, noting that exaggerated or inflammatory statements could tarnish the country’s international reputation. His remarks sparked a wave of reactions from various sectors of society, including journalists, civil society activists, and the general public.
Responding to the Speaker’s caution, Thomas Dixon acknowledged the importance of protecting Sierra Leone’s image abroad but emphasized that the drug problem has reached alarming proportions and requires urgent and transparent national dialogue. He drew attention to President Julius Maada Bio’s declaration of a state of emergency on the synthetic drug known locally as kush, stressing that such a move in itself underscores the gravity of the crisis.
“The Speaker’s concern about the nation’s image is valid, but we must not silence critical discussions,” Dixon said. “The drug problem is not a rumor; it’s a national emergency. President Bio himself declared a state of emergency, and that should tell us how serious the situation is.”
Dixon highlighted that several international media outlets have recently reported on the kush epidemic and other drug-related incidents in Sierra Leone, which, he said, are already shaping global perceptions of the country. He argued that the best way to safeguard Sierra Leone’s reputation is not by discouraging public discourse but by taking decisive and visible action to tackle the root causes of the crisis.
“These international reports are damaging, but they are also a call to action,” Dixon continued. “If the government shows strong leadership and results in addressing this issue, that is what will restore confidence, both at home and abroad. Silence or censorship will only make things worse.”
The journalist also raised concerns about gaps in law enforcement and accountability, particularly regarding the handling of high-profile drug investigations. He referenced ongoing discussions about a Netherlands-based drug kingpin known as Bolle Jo, whose alleged presence in Sierra Leone has attracted international attention.
According to Dixon, the authorities missed a crucial opportunity to apprehend “Umarr Sheriff,” a local individual allegedly linked to the matter. He argued that swift and coordinated action by law enforcement agencies could have sent a strong message that Sierra Leone is serious about combating drug trafficking and related crimes.
Dixon concluded by urging both government officials and citizens to approach the crisis with honesty, collaboration, and urgency. “We cannot talk about national image while young people are dying in our communities,” he said. “True patriotism means confronting the problem head-on, not sweeping it under the carpet.”
