Sierra Leone: Freetown’s new Mayor attacked at the ruling SLPP HQ

The Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr was aggressed by underlings in front of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party office in Freetown yesterday.

Ms. Aki-Sawyerr was attempting to make her way to her office at the Freetown City Council (which is near the SLPP’s Office) when she was attacked by thugs at the SLPP HQ.

Those who have followed the going ons at the SLPP party office over the years will note that that attacks of this kind have become synonymous with the vicinity of the office. It was not too long ago that Dr. Kandeh Yumkella and his mother were physically assaulted at the same location.

The SLPP leadership has allowed the party Office to be infested with lawless, hot-headed elements that harass and intimidate at will. It is not yet known whether those who acted the Mayor were acting on their own accord or because they received orders from above.

The Police should investigate and give this matter the urgency it requires. The SLPP office is a threat to the very leadership of the City as such it should be shut down until when it is safe and secure.

The SLPP party office is not an independent state with its own rules and laws. The level of lawlessness shown there by this shameful attack on the Mayor is appalling.

Perhaps this is the reason that President Maada Bio has not once visited the SLPP party office since he became President. Maybe even he is afraid of what awaits him should he venture there. This place is clearly a hideout for vandals and hoodlums and something has got to be done.

The assault on the Mayor of Freetown is unacceptable and the citizens of this City should not stand for it.

The Sierra Leone Police will be derelict of its duty if it did not close the Sierra Leone People’s Party Office down as they investigate this issue. They should also provide the Mayor with police personnel for her protection.

If the of Mayor of Freetown is not allowed to pass freely without intimidation then who is?

Below is a statement by the Mayor released via WhatsApp.

”Dear Freetonians,

I would like to once again thank God and thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as the Mayor of Freetown. I am passionate about our city and committed to working with the central government and with all Freetonians to transform Freetown.

Unfortunately I was verbally and physically assaulted yesterday by a few people who perhaps do not understand that I am the Mayor of *all* *Freetonians* and not some Freetonians. I strongly condemn all acts of violence and appeal to Freetonians to keep the peace at all times. Yesterday’s attack is being investigated by the Sierra Leone Police. Let me use this opportunity to thank the leadership of the Sierra Leone Police and the Minister of Internal Affairs for their support and interventions yesterday. I am confident that they will ensure that justice is done and seen to be done. I am also certain that the necessary steps will be taken to ensure my personal safety and that of all Freetonians.

We have so much to do as we forge the path to a transformed Freetown. I remain excited and committed to that vision. Let us continue the work with peace in our hearts and in our actions.

Fɔ Wi Kɔmyuniti
Fɔ Wi Progrɛs
Fɔ Wi Fritɔng