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Chief Minister David Sengeh has addressed musician Nasser Ayoub’s recent request for the issuance of a diplomatic passport to fellow artist The Therapist.
This appeal came after The Therapist was unable to attend the prestigious Afro Nations music festival in Portugal due to visa issues.
Nasser Ayoub made his comments on Facebook, highlighting the challenges faced by Sierra Leonean artists in obtaining visas for international events. The Afro Nations festival, known for showcasing diverse musical talent from around the globe, is a significant platform that many Sierra Leonean creatives aspire to be part of. The inability of The Therapist to attend has sparked discussions about the broader issue of visa accessibility for artists from Sierra Leone.
In his response, posted on his own Facebook page, Chief Minister Sengeh clarified that the authority to issue diplomatic passports lies with His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio. He emphasized that while he acknowledges the artistic and entrepreneurial talents of young Sierra Leoneans, the final decision on diplomatic passports rests with the President.
The discussion surrounding The Therapist’s visa issues has ignited a broader debate online about the potential benefits of granting diplomatic passports to Sierra Leonean creatives.
Advocates argue that such passports could significantly ease travel restrictions, allowing artists to participate in global events without the hassle of visa applications. This could not only enhance their careers but also elevate Sierra Leone’s cultural presence on the world stage.
