Chief Minister Sengeh Dismisses Reports of EU Action Against Sierra Leone as Misinformation

Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh has dismissed reports suggesting that the European Parliament has formally called on the European Commission to take action against Sierra Leone over alleged drug trafficking and extradition concerns, describing such reports as misinformation that should be challenged before they spread.

Speaking in response to public discussions surrounding alleged concerns raised by European lawmakers, Sengeh said it was the responsibility of citizens and authorities to counter what he characterized as false information and hold accountable those who disseminate it.

“When we see messages from our detractors yesterday sharing fake news that the European Parliament has written to the European Commission, it is our responsibility to debunk fake news, it is our responsibility to hold those people accountable,” Sengeh stated. “With misinformation, it is our responsibility to stop it before it spreads.”

The Chief Minister made the remarks amid growing political debate over allegations that Sierra Leone has come under increased scrutiny from European institutions regarding drug trafficking and the country’s handling of individuals linked to transnational organized crime.

Sengeh maintained that relations between Sierra Leone and the European Union remain strong and are founded on cooperation and mutual respect rather than speculation.

“We see headlines, we see newspaper articles, but the relationship between EU and Sierra Leone is a partnership built on mutual respect and cooperation, not rumors, not misinformation,” he said.

His comments came after the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament from the All People’s Congress (APC), Hon. Abdul Kargbo, publicly raised concerns about reports of discussions within the European Parliament relating to Sierra Leone.

According to Kargbo, the European Parliament is discussing possible sanctions and the suspension of development assistance to Sierra Leone over concerns about drug trafficking and the refusal to extradite individuals allegedly connected to transnational organized crime.

“The European Parliament is now openly discussing sanctions and the possible suspension of development assistance to Sierra Leone over growing concerns about drug trafficking and the refusal to extradite individuals linked to transnational organised crime,” Kargbo stated.

He described the matter as a serious warning that should concern all Sierra Leoneans and cautioned that any perception of Sierra Leone as a safe haven for drug traffickers could have consequences for the country’s economy, foreign relations, investor confidence and national security.

Kargbo further argued that the fight against narcotics must be credible, impartial and free from political interference if Sierra Leone is to maintain its standing within the international community.

However, Sengeh challenged the characterization of the situation, insisting that reports suggesting formal action by the European Parliament against Sierra Leone were inaccurate. He urged the public to verify information and avoid spreading unsubstantiated claims.

As of the time of reporting, no official statement from the European Commission regarding sanctions or the suspension of development assistance to Sierra Leone had been cited by either side in the public exchange.