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The Citizens Advocacy Network (CAN) has responded to a press statement issued by the Sierra Leone Police on 20 August 2026 concerning the proposed protest and procession scheduled for Wednesday, 26 August 2026.
CAN has categorically clarified that it was never formally invited to any meeting by the Sierra Leone Police in relation to the proposed protest and procession.
According to CAN, any suggestion or communication to the public implying that the organisation was formally invited to, or engaged in, a meeting with the Police concerning the matter is untrue and misleading.
CAN acknowledged that the Police may have relied on a telephone call made to an individual regarding a possible meeting. However, the organisation maintained that a telephone call from an anonymous caller, without clear identification, official authorisation, confirmation of the purpose of the meeting, or written communication from the Sierra Leone Police, cannot reasonably be considered a formal invitation on such a critical national matter.
The organisation further expressed concern over the manner in which information relating to its proposed civic action has been communicated to the public, saying it could create the impression that CAN and the Police had a formal engagement which resulted in the position communicated by the Police.
CAN stressed that no such engagement took place.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful, lawful and responsible civic engagement, noting that its intention has always been to exercise the rights afforded to citizens and civil society organisations under the laws of Sierra Leone, including the right to peacefully assemble, express concerns and advocate on matters of public interest.
CAN said that if the Police have concerns regarding the proposed protest and procession, those concerns should be addressed transparently and directly with the organisers rather than through public statements that could create an inaccurate impression of prior consultation or engagement.
The organisation has therefore called on the Sierra Leone Police to publicly clarify the circumstances surrounding its statement and correct any information that inaccurately suggests that CAN was formally invited to, or engaged in, a meeting concerning the proposed protest and procession.
CAN also urged the Police to exercise restraint and professionalism in its public communications and ensure that information provided to the public is accurate, balanced and capable of independent verification.
For the avoidance of doubt, CAN said it has not withdrawn its position or its commitment to peaceful civic engagement.
The organisation said it remains guided by the principles of transparency, accountability, constitutionalism and respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens.
CAN has also called on all stakeholders, including the Police, to act responsibly and in the interest of maintaining peace while respecting the legitimate rights of citizens.
