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In light of recent drug-related allegations involving Sierra Leone diplomats stationed in Guinea, Augustine Sorie Sengbe-Marrah, interim president of the Lawyer’s Society, has shared critical legal perspectives on the situation, underscoring the urgent need for transparency and accountability within public service.
Sengbe-Marrah highlighted the unprecedented decision by security personnel in Guinea to search diplomatic vehicles, indicating a growing suspicion of illicit activities among Sierra Leonean diplomats. This development poses significant risks, as it threatens to strip diplomats and their staff of the privileges they previously enjoyed, leading to increased scrutiny of their movements.
“I do not believe they will expel the Sierra Leone Embassy from Guinea, but this situation will create constraints. The freedom they experienced will undoubtedly be compromised,” he stated.
The Lawyer’s Society president expressed the importance of maintaining diplomatic status for the Sierra Leonean diplomats. Withdrawal of this status could lead to closure of the embassy, adversely impacting the Mano River Union and various entities which rely on peaceful relations.
He emphasized that Guinea is not only a close neighbor but also a vital partner in business with Sierra Leone. Any diplomatic fallout could jeopardize the robust trading relationship enjoyed by nationals from both countries.
“A diplomatic clash would harm the mutual business interests that Sierra Leone and Guinea share,” he warned.
Concluding his remarks, Sengbe-Marrah cautioned that heightened tensions might lead Guinea to close its borders due to trafficking concerns. “Even a day, a week, or a month of border closure would have serious economic repercussions for ordinary citizens who depend on trading with Guinea,” he concluded.
