Dr. Samura Kamara, a prominent Sierra Leonean statesman, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing mass deportation of Sierra Leonean citizens from neighboring Guinea-Conakry.

In a public statement, he urged the governments of both nations to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the issue peacefully and protect the strong ties that have historically united the two countries.

“Our shared history of cooperation and mutual respect must continue,” Dr. Kamara emphasized, appealing to Guinean authorities to adhere to internationally accepted norms and standards in addressing the situation.

He highlighted the long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence and the free movement of people across borders between Sierra Leone and Guinea, which are both members of the Mano River Union (MRU) and ECOWAS.

He cautioned that the deportations are a setback to these ideals, calling for a reaffirmation of commitments to regional integration, the welfare of citizens, and the implementation of agreed-upon protocols for cross-border movement.

“While respecting Guinea’s sovereignty, I strongly appeal to the Guinean authorities to demonstrate compassion,” he said, urging due process and adherence to justice and human rights principles for those facing deportation.

Dr. Kamara also stressed the importance of empathy and collaboration between the two governments in addressing the crisis, advocating for sustainable solutions that uphold human dignity.

“Our shared humanity and regional solidarity demand that the two governments work together to address this crisis compassionately,” he concluded, reinforcing the need for a united approach to support the affected families.

The ongoing deportations have raised concerns about the impact on Sierra Leonean citizens and the broader implications for regional stability and cooperation. Dr. Kamara’s call for action is seen as a significant step toward finding a peaceful and lasting resolution to the issue