Ady Macauley Responds to Cancellation of Public Lecture at Njala University

Renowned APC politician and former anti-corruption commissioner, Ady Macauley, has expressed his disappointment and frustration following the cancellation of his highly anticipated public lecture at Njala University.

The lecture, titled “Fighting Corruption: The Experience and Perspective of Ady Macauley”, was scheduled for November 25, 2024, at the university’s Bo campus, organized by the Njala University Student Union.

In a statement released after the cancellation, Macauley voiced concerns over what he believes to be politically motivated interference. Although the university administration cited procedural issues as the reason for the cancellation, Macauley claims that the Student Union had followed all proper procedures and provided the necessary notifications regarding the event.

He suggested that the cancellation was more likely a response to political pressures, further stifling open discourse in the country.

“This is not just about one event – it reflects a broader trend where dissent and diverse perspectives are being suppressed nationwide,” Macauley said. “Sierra Leone deserves better. This is not democracy.”

Macauley criticized the decision, emphasizing that academic institutions should be spaces for free expression and intellectual debate, not platforms for political control.

“Universities must remain neutral and serve as safe havens for open discussion on critical issues such as corruption, which continues to plague our country. It is unfortunate that the university authorities have allowed politics to interfere in the students’ right to learn and discuss freely,” he stated.

He further applauded the Njala University Student Union for its commitment to free speech and its efforts to facilitate a platform for discussing corruption, a pressing issue in Sierra Leone.

“I commend the students for their bravery in standing up for open debate, and I will continue to seek ways to engage with them and the public on these critical issues,” Macauley added.

Macauley made it clear that he would persist in finding ways to share his views on governance, corruption, and human rights, despite the cancellation of the event.