On the first anniversary of the burial of protesters and bystanders killed during the violent protests of August 2022, Amnesty International has issued a stern call for justice and reparations in Sierra Leone.

Over 20 protesters and bystanders, as well as six police officers, lost their lives during the protests that erupted on August 10, 2022, driven by mounting frustration over the skyrocketing cost of living.

A Special Investigation Committee appointed by the government delivered its findings in March of the same year. However, the report, while recommending improved training for police officers to prevent excessive force, notably fell short of recommending a thorough investigation into the alleged use of excessive force during the protests. Shockingly, to date, none of the civilian deaths have been subjected to a comprehensive investigation.

Eyewitness testimonies point to the excessive use of force by security forces in quelling the protests.

Samira Daoud, Director of Amnesty International’s West and Central Africa office, expressed deep concern: “More than a year on and the pain of the victims’ families is still as raw as it was in the days following the killings. The Sierra Leonean authorities have failed to live up to their promise to conduct a full, impartial, and transparent investigation and guarantee justice and truth to the families of victims.”

Amnesty International calls on the authorities to fully investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of each person killed, including allegations of excessive force used by security forces. This should include all victims’ families, including the families of police officers who lost their lives.

The protesters and bystanders killed during the August 2022 protests were collectively buried on October 17, 2022, in a shared grave. Regrettably, the families were not afforded the opportunity to identify their loved ones or bid them farewell according to their wishes and rituals.

Relatives of the victims share the profound impact this has had on their lives. One family member expressed, “I usually don’t talk about this, even if I go outside and they talk about this, I would move away from that place because of the stigma.” These painful memories continue to affect the well-being of those who lost loved ones.

Amnesty International also highlighted that none of the individuals they spoke with were consulted during the Special Committee’s investigation. However, the families remain hopeful that justice will eventually be served.

After the protests, 515 people were arrested and prosecuted for a range of offenses. Some faced severe challenges, including limited access to legal counsel. Amnesty International’s investigation revealed that some were convicted based solely on the testimony of arresting officers without additional corroborating evidence.

“The authorities should protect the right to peaceful assembly and ensure that protest policing respects both national and international human rights standards,” emphasized Samira Daoud.

The events of August 2022 continue to cast a shadow over Sierra Leone, with calls for accountability and justice echoing loudly as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the violent protests.