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In a significant effort to address ongoing concerns between the Sierra Leone Commercial Motor Bike Riders Union (BRU) and law enforcement agencies, a national dialogue culminated in the signing of a communique on October 7, 2024.
This pivotal event took place at the Atlantic Hotel, bringing together representatives from the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), and the bike riders’ union.
The joint signing ceremony was attended by Deputy Inspector General of Police, Mr. Aiah Edward Samadia, who represented the Inspector General of Police. He acknowledged the presence of several key figures, including the Honorable Minister of Youth Affairs, Mr. Mohamed Osman Bangura, UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Fredrick Ampiah, and Executive Director of SLRSA, Rev. Smart K. Senesie, among other distinguished guests.
DIG Samadia emphasized the importance of a cooperative approach between law enforcement officials and the bike riders Union. He stated, “An effective and efficient law enforcement strategy has been a consistent priority for the SLP when addressing issues concerning bike riders.”
He highlighted the significance of the dialogue that included various stakeholders such as the Ministry of Youth Affairs and the Inter-religious Council, noting that it was critical to discuss and address peace-sustaining challenges faced by all parties involved.
The Deputy Inspector General stressed the SLP’s commitment to community-oriented policing, saying, “Today’s event underscores the level of open-mindedness that the SLP maintains through an inclusive approach. We are firm on law enforcement, yet adaptable where community engagement is essential, especially when it aids in upholding the law and promoting sustainable peace and development.”
DIG Samadia revealed that the outcomes of the recent National Dialogue held at the Bintumani Hotel on June 14-15 are a priority for the SLP, particularly concerning law enforcement practices related to bike riders. He acknowledged challenges present in the Central Business District (CBD) and reiterated that open dialogue is paving the way for mutual understanding and amicable resolutions to these issues.
In closing, he urged the Executive body of the BRU to foster awareness of the communique’s provisions, emphasizing that peace is a collective effort that requires collaboration among all stakeholders. He extended his gratitude to the UNDP and the Peacebuilding Fund for their support in making this dialogue possible and expressed anticipation for further cooperative initiatives.
Prominent voices at the event also included contributions from the National Bike Riders Public Relations Officer, and Minister of Youth Affairs Mr. Mohamed Osman Bangura, who underscored the important role of commercial motor bike riders. They collectively urged adherence to the communique’s terms as a means to ensure successful implementation of the agreement.
The signing of the national agreement marks a crucial step towards improving relations and fostering a safer environment for both the bike riders Union and law enforcement agencies in Sierra Leone.
