A joint statement released by prominent Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has expressed deep sorrow and condemnation following the disturbing attack that unfolded in Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown, on Sunday, November 26, 2023.

The CSOs jointly condemned the violent breach of security at the Wilberforce Military Barack armory and the subsequent infiltration of the maximum security correctional centre, leading to the escape of numerous prisoners. The loss of lives among the defenders of the state during this distressing incident was mourned by the CSOs.

In their poignant release, the CSOs lamented the recurrence of violent events over the past four years, citing the attempted prison break on April 30, 2020, accompanied by riots in various locations, a violent protest on August 10, 2022, and the latest tragic incident on November 26, 2023. These repeated acts of violence have raised concerns about the adoption of violence and intolerance as means to unknown ends.

Despite uncertainty about the motives behind these distressing events, the CSOs unequivocally denounced all forms of violence, particularly emphasizing the senselessness and detrimental impact of the recent attacks on the country’s peace and developmental efforts.

Labeling these acts as assaults on civic space and a setback to the hard-won progress since the end of the civil war in 2002, the CSOs asserted their unwavering commitment to upholding democracy, urging all Sierra Leoneans to persist in pursuing peaceful avenues for addressing grievances.

Additionally, the CSOs called upon the government to swiftly investigate these acts of violence, utilizing available resources to ensure a comprehensive resolution to the continuous threats to the nation’s peace. Simultaneously, they urged citizens to support efforts aimed at curbing further attempts to disrupt the country’s stability.

The CSOs signing the joint statement include the Human Rights Defenders Network, Institute for Governance Reform, Center for Accountability and The Rule of Law, 50/50 Group, Women’s Forum, Amnesty International, Fambul Tok International, Center for Coordination of Youth Activities, and Society for Democratic Initiatives.