The Government of Sierra Leone has condemned the recent surge in domestic violence against women and girls and called for swift and thorough investigations into all reported cases of domestic violence

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, has expressed deep concern and outrage over the alarming rise in domestic violence cases, particularly against women and girls, in recent months.

In a press release issued on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, the government unequivocally condemned all forms of domestic violence, calling for collective action to eradicate this growing menace from society.

The government emphasized that Sierra Leone is a nation founded on justice and the rule of law, reminding citizens that taking the law into their own hands undermines the justice system.

The Ministry reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of women and girls, stressing that violence against them has no place in the country.

The recent surge in domestic violence cases, some leading to death or permanent disability, has shaken the nation, threatening the fabric of communities and undermining family stability. The government is particularly concerned about these developments and has pledged to take decisive action to address the issue.

Sierra Leone, a signatory to numerous international and regional frameworks dedicated to protecting women’s rights, has enacted robust laws and policies to ensure gender equality.

The government reiterated its commitment to these principles, citing the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Maputo Protocol on Women’s Rights as key instruments guiding its efforts.

The Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs called for swift and thorough investigations into all reported cases of domestic violence, including the recent alleged attack on Ms. Isatu S. Conteh in Sella Limba Chiefdom, Karene District.

The Ministry stressed that justice must be served in this and all other cases, urging the Sierra Leone Police to rigorously apply the provisions of the Domestic Violence Act 2007.

The Ministry is actively collaborating with stakeholders, including the Sierra Leone Police, to ensure that investigations are conducted expeditiously and that the rule of law is upheld. It also reported that Ms. Isatu S. Conteh is currently receiving medical treatment and responding well.

Furthermore, the Ministry appealed to the public to refrain from sharing distressing images or videos of victims on social media, emphasizing that such actions violate the dignity and privacy of the victims and contribute to further stigmatization.

The Government of Sierra Leone calls on all citizens to join in creating a safer and more just society for everyone, reiterating its commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls across the nation.