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In an urgent plea to Parliament, the human rights organization LEGAL LINK has called for a halt to the passage of the controversial Counter-Terrorism Bill, which is slated for its third reading and potential enactment today, January 28, 2025.
LEGAL LINK, a leading rights advocacy group in Sierra Leone, has raised alarms over certain provisions within the bill, warning of severe implications for human rights, democracy, and civil liberties.
While the organization acknowledges the importance of combating terrorism and safeguarding public security, it stresses that these objectives must not come at the expense of fundamental freedoms and constitutional protections.
According to LEGAL LINK, the bill, in its current form, could undermine multiparty democracy, erode public trust in government institutions, and have a “chilling effect” on civil liberties.
The organization has highlighted the absence of public participation and consultation in the legislative process as a major concern, urging Parliament to provide an opportunity for civil society organizations, stakeholders, and the public to scrutinize and propose amendments to the bill.
“Transparency and public participation are cornerstones of a thriving democracy,” the letter to the Honourable Speaker and Members of Parliament reads. LEGAL LINK emphasized the need for an inclusive legislative process to ensure the bill achieves an appropriate balance between national security and the protection of fundamental human rights as guaranteed by Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution.
The organization hopes Parliament will recognize the gravity of the situation and take swift action to foster open dialogue and collaboration on this critical issue.
The Counter-Terrorism Bill has drawn considerable attention in recent weeks, with activists and legal experts urging caution over its potential implications. As the clock ticks down to its anticipated passage, all eyes remain on Parliament to see whether lawmakers will heed the calls for a delay and deeper consultation.
