The ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has claimed that the brutal murder of ASP Matthew Moiwah Gbanya in Makeni on Saturday was premeditated and unjustifiable.

The Party made this claim in a statement issued today, signed by its Secretary General, Umaru Napoleon Koroma.

“The Sierra Leone Peoples Party is appalled at the alleged assassination of ASP Matthew Moiwah Gbanya in Makeni on Saturday, April 8th, 2023. The Party believes such a brutal murder was premeditated and unjustifiable,” SLPP stated.

They further extended profound condolences to the Family of the slain officer, the Inspector General of Police and the entire Sierra Leone Police.

SLPP stated that they strongly condemn this dastardly act, which they believe has the potential not only to undermine the trust between Police Officers and citizens but also create heightened tension in Makeni.

“We support the Sierra Leone Police which “has launched a full-scale investigation into the said incident, with the view to identifying not only the perpetrators but also to determine the motive behind this targeted killing,” the party stated, adding that, “We urge the Sierra Leone Police to ensure that such an investigation is impartial.”

The general public would recall that in recent months hate speeches and incitement to violence against Police Officers have been on the increase. This unsavoury development puts the life of every Police Officer at risk, according to the ruling party.

The SLPP therefore called on all political parties to condemn and disassociate from supporters and well-known social media influencers who propagate hate and incitement against Police Officers.

“Arguably, the brutal killing of ASP Matthew Moiwah Gbanya might have been an offshoot of the sowing of these hateful and incitement seeds,” the party stated.

As the 24 June 2023 elections get closer, the SLPP appealed for calm and restraints to its supporters and Sierra Leoneans generally. They also entreated the people of Sierra Leone to carry out their normal business, noting that the country is very peaceful.

“As we await the outcome of the full-scale investigation, the SLPP will liaise with the leadership of the Sierra Leone Police and the Family of the deceased for a befitting funeral of the late ASP Matthew Moiwah Gbanya, a dedicated and distinguished Police Officer who gave his life in service to our great Nation,” the ruling party concluded.