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The Sierra Leone Police Eastern Regional Command has declined a request by the youth group “Voice of the Youth” to stage a protest in Kenema against rapper LAJ, following a reported altercation involving the artist and Mayor Baio.
The group had sought police clearance and security coverage for the planned demonstration, which stems from what it described as abuse by the rapper during a tense interaction with the mayor.
On *25 March 2026*, the Eastern Regional Police Command formally presented its response to representatives of the group at the Office of the Regional Commander in Kenema.
During the meeting, the Regional Police Commander East, Francis Brima Meinday, engaged members of the organization in what was described as a calm and constructive dialogue.
Addressing the group, AIG Meinday clarified that the authority to approve public protests does not lie within the regional command but rests with the Inspector General of Police. He advised the group to redirect its request to the appropriate office for consideration.
He further cautioned members of the “Voice of the Youth” to avoid any unauthorized actions that could disrupt public order, emphasizing the need to adhere strictly to established legal procedures.
Supporting this position, the Local Unit Commander, Emmanuel Kpulun, urged the group to remain law-abiding and to seek redress through proper institutional channels.
The Regional Crime Officer East, Mohamed Hindolo Feika, also reinforced the call for compliance, stressing that due process must be followed at all times to maintain peace and security.
In his response, the Chairman of the Voice of the Youth in Kenema, Suliaman Kamara, expressed appreciation for what he described as the humility of the police leadership. He assured authorities that members of the group would comply with the law and pursue the matter through appropriate channels in line with national standards.
The engagement ended on a note of mutual understanding, with police authorities reiterating their commitment to upholding the law while encouraging citizens to express grievances through lawful means.
