Prominent Sierra Leonean opposition politician, Dr. Sylvia Blyden, met with the United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan Hunt, and Deputy Ambassador Jared Yancey, for a luncheon and discussion on democracy and American values.
During the meeting, Ambassador Hunt and Deputy Ambassador Yancey expressed their keen interest in understanding the challenges and opportunities facing Sierra Leone’s democratic process.
Dr. Blyden, a vocal critic of the government, shared her experiences and concerns regarding the safety and security of opposition politicians in the country.
While acknowledging that she has received threats from individuals who disagree with her political views, Dr. Blyden assured the U.S. diplomats that she feels generally safe in Sierra Leone. She emphasized the importance of continued efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and protect the rights of all citizens.
“I just finished having a very sumptuous Lunch and engagement dialogue with Ambassador Bryan Hunt. We were joined by the new United States Deputy Ambassador Jared Yancey. It was just the three of us and we had a delightful chat on Democracy & American Values. Part of our chat included whether, a critical opposition woman like myself, feels SAFE in Sierra Leone whilst I exercise my democratic rights.🇸🇱
“I told the two topmost USA Diplomats in Sierra Leone that despite few life threatening remarks from undemocratic belligerents, my personal safety in our beautiful Sierra Leone is 💯 FULLY assured – at least for now by the grace of God.”