In a recent statement to the press, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Leader of the Opposition in Sierra Leone’s Parliament, has sharply criticized the current government led by President Julius Maada Bio, accusing it of undemocratic practices and intolerance of criticism.

Kargbo’s remarks came in the wake of an incident at a Town Hall meeting organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) at the Bintumani Conference Centre. He reported that during the meeting, a woman was allegedly attacked while asking a question, an act he described as indicative of the government’s refusal to accept public scrutiny.

The Opposition Leader emphasized that a true democracy must allow and encourage open criticism, asserting that the current administration’s response to dissent undermines democratic principles. He further criticized the government’s approach to the 2023 general elections, suggesting that it reflects a broader pattern of interference. Kargbo also pointed to issues within the Sierra Leone Bar Association’s elections as evidence of ongoing problems with the electoral process.

In response, Information Minister Chernor Bah condemned the attack on the woman but noted that she had not adhered to the rules of the meeting. He affirmed the need for adherence to regulations while condemning the violence.

Hon. Sahr Mathew Nyuma, Leader of Government Business, addressed Kargbo’s comments by defending the government’s commitment to democratic processes. He urged journalists to focus on individuals inciting unrest from abroad and highlighted the role of the media in promoting national cohesion.Nyuma also mentioned that the Tripartite Committee’s review of the electoral law, passed in 2022, aims to enhance the electoral framework