The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) lower-level election in Constituency 018, Gorama Mende Chiefdom, Kenema District, was rocked by violence.
The normally peaceful community witnessed chaotic scenes as homes were attacked, people were beaten, and structures were destroyed.
Eyewitnesses reported that the violence erupted during what was meant to be a democratic exercise. “We were just trying to exercise our right to vote, but they came and destroyed everything. We’re left with nothing,” a tearful resident said.
The unrest has left a negative mark on the community. Some reports have indicated that children have been traumatised, women have lost their spouses, and many residents are struggling to cope with the aftermath.
Local observers and community members are calling on party leaders to take immediate action. They urge officials to condemn the violence, launch investigations into the incidents, and provide emergency assistance and counseling services to those affected.
Authorities have yet to comment on the situation, as residents continue to demand justice and a swift return to peace in Constituency 018.
Last week, a similar violence spurred in another lower-level election in Tonkolili District. The violence there left the houses of a Regent chief burnt to Ashes. Reports reaching our desk accused the current Chairman of the SLPP in Tonkolili, Ahmed Saybom Kanu of orchestrating the unrest.
Back to the 60s when politics was a do or die process
This is a terrible act and action needs to be taken against the perpetrators may God healed all those that are involved in Jesus name amen.