By Ragan M. Conteh

Across Sierra Leone, more women are reporting intimidation, harassment, and violence — especially those who dare to step into politics. Yet, as these challenges grow, many are asking: where are the women’s organizations that once led the fight for gender equality?

It’s not just the 50/50 Group that has come under scrutiny. Other well-known organizations like the Women’s Forum, once celebrated for their trailblazing advocacy, are now being criticized for their silence and perceived inaction in the face of mounting attacks on women leaders and female political figures across the country.

Founded in 2001, the 50/50 Group has long positioned itself as a key voice for gender parity in governance and society. But critics argue that the organization has become disconnected from the very women it claims to represent. Increasingly, activists and political observers are questioning its relevance and commitment.

According to social commentator and activist Sylvester Thomas, “Women are being harassed, ridiculed, and intimidated in broad daylight. The First Lady was humiliated in Parliament-silence. Natasha Beckley and Hawa Jamiru are facing serious political and public attacks — again, silence. Where is 50/50? Where is their voice?”

Thomas added that this failure to speak out undermines the entire purpose of women-focused civil society organizations. “If they can’t defend women in politics, what exactly are they doing?”

Many women — both inside and outside politics — share this frustration. The arrests and intimidation of prominent female figures such as Dr. Sylvia Blyden, Femi Claudius Cole, and Patricia Laverley, the former Deputy Minister of Finance, are often cited as glaring examples where the 50/50 Group failed to show solidarity or issue meaningful condemnation.

Veteran observers recalled a time when the group was more vocal and action-driven under leaders like Dr Aisha Fofanah who consistently spoke truth to power and held institutions accountable for injustices against women. Today, the organization appears less engaged and increasingly absent from national conversations about women’s rights and political participation.

“This country has become a tough place for women in leadership,” said one women’s rights advocate, who asked not to be named. “The patriarchal forces are loud and aggressive, yet the one organization meant to challenge them has gone mute. We need courage, not complacency.”

Some accuse the 50/50 Group of aligning too closely with elite circles, focusing more on boardroom meetings and donor partnerships than on grassroots activism. Others say that both the 50/50 Group and the Women’s Forum have become more ceremonial — organizing conferences and workshops while avoiding the urgent, often messy realities of political advocacy.

“The average woman in politics today feels abandoned,” said a young political aspirant. “We’re left to fend for ourselves in a male-dominated system that ridicules and punishes us. The organizations that were supposed to protect us have turned their backs.”

This criticism marks a turning point. For the 50/50 Group and others, the coming months may define their credibility and future relevance. If they are to remain trusted voices for women, they must reconnect with their founding purpose — to champion justice, demand accountability, and boldly defend women’s right to lead without fear.

Public calls for reform are growing louder. Sierra Leonean women, activists, and citizens alike are demanding that these organizations once again rise to the moment — not with silence, but with courage and conviction.