By Ragan M. Conteh

In a precedent set a session of Sierra Leone Parliament, on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Hon. Ibrahim Barrie, the esteemed representative of the Bombali District, delivered a passionate and compelling address that resonated throughout the Chamber.

His urgent plea to House Speaker Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas sought an immediate investigation into the troubling phenomenon of the detention of individuals associated with the Fullah tribe, sparking a robust dialogue concerning human rights, ethnic relations, and the role of law enforcement in the nation.

In his address, Hon. Barrie pointed to section 18 of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone Act No 6, which eloquently enshrines the right to freedom of movement.

This constitutional guarantee, he argued, is not merely legal text; it reflects the cornerstone of liberty that should be afforded to every citizen, regardless of their ethnic origin.

The Fullah tribe, recognized for their vibrant cultural heritage and substantial contributions to Sierra Leone’s agricultural and trade sectors, have recently encountered scrutiny and adversity, of which has ignited an alarm among human rights activists and community leaders in the country.

Reports of arbitrary detentions and allegedly discriminatory practices targeting Fullah individuals have reignited calls for an exhaustive investigations aimed at uncovering and addressing these deepening issues.

In his earnest address, Hon. Barrie passionately underscored the necessity of upholding the rights of every citizen, irrespective of ethnic identity.

He articulated a vision of a nation where each individual is treated with dignity and respect, warning that any hint of discrimination poses a grave threat to the foundational values of the country.

In a demonstration of his commitment to addressing these weighty concerns, House Speaker Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas responded to Hon. Barrie’s impassioned call by inviting key government officials to provide clarity on the matter.

He called for the attendance of the Inspector General of Police, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, thus ensuring that they would gather in the Chamber on December 19, 2024, at 4pm.

This invitation marked a crucial stride toward promoting transparency and accountability, allowing Parliament to better understand the prevailing policies and practices that may underlie the alarming trend against the Fullah tribe.

This timely call for investigation comes amidst Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to foster national unity and social cohesion of its diverse array of ethnic groups.

The Fullah community, along with numerous other groups, forms an integral thread in the rich tapestry of the nation’s social fabric.

It is imperative that every citizen feels secure and valued, as this is essential for nurturing a peaceful, inclusive society.

Hon. Barrie’s powerful submission acts as a crucial reminder of the persistent need to remain vigilant against all forms of ethnic discrimination.

He emphasized the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding among various communities, advocating for proactive measures to prevent misunderstandings that could spiral into conflict.

As Parliament gears up to hear from the invited officials, it is vital that all stakeholders approach the issue, at this juncture, with open minds and a genuine commitment to justice. The forthcoming investigation must not only seek to address the specific allegations of detention but also to delve into the broader systemic issues that may contribute to  prevailing ethnical tensions.

Engagement from the public is equally crucial during this process.

It is essential to encourage civil society organizations, community leaders, and everyday citizens to actively partake in discussions, thus offering insights and suggestions on ways to champion equality and safeguard human rights for all ethnic groups within Sierra Leone.