The Office of the National Security, Mr. Abdulai Caulker has announced that the proposed Lantern Parade has been put on hold indefinitely due to security concerns.

He explained that some fugitives from the failed coup attempt of November 26, 2024, remain at large, and the security sector is not willing to take any risks. However, he clarified that the government of Sierra Leone had never officially announced the return of the Lantern Parade. Public expectations for the event arose after a leaked memo indicated that a meeting was scheduled to discuss its potential resumption.

Ambassador Isatu Moses, Chairperson of the Kambia District Youth Council, commended the Ministry of Information and Civic Education for launching the Civic Day Series, an initiative aimed at bringing governance closer to the people.

She expressed gratitude that the first Civic Day was held in Kambia District and urged Minister Bah to include the Free Quality Education (FQE) programme in the constitutional review. She explained that school-going children and teachers in Kambia want the FQE programme to be enshrined in the constitution to ensure its continuity under future governments.

As a strong advocate for youth empowerment, Amb. Moses also called on the government to ensure that development quotas allocated to Kambia District’s youth reach the rightful beneficiaries.

She emphasized the need for transparency and equitable distribution of opportunities to enhance youth participation in national development.