The Sierra Leone Police (SLP) has officially rejected a request for police presence at a planned gathering on December 10, 2024, citing potential risks to national stability and public order. The gathering, proposed by Mr. Thomas Babadi and Mr. Madi Williams of 37 Mends Street, Freetown, aimed to pressure the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) to release detailed polling station results from the June 24, 2023, elections.
In a public notice dated December 5, 2024, the SLP disclosed that, following a meeting with the organizers, it was determined that the planned actions, including occupying ECSL offices, could disrupt public order. The police emphasized that such actions are unlawful and should be addressed through appropriate legal channels, such as the courts.
The SLP further highlighted that the organizers failed to meet the legal requirements under the Public Order Act for notifying the police about public gatherings. Requests for public events, according to the Act, must be submitted to the Inspector General of Police for review, taking security concerns into account.
“For these reasons, the SLP has not approved the proposed gathering. Mr. Babadi and Mr. Williams are assisting with further investigations,” the statement read.
The police have urged the public to refrain from participating in unauthorized activities and to continue with their daily routines as usual. The SLP reiterated its commitment to ensuring peace and stability across the country, stating that any threats to national security would not be tolerated.
This decision has sparked discussions among citizens, with some expressing concerns over electoral transparency, while others support the police’s stance on maintaining order. The ECSL has yet to comment on the situation or the demands for detailed polling station results.
The SLP continues to advise the public to resolve electoral concerns through lawful means, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established legal frameworks to address grievances.
For inquiries, the police provided contact details for their Media and Public Relations Department at +23275-771313.
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