By Mustapha Brima, Freetown.
A group of Kailahun citizens have expressed serious concern on the
spate of violence in the period leading to the August 11, general and
presidential elections in their district to the President Alhaji Dr. Ahmad Tejan
Kabbah at the Lodge,in Freetown, recently.
Among many concerns expressed by the group were a vivid account of
how Kailahun district has suffered from political violence since 1973; the 15th
July PMDC attack on a house occupied by the SLPP and the physical assault on a
prominent Kailahun district descendant-Lt. Col. Rtd. Sahr Tom Nyuma at the
Country Side Guest House in Bo by Ernest Bai Koroma’s security guards.
The group further stated that they were appalled by the trend of
violence in the district and are consequently urging the government and the
international community to take immediate steps that will forestall any further
acts of violence on the people of Kailahun District.
While thanking the President, his administration and the law
enforcement agencies for their dedicated service in investigating the attack on
Lt Col. Rtd. Sahr Tom Nyuma, the group affirmed their solidarity in support of
the course of justice for any politically victimized Kailahun district
descendant, regardless of political affiliation.
Responding, the President Alhaji Dr Ahmad Tejan Kabbah expressed
appreciation for the concern expressed by the Kailahun descendants. He said on
his way to Yenga he visited the chief’s compound and saw for himself the
destruction to property.
The President disclosed that he gave a clear warning that anybody
who tries to destabilize the country will face the law. He referred to the group
as wise men because ‘wise men come from the east’ and therefore was not
surprised by the peaceful manner in which the Kailahun people have approached
the problem.
The President referred to the issue as bordering on state security
and therefore should be dealt with discreetly. He spoke about a meeting with the
Inspector General of Police and assured all that everything will be done to put
things right. He said some people want to ferment trouble so that elections will
be postponed, ‘a situation that is not good for the country’.
The President regarded the elections as vital to the country’s
development as partners will want to operate in a peaceful
atmosphere.