AYV News, April 3, 2025
The Government of Sierra Leone has announced the suspension of the proposed Lantern Parade, initially scheduled for April 26 this year.
The country’s National Security Coordinator in the Office of National Security (ONS), Abdulai Caulker said the proposed event 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.
He clarified that the government had never officially announced the return of the Lantern Parade and that public expectations for the event arose after a leaked memo indicated a meeting was scheduled to discuss its potential resumption.
Speaking on related developments, the ONS boss said Sierra Leone remains peaceful and stable, adding that the country is currently at Level One security status, meaning there are no immediate threats to national stability.
He said security measures have been enhanced across the country, particularly in border areas, to maintain peace and prevent disruptions. He urged citizens to remain calm and go about their daily activities without fear.
Addressing the ongoing border dispute between Sierra Leone and Guinea over Yenga, Mr Caulker assured the public that the issue would be resolved peacefully. He referenced the 1974 Non-Aggression Treaty between the two countries, which stipulates that disputes must be settled through diplomatic means rather than force. As part of these efforts, both nations have established a Joint Technical Commission to resolve the Yenga issue and other border infractions.
Mr. Caulker revealed that a crucial meeting took place in Kailahun from March 24-30, 2025, where representatives from both countries presented historical documents on their respective borders to African Union facilitators for further analysis. He described the meeting as the most productive engagement between Sierra Leone and Guinea on border disputes in recent years. He also announced that the Joint Technical Commission will reconvene in Guinea to continue discussions and present additional documentation to help reaffirm the official border lines.
