Victims have been severely injured, with buildings, including the offices of the main opposition All People’s Congress at Taiama Junction touched in the wave of attacks.
Furthermore, hundreds of opposition supporters have fled from Kono district and are currently seeking refuge in Masingbi, Tonkolili District, either as a result of alleged intimidation or for fear of reprisals, following acrimonious campaigns.
However, a press release signed by Chairperson, Dr. Usman Jesse Fornah, stated that the Commission had sent out a fact-finding team to Masingbi and Kono to conduct independent investigation into reports of violence.
They called on citizens to conduct themselves responsibly within the rule of law, display political tolerance and also respect the fundamental human rights of one another.
“The Human Rights commission is concerned about the spate of political violence across the country following the announcement of the results of the March 31 run-off election. We unreservedly condemn any act of violence. We called on political parties to denounce violence, promote political tolerance and peaceful co-existence,” the release stated.
The commission also reminded the government of its obligations to maintaining peace and security and called on the police to increase security personnel in affected areas so as to maintain law and order and protect lives and property.
