AYV News, December 18, 2024
The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ) has issued a strong condemnation of Guinea’s mass expulsion of Sierra Leonean nationals and Sierra Leone’s subsequent retaliatory actions against the Fullah ethnic community.
In a statement released today, ILRAJ described the expulsions and retaliations as violations of fundamental human rights under international and regional laws, as well as a betrayal of Sierra Leone’s constitutional principles.
ILRAJ emphasized that both actions constitute a breach of the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Residence, and Establishment, which guarantees citizens of member states the right to move, reside, and work freely across borders. The institute also highlighted violations of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which explicitly prohibit mass expulsions and collective punishment.
The retaliatory actions by Sierra Leone’s security forces, particularly targeting the Fullah community, were described as deeply troubling. ILRAJ reported incidents of wrongful arrests, detentions, and ethnic profiling, with Fullahs being labeled as “undocumented foreigners.” Such actions, according to the organization, amount to ethnic discrimination and undermine the country’s constitutional protections against arbitrary arrests and unfair treatment.
Historical Context and Regional Impact
ILRAJ warned that these actions evoke painful historical parallels to ethnic tensions in Sierra Leone during the 1970s, which fractured national unity. It also noted that the expulsions and retaliatory actions are contrary to the founding principles of the Mano River Union (MRU), established to foster regional cooperation and economic progress among Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia.
“The recent developments undermine the spirit of peace, inclusivity, and development in the subregion,” the statement read.
Demands and Recommendations
ILRAJ called for immediate action to address the situation, outlining the following demands:
- Immediate cessation of harassment, detention, and deportation based on ethnicity.
- Compliance with regional and international obligations, including ECOWAS and ACHPR frameworks.
- Independent investigations into the expulsions and retaliations, with accountability for those responsible.
- Public reaffirmation of the rights of all Sierra Leonean citizens, including the Fullah community, to live free from discrimination.
- Diplomatic dialogue between Guinea and Sierra Leone to resolve underlying issues and prevent future occurrences.
A Call for Justice and Unity
ILRAJ urged the Sierra Leonean government to lead by example, prioritizing justice, inclusivity, and the rule of law. “The Fullah community is an integral part of Sierra Leone’s social, economic, and cultural fabric and must not be scapegoated,” the organization stated.
The institute concluded with a plea for both nations to uphold their commitments to regional solidarity and the principles of human rights.
About ILRAJ
The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice is a non-partisan organization dedicated to promoting human rights, the rule of law, and access to justice in Sierra Leone. Through policy reform, research, and advocacy, ILRAJ champions accountability and equality for all.
