Sierra Leone Imposes Nationwide Curfew Amid Rumours Of Coup Attempt

The government of Sierra Leone has declared a nationwide curfew following a recent attack on a military barracks in the capital, Freetown this morning. This incident comes amidst ongoing unrest in the country, after the post-election period.

The government announced that they successfully repelled an attack at the Wilberforce barracks and assured citizens of control over the situation. Information Minister Chernor Bah urged people to remain indoors while security forces continue efforts to apprehend the suspects involved in the attack.

Reports from witnesses described heavy gunfire and explosions in Freetown early on Sunday, with social media videos showing smoke rising from the streets. Witnesses mentioned exchanges of fire near the navy base in Murray Town and another military site, indicating a significant security challenge.

President Julius Maada Bio confirmed the breach and attributed the attack to a group of “renegades,” reassuring the public that calm had been restored. He emphasised the importance of unity in safeguarding Sierra Leone’s democracy against disruptive forces.

Expressing concern, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) condemned the attempt to disrupt constitutional order in Sierra Leone. The country has been grappling with political violence since Bio’s re-election in June, which was marred by allegations of transparency issues during the ballot count.

The aftermath of Sierra Leone’s civil war, which ended more than two decades ago, has seen ongoing socio-economic challenges. President Bio’s victory has been met with criticism due to the country’s economic struggles, high poverty rates affecting nearly 60% of the population, and soaring youth unemployment, among the highest in West Africa.

This unrest in Sierra Leone follows a troubling trend in the region, marked by several military coups that have threatened democratic stability. The country is navigating a fragile period, reflecting broader challenges faced by the West and Central African region, with numerous coups witnessed in recent years in nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea.