On March 11, 2025, Sierra Leone passed controversial counter-terrorism laws, raising fears of repression against dissent. Criticisms focus on the government’s aggressive stance towards opposition voices amid concerns of authoritarianism under President Julius Maada Bio, who has a troubling record of violence against protesters. The legislation could further erode civil liberties, prompting calls for reform over oppression.
On March 11, 2025, Sierra Leone’s government enacted new counter-terrorism laws that have raised significant concerns among citizens at home and abroad. Many Sierra Leoneans risk being classified as terrorists merely for voicing criticism against the administration of President Julius Maada Bio, who, after repealing the death penalty, has resorted to extrajudicial killings allegedly conducted by state-endorsed death squads.
Since ascending to power in 2018, Julius Maada Bio, a former junta soldier, has been accused of ordering the killings of over 200 young protesters. This newly passed legislation allows the government to intensify its aggressive stance towards opposition figures and individuals expressing dissent on social media platforms.
Observers note that the ruling Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) hastily pushed this bill through parliament with minimal public engagement, allegedly aided by the currently subdued opposition, the All People’s Congress (APC). This legislation reflects a troubling trend towards authoritarianism amidst a global shift in governance and an apparent decline in respect for fundamental human rights.
Sierra Leone’s already stringent Cyber Laws are among the most stringent globally, and the introduction of the counter-terrorism law is likely to further threaten the country’s delicate democratic fabric. Many citizens fear that such measures will undermine the civil liberties that were fiercely fought for during the nation’s protracted rebel war.
Rather than adopting more oppressive laws, experts argue that Sierra Leone would benefit from robust institutions governed by dedicated and capable leaders genuinely committed to alleviating poverty and serving the population’s interests.
The enactment of new counter-terrorism laws in Sierra Leone poses a significant threat to civil liberties and democracy, potentially labeling dissenters as terrorists. As President Julius Maada Bio’s administration intensifies its crackdown on opposition voices, it raises alarms about authoritarian governance in the country. Advocates call for the development of strong institutions led by honest leaders, rather than further oppressive legislation, to address poverty and enhance the welfare of the citizens.
Original Source: www.thesierraleonetelegraph.com
