AUC chairperson expresses 'deep concern' about Sierra Leone's violent protests

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, has expressed deep concern about violent protests in Sierra Leone over rising cost of living and corruption, which have resulted in deaths and destruction of property.

In a statement issued in Addis Ababa on Thursday, he called for an end to the violence and constructive dialogue to ensure peace prevails. 

"The Chairperson condemns the acts of violence, and urges all stakeholders to refrain from further violence and engage in constructive dialogue, within the parameters of the democratic process, to maintain the stability that Sierra Leone has enjoyed since the end of civil war in 2002," Mr. Mahamat said.

He reaffirmed the AU's commitment to work with the Government and people of Sierra Leone in the restoration of normalcy.

Media reports quote the police as at least 20 civilians and six police officers have been killed in anti-government protests which started on Wednesday in the capital, Freetown, and spread to the north.

-0- PANA MA 12Aug2022