RC underscores conflict prevention, human rights and sustaining peace as foundation for sustainable development

UN Resident Coordinator (RC) Babatunde Ahonsi, in his first official engagement with recently appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu, underscored that conflict prevention, human rights and sustaining peace are the foundation for achieving sustainable development. He also emphasized that effective policing is not only compatible with human rights laws and standards but is enhanced through compliance with human rights principles.

The RC met with the IGP on Tuesday at the Police Headquarters in Freetown, where he congratulated him on his appointment to the position, especially at such a critical time. He stressed the importance of the good relationship between the United Nations and the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), especially as the country seeks to build back better following the COVID-19 pandemic and the global economic crisis.

On behalf of the UN Country Team (UNCT), the RC also expressed his condolences for the loss of lives of civilians and police officers during the 10 August incident. Additionally, Mr Ahonsi said, “there are opportunities for learning and improvement, and also increased collaboration,” and concluded that by restating the critical role of the Police, the IGP could count on the UN as a partner.

Responding specifically on the 10 August incident, IGP Sellu reported that all children in detention have been released and reunited with their families. Police stations attacked were being rehabilitated by the government. He assured the RC that the human rights of all detainees in the custody of the Police had been respected but indicated that organizers did not follow the process to hold a public demonstration or protest.

Furthermore, the Police Chief appealed to the RC and the wider UNCT for training, logistical and communication support. He acknowledged that tensions are currently high, and the priority is election-specific training, which should bring all security sector actors on board.

The meeting also highlighted the long-standing partnership between the UNCT and the Family Support Unit (FSU) of the  SLP and underlined the critical need to strengthen its gender violence prevention and mitigation work prior to, during and after the 2023 multi-tier elections