The United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan David Hunt, has stated that Sierra Leone does not believe in collective punishment. He emphasized that while a judicial investigation is underway to determine responsibility for the November 26th incident, it is crucial for all parties involved to continue the dialogue and implementation of the October agreement.
It could be recalled that the November 26 attacks in parts of the capital Freetown was later declared by the Government as a failed coup attempt. The main opposition All Peoples Congress party had earlier rejected the June 2023 Presidential election results. The APC claimed the elections were rigged, as a result, the party refused to participate in the government.
During the interview on Africa Young Voices television ‘Wake Up Salone’ program, Ambassador Hunt stated, “There is a judicial process that is going on to find out who were responsible for November 26th. Whoever was involved in that needs to be held accountable under Sierra Leone law.” He stressed that those responsible for breaking the law, as well as anyone who supported or financed them, should be held accountable individually.
Ambassador Hunt cautions against conflating the investigation with the dialogue and agreement, as they are separate matters. He expressed his belief that the November 26th incident does not reflect the stance of the opposition in Sierra Leone, stating, “I don’t believe that any legitimate political actor in Sierra Leone would back what happened on November 26.” He further emphasized that those who might have supported the incident did so in their personal capacity and should be held individually accountable. He stressed that this should not be an excuse to abandon the dialogue and agreement, as the majority of both the opposition and government sides are committed to national unity and a democratic political process.
In conclusion, Ambassador Hunt stated, “When we talk about the investigation for November 26th, we’re talking about investigating and holding accountable individuals for their individual actions. Sierra Leone does not believe in collective punishment, nor does the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. So we do not punish a political party or any organization for the individual actions of its members.”
