……..Military, Police Officers Accused of Non-Compliance
By Mohamed Kamara
Freetown – The Minister of Internal Affairs has revealed that upon assuming office, he inherited a ministry lacking a clear strategy. His primary focus, he stated, is to implement effective policies aimed at improving internal security, including decongesting the Commercial Business District (CBD) and redirecting motorcycle (Okada) riders away from central areas of the capital. Unlike previous directives, he assured that this initiative would be a radical and decisive approach to addressing public concerns.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s routine press briefing on Tuesday, February 24, 2025, at the Mini Miatta Conference Hall, the Minister acknowledged that the strategy remains under review to incorporate citizens’ feedback. However, he also highlighted major challenges, including allegations of favoritism within the police force and the broader societal impact of the Okada ban.
During the press conference, journalists questioned the enforcement of the directive, pointing out that military and police officers—when off duty—allegedly commercialize their private vehicles within the restricted CBD zones without repercussions. Ibrahim Sandy, President of the Okada Riders Union, who was present at the event, was urged to confirm claims that many motorcycles registered at the City Council belong to police officers who continue operating within the CBD uninterrupted.
Concerns were also raised about the socio-economic impact of the ban, particularly on youth unemployment. Okada riding has become a crucial source of livelihood for thousands of young people in Sierra Leone, supporting over 8,000 to 10,000 dependents through accommodation, food, education, healthcare, and even small businesses. Some journalists questioned whether the government had fully considered the potential rise in crime rates if these riders were pushed out of work.
In response, the Minister assured that these pressing concerns would be addressed in the upcoming strategy review sessions, signaling potential revisions to the policy.
As debates intensify, the success of the decongestion effort remains uncertain, especially amid growing accusations of selective enforcement and its potential economic repercussions.
