Deadly Clashes Erupt in Eastern Sierra Leone Between Secret Society & muslim community
_By MB Jalloh_
A longstanding dispute between the Muslim majority and the “Wonde” Secret Society in Gorama Mende Chiefdom, Eastern Sierra Leone, has intensified into a major crisis. Gorama Mende Chiefdom in Eastern Sierra Leone has become the epicenter of violent clashes between the Muslim community and members of the “Wonde” Secret Society, following escalating tensions over the imposition of traditional rituals.
Reports from the Chiefdom indicate that efforts by the Secret Society to enforce its practices on the predominantly Muslim population, to which the Paramount, Chief Haja Mariama Gassama Kanja IV, belongs to have been met with strong resistance, culminating in violent confrontations.
The situation worsened with the recent suspension of Paramount Chief Haja Mariama Gassama Kanja IV and the appointment of a caretaker chief, Wahid Kallon, by the Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Tamba Lamina. That decision intensified unrest in the region, with supporters of the suspended Paramount Chief denouncing the move as “unjustified and politically motivated.”
A senior resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that members of the Secret Society have attacked the Muslim community, including Imams, leaving several individuals stabbed. In response to the violence, many residents have fled the Chiefdom, fearing for their safety. Some of the injured victims are currently receiving medical treatment at Government hospitals in Kono and Magburaka.
Multiple reports suggest that several Imams, Chiefs and Muezzins (prayer callers) have been arrested and transported to Freetown, where they are allegedly being held at the Pademba Road Correctional Centre. Disturbingly, recent accounts from the capital allegedly claim that the detainees are being subjected to mistreatment and torture.
A senior member of the Muslim community in Gorama Mende described the detentions as “unjust,” asserting that the Imams were arrested solely because of their religious leadership roles.
Despite a high-profile visit by Government officials, the situation in the Chiefdom remains tense. The delegation, which included the Minister of Local Government, Minister of Internal Affairs, Inspector General of Police, Chief of Defense Staff, National Security Coordinator and Senior District Officer, was expected to de-escalate tensions. However, their visit appears to have had little impact, as the underlying issues remain unresolved.
Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu confirmed that the violence has resulted in widespread destruction, including the burning of homes, motorbikes and other valuable property. In a telephone interview, he stated that an investigation is ongoing and assured that a detailed briefing will be provided upon its completion.
Dr. Habib Sheriff, President of the United Council of Imams, acknowledged the severity of the situation and confirmed that the matter has been looked at seriously at their regional office in Kenema. A report was also to be compiled for submission to the Council’s head office in Freetown for further action.
Attempts to obtain comments from the Minister of Local Government and other relevant stakeholders have so far been unsuccessful.
Meanwhile, citizens of Gorama Mende, both at home and abroad, are urging the Government of President Julius Maada Bio to intervene decisively to protect the rights of the Muslim community and prevent further bloodshed. They are also demanding the immediate reinstatement of Paramount Chief Haja Mariama Gassama Kanja IV and the establishment of effective conflict resolution mechanisms to restore peace and stability in the region.
Gorama Mende Chiefdom, located in Kenema District, Eastern Province, has been a longstanding flashpoint of tensions between the Muslim majority and the Wonde Secret Society, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable peace-building efforts.
Efforts made by this news medium to get the side of the Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Tamba Lamina, proved futile. However, due consideration, diligence and relevance will be given to any plausible response if such is presented.
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