FLASHBACK TO 2023
In light of recent events following the announcement of 60% of polling station results, the conduct of certain elements within the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has raised deep concern among citizens, observers, and stakeholders in our democracy. Reports indicate that immediately after the partial announcement of results, military officers proceeded directly to the opposition party office, opened fire, and created an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.
This action is inconsistent with the constitutional mandate of the military, and it violates the principles of neutrality, professionalism, and discipline that define any respected national army. The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces is a national institution established to protect the territorial integrity, lives, and property of all Sierra Leoneans, irrespective of political affiliation.
Let it be clearly stated that no professional soldier should take unlawful instructions from any political authority. The military serves the State and the Constitution, not a political party or an individual. It is vital to recall the instructive exchange between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Nigeria and an intelligence officer who refused to act outside his lawful duty. When the minister sought to issue a political directive, the officer boldly and respectfully reminded him that “the uniform I wear is not for any politician; it represents the sovereignty of the state.”
That statement embodies the spirit of true professionalism. It is a reminder that loyalty to the Constitution supersedes loyalty to any political figure. The military should not allow itself to become a tool for political oppression, nor should it act on instructions that endanger citizens or undermine democratic values.
The 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, as amended, clearly outlines the duties and obligations of the Armed Forces. Section 165(2) of the Constitution provides that, “The Armed Forces of Sierra Leone shall be non-partisan, national in character, patriotic, professional, and shall be subject to the control of the democratically elected civil authority.” Section 165(3) further emphasizes that, “The Armed Forces shall not be employed to further the interest of any political party or to subvert the will of the people.”
These constitutional provisions are not mere ceremonial words; they are the foundation of the republic’s civil–military relationship. When members of the Armed Forces act on political orders to intimidate or attack civilians, they betray their oath of allegiance and risk dragging the entire institution into disrepute.
The Armed Forces must remember that their legitimacy derives not from the favor of any ruling government, but from the trust and confidence of the people. Every bullet fired at unarmed citizens diminishes that trust; every unlawful instruction obeyed weakens the moral authority of the military. A professional officer must have the courage to say “No” when ordered to act against the law or the people. The strength of a soldier lies not in his gun, but in his discipline, restraint, and fidelity to the Constitution. As was seen in Nigeria, where an intelligence officer stood firm against political misuse, true patriotism sometimes means refusing to obey an unjust order.
The recent statement attributed to the new ruling party chairman that the military will block the opposition from regaining power is deeply troubling. Such rhetoric has no place in a democracy. It not only insults the independence of the Armed Forces but also endangers national unity. The RSLAF must publicly distance itself from such declarations and reaffirm its loyalty to the Republic, not to any political party.
The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces has a proud history of defending this nation through wars, peacekeeping missions, and crises. That honor must not be tarnished by partisan misuse. The people look to the military not as instruments of fear but as guardians of peace, order, and constitutional governance.
Henceforth, the RSLAF must ensure that, no officer acts on a politically motivated directive that targets civilians or opposition members, the chain of command upholds the principles of neutrality and professionalism enshrined in the Constitution, and soldiers are reminded through training and command guidance that their loyalty is to the State and the people of Sierra Leone.
Let history record that when political actors sought to divide the nation, the Armed Forces stood tall as defenders of unity, law, and democracy.
“The gun must always serve the law, not the politician.” Let the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces remember this truth and act accordingly.
Hon. Abdul Kargbo
Leader of the opposition
Parliament of Sierra Leone
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