Lawyer JFK Replies WARDC Chairman Over Criticism of US Ambassador
Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, the former Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Sierra Leone, has publicly responded to comments made by Kashor J. Holland Cole, the Chairman of the Western Area Rural District Council (WARDC). Cole had previously criticized the US Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan Hunt, accusing him of undermining democracy in the country.
Cole’s criticism stemmed from statements made by Ambassador Hunt on radio station 98.1, which Cole claimed rendered the efforts of the tripartite committee ineffective. He questioned whether the United States would accept election results that were not correctly read and published, suggesting that Hunt’s comments were detrimental to the democratic process in Sierra Leone.
In his response, Kamara defended Ambassador Hunt, arguing that the Ambassador’s comments were aligned with the legal standards of the country. Kamara pointed out that Hunt’s remarks reflected the laws of Sierra Leone and were factually accurate. He questioned the rationale behind Cole’s strong denunciation of the US Ambassador.
Kamara emphasized that instead of attacking the US Ambassador, scrutiny should be directed towards members of the All People's Congress (APC) who have opted to pursue matters through the judicial process. He argued that the United States should be viewed as a constructive partner in electoral reform, not an adversary, highlighting the substantial investments the US has made in the country which underscore their commitment to Sierra Leone’s democratic and developmental progress.
Kamara’s remarks suggest a call for greater introspection within Sierra Leone’s political landscape and a recognition of the positive role international partners can play in supporting democratic governance. He advocates for a more collaborative approach, appreciating the investments and contributions of allies like the United States in strengthening Sierra Leone’s electoral processes and democratic institutions.