Sierra Leonean Lawyer Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah Advocates for Reform in Government's Protest Approach

Renowned Sierra Leonean lawyer and social activist, Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah, has brought attention to the government's handling of protests and demonstrations, calling for a comprehensive overhaul in approach. In a thought-provoking analysis, Marrah emphasized the fundamental right of citizens to engage in peaceful protests, urging a shift toward depoliticizing, regulating, and empowering such civic actions.

Sharing his deep commitment to this cause, Marrah disclosed that in 2017, he, alongside senior members of the then government, approached the Supreme Court to seek a declaration that protest is a constitutionally guaranteed human right. This legal effort aimed to challenge the Inspector General's authority under the Public Order Act of 1965 to approve or disapprove protests. However, despite their legal pursuit, the restrictive approach to protests persisted even after a change in political leadership in 2018.

Marrah drew a compelling parallel between the regulation of protests and the criminalization of marijuana use. Arguing that imposing unnecessary restrictions fuels defiance, he suggested that removing such restrictions could diminish the appeal of protests, emphasizing that people are not afraid of activities that are legal and fairly regulated.

Expanding on this perspective, Marrah contended that fear thrives on what is outlawed and unknown. He stressed the importance of providing clear, fair, and democratically reasonable rules and regulations on citizens' right to protest. Marrah proposed the need to decriminalize and depoliticize protests, envisioning a system where citizens can freely exercise their right to hold their government and leaders accountable without unnecessary hindrances.

Marrah's stance represents a call for a more open and participatory approach to governance, advocating for a delicate balance between maintaining public order and respecting citizens' rights. As his words resonate on social media, a robust conversation around the regulation of protests gains momentum, prompting a critical examination of current practices and potential reforms in Sierra Leone's approach to citizen activism.

*Disclaimer: Comments expressed here do not reflect the opinions of Sierraloaded or any employee thereof.*

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