Coup fear: ECOWAS denounces plot, Sierra Leone declares curfew
• Aviation authorities change the schedule of departing airline flights.
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Bio yesterday declared a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the county following fears of a coup in the capital Freetown.
There is an alarming increase in military takeovers across Africa. Since January 2023, there have been four coups on the continent in Gabon, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Minister of Information and Civic Education Kemol Barr said in a statement that some unidentified persons attempted to break into the military armory at Wilberforce Barracks, but were repulsed by security forces.
“A nationwide curfew is in place and the public is encouraged to remain indoors as a joint team of our security forces continues to eradicate the remaining remnants of the fugitive rebels,” he said.
“Peace in our beloved country is irreplaceable, and we will continue to protect the peace and security of Sierra Leone from forces that seek to shatter the stability we cherish.
“We remain steadfast in our resolve to protect Sierra Leone’s democracy.” Meanwhile, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) condemned a conspiracy by some individuals to disrupt the peace of Sierra Leoneans.
The accusation was contained in a statement issued by ECOWAS in Abuja yesterday. There it is written: “This nation has learned with utter disgust of a conspiracy by certain individuals to acquire arms in Sierra Leone and disrupt the peace and constitutional order.
“ECOWAS condemns this action and calls for the arrest and prosecution of all those involved in this illegal act.
“The bloc has always maintained a zero-tolerance stance against any change of government that violates the constitution.
“We would like to reaffirm our commitment to support the government and people of Sierra Leone in seeking to deepen democracy and good governance by strengthening peace and security to promote socio-economic development. .”
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) also imposed flight schedule changes on departing airlines. In a statement from the SLCAA administration, the authorities said the measures were taken in view of the nationwide curfew imposed by the government.
“The SLLCAA announced today (yesterday) that passengers scheduled to depart from or arrive at Freetown International Airport (FNA) on flights scheduled for Sunday, November 26, 2023, are affected by the nationwide curfew declared by the state. We are aware that this has been done and is currently in effect.”
SLCAA has asked all airlines to reschedule passengers departing on the next available flight after the curfew is lifted, as SLCAA airspace remains open.
“We apologize for the inconvenience and urge you to abide by the curfew and follow the instructions of the national security forces.
“SLCAA is committed to its unflinching support to airlines and the broader aviation industry,” the agency added.
Source: guardian.ng