Govt Activates Article IV Of National Unity Agreement
In a significant move towards national reconciliation, charges against Councilor Sheku Alhassan Gibril Turay, a prominent member of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), have been dismissed.
This action aligns with the ongoing implementation of Article IV of the Agreement for National Unity, a pact aimed at fostering peace and cohesion in Sierra Leone.
The Agreement for National Unity, signed on October 18, 2023, between the Government of Sierra Leone and the APC, comprises several resolutions designed to promote political stability. Article IV specifically addresses the release of individuals detained for alleged political reasons, the discontinuation of politically motivated court cases against APC members, and the safe return of political exiles.
The United States Embassy has lauded both the government and the APC for their strides in enacting Article IV, viewing the dismissal of charges against Councilor Turay as a testament to their dedication to justice and democratic principles.
The Embassy expressed confidence in the judiciary’s role in building public trust and ensuring equitable justice for all Sierra Leoneans.
Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr also celebrated this development, sharing her enthusiasm on social media: “Implementation of Resolution 4 of the #AgreementForNationalUnity is finally underway! Thrilled to witness the discharge of the case against Cllr Sheku Alhassan Gibril Turay (aka Cllr Ice T) this morning.”
She extended gratitude to the APC leadership, legal teams, Attorney-General Hon. Alpha Sesay, government officials, and members of the Resolution 4 Committee for their roles in this achievement.
Mayor Aki-Sawyerr remains optimistic about further releases, as the implementation process continues.
The dismissal of charges against Councilor Turay signifies a pivotal step in Sierra Leone’s journey toward unity and political stability. Both national and international stakeholders are hopeful that the full execution of the Agreement for National Unity will pave the way for enduring peace and democratic reform in the country.