Mamud Kamara’s plight is both heartbreaking and concerning. Mamud was once a respected journalist working at the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) radio, passionately dedicating his time to interviewing people from all walks of life and facilitating open discussions on his interactive radio program. His program was widely acclaimed for allowing the public to share their opinions and express their concerns freely. However, it was his report on the ‘poro’ secret society and its harmful practices that initiated a chain of events that would change his life forever.
The ‘poro’ society, a highly secretive organization, had deep-rooted influence in Sierra Leone. The mere mention of it was considered taboo, let alone discussing it on air. This society held powerful individuals within the government and other sectors, making it a sensitive topic for anyone to broach. But Mamud’s dedication to journalism and his commitment to revealing the truth led him to fearlessly report on the ‘poro’ society’s practices through his radio program.
Sadly, shortly after Mamud’s revelation, tragedy struck his family. His family home in Calabatown was attacked and set ablaze. Thankfully, Mamud was not present during that fateful night, but his brother and mother were brutally beaten by the attackers. These attackers left a chilling message for his mother, informing her that Mamud would be killed wherever he was found.
In the wake of this horrifying incident, Mamud’s whereabouts remained unknown for over seven years, leaving his family deeply concerned and filled with anguish. The silence surrounding his disappearance only added to the fear and speculation surrounding the ‘poro’ secret society. There were reports of people being attacked and killed simply for uttering a word against the society, creating an atmosphere of terror and repression.
Furthermore, after Mamud’s report on the ‘poro’ society, a high-ranking politician used their influence to ensure Mamud’s termination from his position at the SLBC. He was seen as a significant threat to those who held power, and it was evident that his reporting had garnered unwanted attention from influential figures. The SLBC, often seen as a mouthpiece of the government, succumbed to the pressures applied by this politician.
Mamud Kamara’s story represents the danger that journalists face when fighting for the truth and exposing corruption. This deeply distressing situation led Mamud to become a victim of violence, intimidation, and eventually disappearance. His family’s anguish continues to grow, desperately searching for answers about his whereabouts.
The international community must recognize and address the plight of journalists like Mamud, who risk their lives to shed light on corruption and injustices.