Sierra Leone Successfully Thwarts Coup Attempt- Analysis

Sierra Leonean authorities stated that a group of armed men, including serving and retired soldiers, attempted to overthrow the government through a series of attacks on military facilities and prisons. The Minister of Information, Chernor Bah, reported that 13 military officials and one civilian had been arrested in connection with the incident. The government imposed a nationwide curfew on Sunday following clashes between security forces and the armed group. The attackers allegedly broke into Freetown Central Prison and released a number of inmates. At least 21 people were killed in the gunfire, including 14 soldiers and three assailants.

Idrissa Hamid Kamara, also known as Leatherboot, a prominent member of the opposition All People’s Congress party, was among the dead. Authorities have reported that nearly 2,000 prisoners escaped during the disturbances, with only a few voluntarily returning. The Sierra Leonean police have released photographs of 34 individuals wanted for their alleged involvement in the unrest, most of whom are linked to the main opposition APC party. Tensions in the country have been increasing since President Bio’s re-election in June, which drew criticism regarding transparency from the opposition and international observers.

This coup attempt comes at a time when there have been successful overthrows of democratically elected governments in the West African region, including Niger. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) condemned the event, describing it as a scheme to disrupt the peace and constitutional order of the member state. ECOWAS has expressed its readiness to assist Sierra Leone, including by strengthening national security and deploying regional elements if necessary.

Source: RT news: Coup attempt foiled in Sierra Leone