NEWS > Breaking News SLPP Convention Ends in Chaos in Sierra Leone.....As Delegates Took To Their Heels Posted by on Jan 31, 2009, 18:57

Solomon Berewa During 2007 Elections....Time To Put The Part y in Order...Violence is not the Answer

Unprinted languages, disrespect for elders, violent behaviours, pelting and throwing of stones and other deadly items here and there characterized the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) regional convention in Kenema on Saturday 31^st January, 2008. The atmosphere was transformed into a jungle field where men, women and children ran helter skelter to save their lives and their loved ones. Hanga Road, where the SLPP Headquarter is located in Kenema was deserted when the commotion erupted, with only those who know how to dodge “missiles” that are flying left, right and centre stood around and block their eardrums to prevent the sound of unprinted languages coming out from the mouth of some party members.

John Opongo Benjamin, staunch supporter of Arthur Kamara was visibly seen displaying some of the attributes of the Nazis as he defied all decency to cow down supporters of Francis Musa Kallon. Hon. Benedette Lahai, Dr. Hindowa Momoh, former NEC employee, Isata Jabbie-Kabbah, wife of ex-president Kabbah were all present at the scene in a very determined mood in support of Francis Musa Kallon for the position of Chairmanship of the SLPP Eastern region. Mr. M.A.Sandi the financial backbone of Francis Musa Kallon was in full gear to tear anyone apart, who would thread on his ground where he has invested so much money to give victory to his candidate Francis Musa Kallon.

Between 8 A.M. to 11A.M the township of Kenema, was reportedly calm; although signs of violence were imminent, it was not treated seriously but when the one people, one country slogan was dumped into the trash can, those who went to witness the electoral process came to the realization that the thirst for power has brought disunity into the party. 

Eyewitness account say obscene languages were traded against supporters and candidates for various positions in the party very cheaply. “When Bernadette Lahai and John Oponjo Bejamin looked at each other face to face with contours on their faces, it became clear then that friendship, party ship and one people, one country is no more the answer.” One party delegate told this press. “The hostile nature and the increased violence sent delegates away to save their body parts and lives.” He said.

The Electoral Commissioner, Joseph Moigueh seeing the deteriorating situation had no alternative but to cancel the regional election and postponed it indefinitely. Up to press time on Saturday no new date has been set for the regional election in Kenema.