The Coalition of Civil Society and Human Rights Activists-Sierra Leone (CCSHRA) expressed deep concern over the ongoing illegal occupation of Yenga by Guinean troops, demanding for their immediate withdrawal, or swift legal action to be taken by the government.
Their earnest concerns were raised in an official press statement released after an Emergency National Executive Council Meeting held on 2nd May, 2025. Despite several negotiations, the illegal presence of the Guinean forces in Sierra Leone continues to pose significant challenges to national sovereignty and security.
CCSHRA conducted its meeting to address the Yenga Crisis, having closely monitored the situation since 2004 through its Free Yenga Campaign. They resolved to take a strong stance against the occupation.
The coalition unequivocally condemns the presence of Guinean troops in Yenga, calling for their immediate withdrawal, which they deem unconstitutional.
The statement highlighted the lack of effective action by the Government of Sierra Leone and international parties, particularly regarding the Guinean government’s construction of a permanent military barracks on Sierra Leonean soil between 2019 and 2022.
According to the coalition, the tacit endorsement of Guinean military action has led to increasing disrespect towards the Sierra Leonean people.
CCSHRA urged the government to pursue all peaceful measures to resolve the crisis and encourages youth and residents of Yenga to remain calm and law-abiding during this tumultuous period. They called on the Sierra Leonean government and international partners to adopt firm yet peaceful strategies to persuade Guinean forces to vacate Yenga.
In light of the ineffectiveness of the Mano River Union (MRU) in resolving the crisis, CCSHRA called for its dissolution, highlighting a need for more decisive action. The organization urged the Sierra Leonean government to file a case against Guinea in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) without delay.
Furthermore, the coalition emphasized that the Yenga issue should be recognized as a national and international crisis, not merely a local concern tied to Kailahun District. They warned that failing to address the occupation could lead to instability and hinder the development of both Kailahun and Sierra Leone at large.
The coalition acknowledged the bravery of the Sierra Leonean Army and Police confronting Guinean occupying forces and urged the government to start constructing a military barracks in Yenga, similar to the one established by Guinea in the area.
CCSHRA also called for immediate support for displaced persons and those living in fear along the Yenga axis, particularly women and children. They appealed to international partners, especially the United Nations, to intervene urgently, asserting that “prevention is better than cure.”
The coalition concluded that the situation in Kailahun District and Sierra Leone is precarious, stating, “Kailahun District and Sierra Leone are on a time bomb.” They emphasized that any actions taken by Guinean forces are carried out with the full knowledge and approval of the Guinean Central Command and government.
“Time to free Yenga is now. Lion Mountain should wake up from its sleep and take the right action,” the statement implored, reflecting the urgency and seriousness of the coalition’s demands.
As the situation continues to develop, the CCSHRA invited attention from both Sierra Leonean citizens and the international community to address the crisis at Yenga, in ensuring that the rights and peace of Sierra Leoneans are upheld.
Now the Sierra Leone 🇸🇱 government should prove to us the same energy they’ve been using against civilians in the country, Military to Military go and make us proud.