Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Former Government Minister, Sylvia Olayinka Blyden has shared photos of herself with Guinean soldiers inside the disputed territory of Yenga, sparking further concern amidst escalating tensions.
Blyden’s visit, documented on her Facebook page on May 24th, 2024, comes as reports emerge of increased Guinean military presence and displacement of Sierra Leonean citizens.
Blyden detailed her encounter, stating that one of the soldiers, initially pointing an AK47 at her vehicle, later smiled for a photograph after a dialogue.
“This is the power of Dialogue over Belligerence. This is the power of Diplomacy over War,” she wrote, highlighting her ability to “cajole anyone during engagements.”
She further stated that Chief Nyuma confirmed that a “MASSIVE number” of Guinean soldiers have crossed the border, and are now spread throughout Yenga.
Chief Nyuma, speaking to Blyden, reported that armed Guinean soldiers are present even in his compound, restricting movement in and out of Yenga. “Nobody can leave or enter Yenga now,” he said, expressing gratitude for the President’s dispatched rice aid, while also calling for the government to secure peace and freedom for his people.
These developments occur against a backdrop of growing concern. The Coalition of Civil Society and Human Rights Activists-Sierra Leone (CCSHRA) has condemned the “illegal occupation” by Guinean troops, demanding their immediate withdrawal or legal action. The coalition, which has monitored the situation since 2004, criticized the lack of effective government and international response, particularly regarding the construction of a Guinean military barracks on Sierra Leonean soil.
CCSHRA has called for the dissolution of the Mano River Union (MRU), deeming it ineffective, and urged the government to file a case against Guinea at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). They emphasized the national and international significance of the Yenga issue, warning of potential instability if the occupation is not addressed.
President Julius Maada Bio has responded by dispatching 400 bags of 50kg rice and 2,000 bags of 25kg rice to aid displaced persons in the region. Foreign Minister Alhaji Timothy Kabba stated that the President is engaged in “very serious” diplomatic efforts to resolve the dispute.
For More News And Analysis About Sierra-Leone Follow Africa-Press
