By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown/Geneva, April 24, 2026: The United Nations has raised concerns over the alleged arbitrary detention and harassment of two Sierra Leonean human rights defenders, Prince Tommy Williams and Mohamed Turay, both senior officials of the civil society organisation Lifeline Nehemiah Projects.
In a formal communication addressed to the Government of Sierra Leone, four UN Special Rapporteurs warned that the arrests and intimidation of the activists appear directly linked to their peaceful advocacy work. The letter cites repeated police raids, use of tear gas in community gatherings, and ongoing threats against LNP members and beneficiaries.
Key Allegations
- Police operations at the LNP compound allegedly resulted in injuries and the death of a two-day-old baby.
- Williams and Turay were arrested and charged with offences including “riotous conduct” and “incitement,” despite repeated adjournments due to lack of evidence.
- Construction continues on LNP’s compound despite a High Court injunction and a formal complaint lodged with the UNDP’s Social and Environmental Compliance Unit.
UN Position
The communication, signed by Special Rapporteurs Mary Lawlor, Irene Khan, Ganna Yudkivska, and Gina Romero, stresses that the alleged targeting of Williams and Turay violates international human rights standards, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The UN experts requested Sierra Leone to:
- Provide the legal basis for charges against the defenders.
- Outline protection measures for them and LNP members.
- Guarantee that human rights defenders can operate safely without intimidation.
- Halt alleged violations and ensure accountability for perpetrators.
Next Steps
The UN warned that the case may be referred to the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention for an opinion on whether the arrests were arbitrary. The communication will be made public within 60 days unless the Government responds sooner.