The Sierra Leone Police has disallowed a planned peaceful protest and procession by the Citizens Advocacy Network (CAN), scheduled for August 26, 2026, in parts of Freetown.
In a letter dated August 20 and addressed to CAN Executive Director Thomas Moore Conteh, the Police said the decision followed the organisation’s notice of its planned demonstration and its refusal to attend an interview with the Inspector General of Police to discuss details of the proposed protest.
The Police said CAN had declined an invitation for an “ethical interview” scheduled for August 19 and had instead relied on Section 17(1) of the Public Order Act No. 46 of 1965.
Citing Section 17(2) of the Act, the Police said the proposed procession was being disallowed where, in its view, considerations relating to defence, public order, public safety or public morality warranted such action.
The Police also warned that under Section 17(3), anyone who participates in a procession that has been disallowed by the Commissioner of Police, or fails to comply with conditions imposed under the law, commits an offence.
The SLP said it remains committed to facilitating the peaceful expression of views and concerns in accordance with the law, while safeguarding public safety, public order and the rights of all persons.
