The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Fred Carew has disclosed giving instructions for an inquest to be held into the death of “For di People” Acting Editor, Harry Hassan Yansaneh.
Disclosing this at the launching of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) report of the, the Attorney General said he has received a letter from SLAJ’s solicitor- Lawyer Jenkins-Johnston regarding request for an investigation into the death of the late Editor. He revealed that the matter would be thoroughly investigated as he has already given instructions for the inquest to begin.
Meanwhile, UNAMSIL Human Rights Section Head- Mr. Benedict Sannoh addressing the gathering at the launching of the TRC report made mentioned of the issue of the deceased ?For di People’ acting Editor. He stated, “all over the world. beatings and killings and other forms of gross human rights abuse and violations do take place on a daily basis.” “What makes those societies differ from many is that these crimes are routinely and timely investigated; the perpetrators arrested no matter who they are; charged, prosecuted and punished if found guilty,” Mr. Sannoh went on. A society he maintained cannot flourish if respect for human dignity and the rule of law is non-existent.
The UNAMSIL Human Rights Chief stated further: “It would be a gross miscarriage of justice, an affront to the people of this county and to the international community, who are working so hard to bring peace to this country, if the perpetrators of this despicable conduct, no matter their status, are not arrested, charged and prosecuted.” Mr. Sannoh urged the Government to allow justice to prevail; adding: “We urge the Government to seek the extradition to Sierra Leone of any person suspected of implication in the death of Mr. Yansaneh for prosecution.” He assured that his office remains ceased of the matter and will exert pressure to bring about the appropriate action.
IS MAADA A LISTENING PRESIDENT?