The Citizens Advocacy Network (CAN) has formally notified the Sierra Leone Police of its intention to stage a peaceful protest and march on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. This planned demonstration aims to provide a platform for citizens to voice their concerns regarding alleged constitutional breaches and to submit a petition directly to President Julius Maada Bio. CAN Executive Director Thomas Moore Conteh stated that the protest's primary objective is to facilitate these key citizen engagements, emphasizing the organization's commitment to democratic processes. The network believes this public demonstration is a vital mechanism for citizens to exercise their fundamental rights and engage with the highest office of the land on matters of significant national importance.
Protest Details and Route
The Citizens Advocacy Network (CAN) formally notified Inspector-General of Police William Fayia Sellu of its protest plans in a detailed letter dated August 17, 2026. In this communication, the organization clearly stated its intention to conduct the march under the provisions of Section 17(1) of the Public Order Act of 1965, showing its adherence to legal frameworks. The planned demonstration is scheduled to commence at Lumley Beach, a prominent starting point for public gatherings. From there, participants will proceed along a carefully selected route designed to maximize visibility and impact. This route includes significant thoroughfares such as Stadium Car Park, Savage Street, St. John, Sanders Street, and Siaka Stevens Street. The protest is expected to culminate at State House, the seat of the presidency, where the organization intends to formally present its petition to President Julius Maada Bio. This route selection is strategic, aiming to draw widespread attention to the issues at hand.
CAN's Commitment to Peace
The Citizens Advocacy Network (CAN) has consistently emphasized its unwavering commitment to ensuring the planned protest will be peaceful, orderly, and non-violent. This commitment is central to their organizational ethos and the principles guiding the demonstration. According to the organization, all participants are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct, respecting the law, public and private property, security officers, and other individuals throughout the duration of the demonstration. CAN stated that its decision to organize the protest stems from its profound belief in the sanctity of the Constitution, the rule of law, and the fundamental right of citizens to protest peacefully. The group aims for the event to not only highlight its concerns but also to reflect these core principles, demonstrating responsible civic engagement. This emphasis on peaceful conduct is a cornerstone of CAN's approach to advocacy.
Police Coordination and Concerns
Recognizing the logistical complexities of a large public gathering, the Citizens Advocacy Network (CAN) has proactively requested the Sierra Leone Police to prepare thoroughly for various aspects of the planned protest. Specifically, CAN has asked the police to make arrangements for effective crowd control, efficient traffic management, ensuring public safety, and maintaining emergency access along the protest route. The organization conveyed its clear expectation that law enforcement would ensure these critical measures are competently in place for the entire duration of the event. Additionally, CAN has expressed a strong desire to meet with police officials in advance to discuss the practical arrangements for the demonstration. This proposed meeting aims to coordinate logistics meticulously, address any potential concerns, and ensure a smooth and secure execution of the march, fostering cooperation between the organizers and law enforcement.
Background and Context
The Citizens Advocacy Network (CAN) has clearly articulated that its primary concern, forming the foundational premise for the planned protest, revolves around alleged breaches of constitutional rules by Parliament during the process of amending the 1991 Constitution. The organization firmly believes that the legislative body has not adhered to established procedures and legal frameworks specifically designed for constitutional changes. This concern is not merely procedural but strikes at the heart of governance and the rule of law in Sierra Leone. CAN views these alleged violations as significant procedural irregularities in the amendment process, which could have broad implications. The group seeks to draw national attention to these perceived constitutional transgressions through its planned demonstration and the formal petition it intends to present to President Julius Maada Bio, advocating for adherence to constitutional principles.