By Josephine Sesay

The Resident Minister of the South, Chief John Abu, has disclosed that the government has, on several occasions, taken disciplinary action against members of the Poro Society involved in the forced initiation of individuals into secret societies, including the Bondo Society.

Chief Abu made the revelation during an interview with Truth Media, where he addressed growing public concerns over traditional practices and the need to safeguard the fundamental rights and freedoms of Sierra Leoneans.

According to the Resident Minister, the government does not condone any form of coercion, intimidation, or force used to compel individuals to join secret societies. He stressed that authorities have acted against those found violating the law by forcing people into initiation ceremonies.

“The government does not support forced initiation into any secret society,” Chief Abu said, emphasizing that every citizen has the right to decide whether or not to participate in traditional cultural practices.

While acknowledging the historical and cultural significance of traditional institutions such as the Poro and Bondo societies, Chief Abu maintained that preserving cultural heritage must never come at the expense of individual freedoms or human rights.

He called on traditional leaders, community authorities, and society elders to promote responsible cultural practices that respect the choices of individuals and contribute to peaceful coexistence within communities.

The Resident Minister further noted that protecting citizens from forced participation in secret societies forms part of the government’s broader commitment to maintaining law and order, strengthening social harmony, and upholding the rule of law throughout the country.

His remarks come at a time when Sierra Leone continues to witness national conversations on balancing cultural traditions with constitutional rights, particularly regarding freedom of association and protection from coercion.

Human rights advocates have consistently called for stronger enforcement of laws against forced initiation, arguing that while traditional societies remain an important aspect of Sierra Leone’s cultural identity, participation should always be voluntary and based on informed consent.

Chief Abu’s comments reinforce the government’s position that cultural traditions must operate within the framework of the law and respect the rights and dignity of every citizen.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 29th July 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)