Sierra Leone's Parliament has called on the Government to provide meaningful support to the families of security personnel who were killed or injured while defending the country during the failed attempted coup of 26 November 2025.
The appeal formed part of a motion debated and adopted by Parliament on Thursday, 16 July 2026, during proceedings that also commended the Government for discontinuing the criminal charges against former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma in the interest of national cohesion and reconciliation.
In the motion, moved by the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Sahr Mathew Nyuma and seconded by the opposition Leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo.
Lawmakers recognised the courage and sacrifice of members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, the Sierra Leone Police, the Correctional Service and other security agencies who risked their lives to protect the country's constitutional order during one of the most serious security crises in recent history.
Members of Parliament noted that while efforts to promote reconciliation are essential for national unity, the sacrifices made by those who defended the democratic state must not be forgotten. They argued that lasting peace can only be achieved when the nation honours those who paid the ultimate price and ensures that the families they left behind receive adequate care and support.
The House therefore urged the Government to put in place practical measures to assist the families of those who lost their lives and the personnel who sustained injuries while carrying out their constitutional duty. Such support, Members observed, should include financial assistance, access to healthcare, educational opportunities for children of the deceased, counselling services and other welfare programmes aimed at improving the livelihoods of affected families.
Several lawmakers maintained that recognising the sacrifices of the security forces is not merely a moral obligation but also an investment in strengthening national security and boosting the confidence of personnel serving on the frontlines.
They stressed that security officers who place their lives at risk in defence of the Constitution should have the assurance that, in the event of death or injury, the nation will stand by their families. According to Members, such assurances help reinforce professionalism, patriotism and commitment within the security sector.
Parliament also acknowledged that the failed coup attempt resulted in the loss of innocent lives and caused widespread fear and uncertainty across the country. Members observed that the swift response of the security forces prevented a further deterioration of the situation and helped preserve constitutional governance.
Lawmakers emphasised that national reconciliation should not diminish the importance of justice for victims or the recognition of those who defended the Republic. Instead, they argued that reconciliation and accountability should go hand in hand with compassion for the families of those who suffered the consequences of the attempted overthrow of the constitutional government.
The House encouraged the Executive to engage relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencie in developing a comprehensive support framework for affected families. Members said such an initiative would demonstrate the Government's appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of the country's security personnel while reinforcing public confidence in the state's commitment to those who serve.
The parliamentary resolution reflects a broader message that Sierra Leone's journey towards peace, unity and democratic stability must include both reconciliation and recognition of the sacrifices made by those who defended the nation's constitutional order during the events of 26 November 2025.



