“NO EXCUSES, NO SILENCE: THE U.S. WILL HOLD SIERRA LEONE ACCOUNTABLE TO ITS WORD AND TO PEACE”

Sierra Leone stands at a critical crossroads, and America’s partnership demands clarity, accountability, and results.

During a Senate hearing, two pointed questions were put to Mr. Travis regarding the future of U.S.-Sierra Leone relations and the integrity of agreements between both nations.

First: On Human Rights and the Third-Country Agreement
In its third-country agreement with the United States, for which the U.S. provided $1.6 million, the Government of Sierra Leone made a solemn commitment to uphold international legal obligations. That includes a clear pledge: not to return vulnerable individuals and migrants to countries where they face torture, persecution, or death.

There is now credible evidence suggesting Sierra Leone may be violating that commitment. The question posed was direct: If confirmed, will you commit to reporting back to this committee on the implementation of that third-country national agreement, and to raising any violations directly with the Government of Sierra Leone?

Mr. Travis responded unequivocally. Citing media reports on the matter, he stated that if confirmed, he will advocate that the Government of Sierra Leone comply with all of its agreements with the United States government, “to include the third country national agreement to the letter.” America’s credibility and the safety of vulnerable people depend on it.

Second: On Peace, Democracy and the 2023 National Unity Agreement
The second question focused on Sierra Leone’s fragile democracy. Following the 2023 presidential election, the then U.S. Ambassador played a key role in brokering a national unity agreement between the ruling party and the opposition. That agreement produced 80 key recommendations aimed at reform and preventing future election violence.

When asked what still needs to be done to ensure the next election does not trigger another wave of violence, Mr. Travis acknowledged the importance of Ambassador Hunt’s work. He noted that, to his understanding, progress on the 80 recommendations has not reached even halfway. He pledged that, if confirmed, making tangible progress on those reforms would be a top priority. He committed to working with U.S. partners, the Government of Sierra Leone, and civil society to ensure implementation.

He also reminded the committee that the trauma of Sierra Leone’s civil war still casts a long shadow over its politics. Sustained commitment from both political sides will be essential to move the country forward.

The Bottom Line
The message from Washington is clear: U.S. support comes with expectations. Whether it is protecting human rights under the third-country agreement or safeguarding democracy through the national unity accord, the United States expects Sierra Leone to honor its commitments. And with new leadership, it intends to monitor, report, and act.