Many Sierra Leoneans believe that homosexuality, lesbianism and bisexuals (the LGBT lifestyle) are practised exclusively by or through inducements by foreigners.
A number of Sierra Leoneans, even those with considerable exposure to Western culture, said homosexuality does not exist locally, and if there were any cases they were due directly to Western influence.
The few Sierra Leoneans who admitted knowing someone they believed to be homosexual said that that individual would in no case openly admit it, and if they did, they would be shunned by their families and friends, and possibly threatened by community members. The law prohibiting homosexuality carries a penalty of life imprisonment, the death penalty for “indecent assault” upon a man, or 10 years for attempting such an assault.
Politicians, political parties, and other political organisations in Sierra Leone avoid making public statements on homosexual rights or come out in opposition to them on religious grounds.
Consequently, the Sierra Leone Police and Aberdeen Community have declared Alimamy Kalokoh wanted for the practice of homosexual in the community, this press was informed.
According to investigations conducted by this media, Alimamy Kalokoh comes from an Islamic background and his father is an Imam and Traditional Leader who is against the practice of homosexual behavior, which he believes to be “ungodly”. He disowned his son because their belief systems are apart.
According to his uncle who spoke to this reporter, Alimamy’s father died after his son was caught red handed with another fellow having intercourse, which death motivated his uncle to mobilise community youth to fight against Alimamy and his homosexual practices, resulting to Kalokoh fleeing the community to save his life.
Sources revealed that the Aberdeen Community on two occasions ganged up and raided his residence, where he was mercilessly assaulted, had his properties stolen, with the home nearly set ablaze.
All efforts by the community people to put an end to Alimamy’s homosexual practices proved fruitless. It became even harder work for him to be accepted in the community and family.
When the mother was contacted about the whereabouts of his son she said she had long disowned him because of his sexual practice and beliefs which are not in line with her religion, culture, and tradition. She further said the youth of the community have vowed to take Alimamy’s life if he is seen in the community or anywhere in the country.
Investigations continue.
