By: Saidu Jalloh, Reporter
On December 13, 2024, the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) held a poignant Farewell and Pulling-Out Ceremony for recently retired Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant-General Peter Kakowou Lavahun. The event, hosted at the Julius Maada Bio Parade Square in Wilberforce Barracks, marked the official exit of the CDS after an impressive 36-year military career, symbolized by his final appearance in military regalia.
In his farewell address, Lieutenant-General Lavahun expressed a blend of joy and sorrow, stating, “It is a moment of joy because I have reached the finishing line of my career. However, it is also a moment of tears because I have left you as ‘work mates’ forever.” He reflected on a tenure marked by significant security challenges, acknowledging the dedication of those who stood by him during turbulent times. Lavahun emphasized the honor associated with military service, urging soldiers to uphold the trust placed in them by the people of Sierra Leone.
Highlighting the importance of loyalty, the former CDS reminded soldiers that their allegiance should lie with the Constitution and the citizens, not with political parties or individual interests. He urged them to remain focused and apolitical, cautioning against the influence of misguided individuals. Lavahun appealed to the community to support RSLAF’s neutrality, underscoring that the effectiveness of the armed forces relies on both the soldiers and the public.
The ceremony culminated with the formal handover of the baton of leadership to the newly appointed CDS, Major-General Amara Idara Bangura. In a symbolic gesture, Lavahun and his wife, Mrs. Bintu Lavahun, were escorted from the military barracks in a parade vehicle, marking the end of an era for the RSLAF. Lavahun, who joined the army in 1988, was appointed as CDS in August 2022 amid significant national unrest, demonstrating his capability in navigating complex security landscapes.
Following his retirement, Lieutenant-General Lavahun has been appointed as Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Republic of Kenya, while Major-General Fred Dauda Alpha, his second-in-command, has been named Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria. Their departures coincide with the retirement of 70 additional officers, reflecting a broader transition within the armed forces as the RSLAF continues to adapt to changing security dynamics.
