The Disappearance of a Voice: The Plight of a Gay Man in Sierra Leone

DAVIDSON BAI LARKOH

The mysterious disappearance of a prominent gay man in the Northern Town of Makeni in Sierra Leone sends out a worrisome message to his fellow gay partners.  In this country, homosexuality remains criminalized and deeply stigmatized. Davidson Bai Larkoh, who was known for his bravery in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, vanished on 27th June 2023  under mysterious circumstances, prompting fears for his safety and calls for justice.Davidson continues to face relentless persecution throughout his life. Following the passage of harsh anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Sierra Leone, he became a target of

 violence and discrimination. Friends and family reported that he had received numerous threats, forcing him into hiding at various times. His activism, which included public speeches and community outreach, made him a symbol of hope for many, but also a target for those opposed to change.The investigation into his disappearance was initiated by a journalist who has been tirelessly working to bring attention to the plight of LGBTQ+ individuals in Sierra Leone. The Journalist uncovered a web of fear and silence through interviews with Davidson’s friends, family, and fellow activists.

“Davidson Bai Larkoh’s case highlights the urgent need for awareness and action, His story is not just about one man; it’s about countless others living in fear every day.” The reporter expressed Eyewitness accounts suggest that Davidson Bai Larkoh was last seen leaving a safe house where he had been staying. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance remain unclear, but many speculate that he may have been targeted by individuals opposed to his identity. The absence of a thorough investigation by local authorities has led to widespread frustration among advocacy groups.Close family members and friends are calling on the Sierra Leonean government to take immediate action to locate him and protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in the country.

“The ongoing persecution of LGBTQ+ individuals in Sierra Leone must end,” said Tracy Pearce, an LGBTQ activist. “Davidson’s case is a stark reminder of the dangers they face daily.” She added As the two-year mark of Davidson Bai Larkoh's disappearance approaches, the community remains hopeful yet anxious, with family and friends demanding justice and greater protection for vulnerable populations. Davidson’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in regions where their existence is criminalized, urging the world to listen and take action.The search for Davidson Bai Larkoh continues, and his disappearance is a call to action, urging all of us to stand against injustice and to support those who fight for their right to love freely and openly.

Davidson Bai Larkoh had developed a strong affection for his fellow men since he was a child as his father, Abu Bai Larkoh, was an active gay man. Even through his primary school days, he encountered a series of intimidation from his teachers and some of his friends who considered his beliefs to be diabolical. This did not frustrate him as he continued to with his life even when society sidelined him.

As a means of establishing contact with fellow gay men, Bai Larkoh established a gay WhatsApp forum, where they would occasionally discuss the challenges they faced and explore ways to overcome them.

Larkoh was among those who fought passionately for parliament to enact the gay rights bill in Sierra Leone. In a bid to get his way through, he eventually became an active member of a political movement in his native land. Sadly, for him, what he had desired was not granted by parliament.

The bill to legalize gay rights in Sierra Leone was not passed. As a result of this, he became a target for those who were strongly against LGBTQ. He was subjected to stigmatization and mockery, and to some extent, death threats were issued against him. Like Larkoh, many other gays living in Sierra Leone are hopeful that their dream will one day be fulfilled.

Davidson Bai Larkoh was a source of inspiration to many gay men in his hometown as he continued to provide support and comfort to them when they faced stigmatization.