Atrocities, Diamonds and Diplomacy

by Peter Penfold

Overview

This insider memoir gives “unrivalled insight into the struggle to restore democratic government in Sierra Leone against a background of civil chaos.” (New Africa Analysis)

In early 1997, Peter Penfold arrived in Sierra Leone as the British High Commissioner. This fascinating book describes not only his eventful three year tour but the background and subsequent events that placed this small country at the center of the world stage. During his tour, Penfold found himself as right hand man to the country’s beleaguered President Kabbah. Due to rebel actions, including shocking atrocities, the author had to not only evacuate the international community (twice) but was forced out himself. At times he flew in daily from British warships as the situation was dangerously unstable. We learn how almost immediately after being praised by Prime Minister Tony Blair for his pivotal role in getting the once rich country back on its feet, he found himself under Customs and Excise investigation and Parliamentary Committee scrutiny for his supposed role in the Arms for Africa Enquiry. While reprimanded by the FCO, he was feted and made a Paramount Chief by the Sierra Leone people. Penfold describes how, after his tour was cut short despite his and the host Governments appeals, the situation again deteriorated. He gives a highly informed account of the subsequent events including the SAS Operation BARRAS the rescue of the British military hostages. This is a very important account based on the most privileged knowledge.

“Remarkable and compulsively readable.” —Kaye Whiteman, author, An African Journey

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781781593981
Publisher:	Pen & Sword Books Limited
Publication date:	01/24/2020
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	224
File size:	28 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

Peter Penfold CMG OBE enjoyed a hugely successful diplomatic career. He retired shortly after his standing down as High Commissioner but is a frequent visitor to, and well respected figure in Sierra Leone. He testified at UN Sierra Leone War Crimes Court.

He lives at Abingdon and is available for interview.

Table of Contents

Foreword ix

A Brief History of Sierra Leone xiii

Author's Note xvii

Prologue xix

Chapter 1 Welcome to Freetown - 1997 1

Chapter 2 Coup and Evacuation 17

Chapter 3 Living in Conakry 39

Chapter 4 Contacts with Sandline 54

Chapter 5 President Kabbah Restored - 1998 61

Chapter 6 Arms to Africa Scandal 73

Chapter 7 Treason Trials and Executions 87

Chapter 8 Rebel Advances - 1999 101

Chapter 9 Atrocities 112

Chapter 10 Lomé Peace Agreement 139

Chapter 11 No More Guns, No More Killing 153

Chapter 12 Farewell Sierra Leone - 2000 167

Chapter 13 British Forces and Blood Diamonds 181

Chapter 14 Di Wor Don Don - 2001 186

Epilogue 192

Glossary 194

Bibliography 196

Index 197