Produced by United Methodist News Service, official news agency of the United Methodist Church, with offices in Nashville, Tenn., New York, and Washington. In a June 10 telephone conversation with Ray A. Buchannan of the Society of St. Andrew, Humper said fighting in the city has subsided but looting and raping continues.
Food is extremely scarce.
What rice remains has doubled in price. Regardless of the consequences, he said they are striving to restore justice and a democratically-elected government. The Interreligious Council of Sierra Leone has met four times with top leaders of the coup, asking them to step down and allow the return of the country's president. Leaders of the coup have refused, asking the religious leaders for two years to establish their government. According to Humper, the council has firmly stated they want the rebels out of the country and a return of democratic leadership.