In a significant move toward fostering peace and social cohesion, the U.S. Embassy in Sierra Leone has praised the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the All Peoples Congress (APC) for their resolute joint statement denouncing hate speech and promoting constructive political dialogue.
“The Embassy applauds the strong and unambiguous statement by the SLPP and APC condemning all forms of hate speech and urging constructive political discourse in the run-up to the release of the final report of the Election Review Committee on June 19,” the Embassy announced on social media.
“We strongly support these efforts consistent with the Agreement for National Unity to promote peace, social cohesion, and democracy in line with the aspirations of the Sierra Leonean people.”
On Monday, Sierra Leone’s two major political parties, the SLPP and APC, voiced their deep concern over the increasing tensions in political discourse both domestically and among the diaspora.
They expressed their alarm at the rise in inflammatory rhetoric and pledged to uphold peaceful and respectful political engagement through the newly signed Agreement for National Unity.
“This landmark agreement signifies our commitment to resolving political differences peacefully and respectfully,” an SLPP spokesperson stated. “We aim to strengthen our democratic institutions and resume regular cross-party dialogue to unite Sierra Leoneans across all divides.”
Both parties reaffirmed their dedication to free speech and press freedom as essential democratic rights but emphasized that these rights come with responsibilities.
“Free speech should not be a tool for inciting violence or spreading hatred,” an APC representative remarked. “Individuals must not be disparaged based on ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, or political affiliation.”
The SLPP and APC expressed serious concerns about the recent surge in hate speech from political commentators both in Sierra Leone and abroad.
“Such behavior is unacceptable and contradicts the core values of both our parties,” the SLPP spokesperson continued. “We call on all Sierra Leoneans to reject hate speech and recognize that it has no place in our political discourse.”
The joint statement highlighted the importance of legal action against those who incite violence, stressing that these prosecutions must adhere to legal and human rights standards.
“Protecting the rights of all SLPP and APC members and supporters is paramount,” the APC representative added.
The SLPP and APC have called on international partners to support their efforts in ensuring justice is served fairly and thoroughly.
“Their assistance is crucial in maintaining a just and peaceful society,” said the SLPP spokesperson.
With the Electoral Review Committee’s final report deadline approaching, the parties anticipate a surge in political discourse. They urged all Sierra Leoneans to engage respectfully and avoid personal attacks and threats of violence.
“Hate speech has no place in our country,” the APC representative asserted. “Those who propagate it have no place in our political parties.”
The SLPP and APC are committed to continuously monitoring and addressing hate speech and violence, collaborating with civil society organizations and international partners to ensure a safe and respectful political environment.
In a final call for unity, the SLPP and APC reiterated their dedication to building a peaceful and respectful Sierra Leone.
“Together, we can create a future where political discourse is conducted with respect, and our democratic values are upheld,” the SLPP spokesperson concluded.
