FREETOWN, April 23, 2026 — The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has issued a strong warning over rising concerns about inflammatory political statements circulating in the country, urging restraint and responsibility from leaders, institutions, and citizens.
In a statement released in Freetown, the Commission said it had taken note of reports on social media and in public discussions alleging that some senior political figures had made remarks capable of inciting violence or deepening divisions. While noting it could not independently verify all such claims, the ICPNC stressed that any form of language perceived as threatening, dehumanising, or inciting harm is unacceptable.
The Commission emphasized that such rhetoric undermines the spirit of the Agreement for National Unity and poses a risk to the country’s hard-earned peace.
“Sierra Leone’s peace has been hard-won,” the statement noted, reaffirming that every citizen, regardless of political affiliation, has the right to safety, dignity, and free political participation.
The warning comes shortly after the conclusion of the Third Joint Assessment Mission by International Moral Guarantors, which had also called on stakeholders to reject hate speech and disinformation. The ICPNC endorsed those recommendations, describing any deviation as a threat to national stability.
The Commission called on political leaders across the spectrum, including the ruling government and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), to guide their supporters against engaging in threats, intimidation, or divisive language. It further urged political parties to enforce internal discipline where such conduct occurs.
Law enforcement agencies were also encouraged to act swiftly and impartially in addressing credible threats, while the media was advised to uphold professional standards by verifying information before publication.
Beyond immediate concerns, the ICPNC stressed the importance of fully implementing the eight-point agreement reached between the government and opposition through facilitated dialogue. It described the delivery of these commitments as a key test of political goodwill moving forward.
The Commission warned that inflammatory rhetoric could derail progress on the implementation agenda and called for renewed focus on national cohesion.
Reaffirming its mandate, the ICPNC said it would continue to monitor developments across Sierra Leone and remain ready to mediate where tensions arise.
“Peace is not the property of any party,” the Commission stated. “It belongs to every Sierra Leonean, and we will defend it without fear or favour.”
