The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) expresses its unequivocal condemnation of the attempted coup that occurred on Sunday, November 26, 2023. This incident poses a grave threat to the hard-earned peace in Sierra Leone and undermines the collective efforts invested in the recent series of stakeholder conversations and the mediated dialogue of September 18th, 2023.
In a democratic republic like Sierra Leone, we emphasize the importance of resolving issues through dialogue rather than resorting to violent means. The use of guns resulting in the loss of lives and property is not only tragic but also a stark departure from the principles of democratic governance.
The events of November 26th caused widespread unrest and panic and disrupted the peace that had been genuinely achieved through the active participation and contributions of citizens, political parties, religious and traditional leaders, the government, and development partners. The peace we enjoy is invaluable, and we must jealously guard and preserve it with our lives.
The Peace Commission calls on all citizens to cooperate and work with the authorities, especially the security sectors, to maintain the restored peace. We acknowledge the efforts of the state security forces in swiftly responding to the attempted breach, and we encourage continued collaboration for the safety and well-being of the nation.
Furthermore, the Peace Commission appeals to all citizens to refrain from sharing unverified news, particularly on social media, as such actions have the potential to create undue tensions and panic, serving as a recipe for chaos and social unrest in the country. Sierra Leone is our collective home, and we must not jeopardize its stability for personal interests or gains.
As the ICPNC, we stand firm in our commitment to supporting peace and national cohesion. In light of these recent events, we call for a full and impartial investigation into the attempted coup plot, ensuring accountability and justice, a steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting human rights and open andinclusive dialogue on the country’s political and economic challenges, addressing underlying grievances.
We firmly believe that these steps are crucial to preventing further instability and promoting sustainable peace in Sierra Leone. We urge all parties to collaborate in addressing the root causes of the unrest, working towards a more just and equitable society for all Sierra Leoneans.
We believe in Sierra Leone’s potential to be a beacon of peace and democracy in West Africa, and we are committed to working to achieve this vision.
Together, let us preserve the peace that defines us as a nation and strive towards a prosperous and harmonious future for all.
LEH WE ALL JOIN HAN FOR MAINTAIN PIS NA SALONE.
