By: Ilyasa Baa
National Publicity Secretary of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), who doubles as the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Lahai Lawrence Leema has said the accusation on social media that the First Lady Dr. Fatima Bio uttered in Kailahun hate speech against the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party recently does not in any way amount to hate speech, according to the party mouthpiece.
He claimed that the video was misconstrued and used by the opposition to attack the Office of the First Lady which is an extension of the Presidency. He said Dr. Fatima Bio being the he First Lady, is also a senior party card carrier who has the right to put the records straight anywhere she goes, Leema justified, pointing out that like the President, she also has to address factual issues for the benefit of the nation although her office is not statutorily provided for but continues to be an integral element of the governance structure of the country.
” As a party in governance, we are against making hate speeches or playing provocative songs to demean others in the political race”, assured Leema, adding that the party will continue to provide leadership to its members against hate speech which he said has the potential to put the country into chaos.
In his defence, he said he had seen the video in question where it was alleged that the First Lady told people in Kailahun not to allow the APC to build office in the district. He said Mrs. Maada Bio is aware that all political parties have the right to build offices where ever they wish as long as they are legal.
It could be recalled that the APC had criticized the First Lady’s comment in Kailahun saying it would spark political tension ahead of June 24 polls. The National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Sidi Yayah Tunis has on a number of occasions said they are worried over the trend at which hate speeches are unleashed to members of the public.
However, the Political Parties Regulations Commission (PPRC) has warmed political parties to desist from hate speeches and provocative songs so that the elections will be peaceful.
