By Saidu Jalloh
In a recent appearance on a local radio station, Alhaji Alpha Khan, the Presidential Spokesperson of Sierra Leone, delivered a fervent message addressing the threat misinformation poses to national peace and cohesion. Khan emphasized the importance of citizens verifying information with the appropriate authorities before taking any action. He called upon all political figures to collaborate in disseminating correct information, highlighting the pivotal role of the President in safeguarding the nation.
Khan asserted that the President serves as the guardian of Sierra Leone’s people. In times of turmoil, he assured, the President stands ready to assert authority and protect the populace. However, he urged citizens to refrain from succumbing to misleading information, emphasizing the need for accuracy and diligence in their sources.
Moreover, Khan underscored the critical role of parliamentarians in maintaining national cohesion. He emphasized that the peace of Sierra Leone rests not solely in the hands of the executive branch but is equally, if not more, reliant on the collective efforts of parliamentarians. As representatives from diverse backgrounds and opinions, parliamentarians are tasked with setting a unifying tone that fosters cohesion among citizens.
Echoing Khan’s sentiments, Hawa Sally Samia, the Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, reiterated Sierra Leone’s status as one of Africa’s most peaceful nations. Citing the Global Peace Index, she highlighted Sierra Leone’s commendable ranking as the third most peaceful country on the continent. However, Samia cautioned against complacency, stressing the need to strive for “positive peace” wherein underlying tensions are addressed proactively.
Samia acknowledged the economic challenges facing Sierra Leone, attributing them not only to domestic factors but also to global turbulence. She emphasized that addressing these issues is a shared responsibility, urging both the government and the opposition to engage constructively in finding solutions. Samia stressed the importance of constructive criticism and the opposition’s role in holding the government accountable, advocating for their inclusion in governance processes.
In conclusion, both Khan and Samia reiterated the imperative of combating misinformation and fostering national cohesion. They called for unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the continued peace and prosperity of Sierra Leone.
