July 15, 2021
By Ilyasa Baa
It has pleased his Excellency President Julius Maada Bio to appoint reputable Sierra Leoneans including former Secretary to late President Kabbah, Mr. Sheka Mansaray and three women to serve in the Board of Directors of the National Peace Commission.
His decision to form a national peace commission is in line with part three of the Sierra Leone Peoples Party manifesto which emphasized the need for a commission to deal with issues surrounding peace and national cohesion.
The appointment of Mr. Mansaray and Ms. Valnora Edwin together with seven others has been a welcomed idea to members of the public and Civil Society Organization (CSOs) who have been calling on the President to appoint unique individuals.
Press Secretary to the President, Yusuf Keketoma Sandy has described the appointees as unique Sierra Leoneans who have served the country well.
He said they represent different regions and interest groups in the country.
He assured that the Commission will help promote tolerance, help in conflict resolution and advise government accordingly.
It could be recalled that after the Bintumani Three Conference, the White Paper that came out called for a peace commission to deal with issues affecting the peace and stability of the country. Meanwhile, the Presidential appointees are putting modalities in place for the Commission to start operation.