By: Aminata Sesay
The Speaker of the Parliament of Sierra Leone, Rt. Hon. Segepoh, has strongly condemned the growing trend of citizens branding the country as a “drug nation,” describing such actions as self-destructive and unpatriotic.
Addressing Members of Parliament during Monday’s plenary session, the Speaker expressed deep concern over the manner in which some Sierra Leoneans, including respected figures in society, are leading narratives that tarnish the nation’s image both domestically and internationally.
“This nation is propagating slavery,” the Speaker declared. “The level at which citizens are branding this nation as a drug nation is unfounded. People we hold in high regard are the ones leading this charge. We are the ones destroying this nation.”
Rt. Hon. Segepoh decried what he referred to as “self-inflicted national damage,” emphasizing that citizens must demonstrate a stronger sense of patriotism and responsibility in their public statements. He cautioned politicians and public commentators against using divisive or damaging rhetoric for political gain, noting that such actions only serve to undermine national unity and progress.
Drawing comparisons with other countries, the Speaker highlighted that criminal behavior exists in every society, yet responsible citizens do not generalize such acts to define their entire nation.
“You go to America, you go to England there are bad people everywhere. Yet, you don’t hear their citizens labeling their countries as failed or drug nations,” he stated. “Why are we so determined to destroy the little progress we’ve made?”
He further appealed to Sierra Leoneans to promote positive discourse and support efforts aimed at improving the country’s governance and development trajectory.
“A writer once said that when something bad is happening in a nation, let someone speak out before leaving the stage,” he quoted. “We must be that voice of truth and change, not one of destruction.”
The Speaker’s remarks come amid growing public concern over recent narratives linking Sierra Leone to drug-related activities. His statement serves as a reminder of the collective duty of all citizens particularly those in leadership positions to safeguard the nation’s reputation while addressing its challenges constructively.