The U.S. Embassy in Sierra Leone has praised the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the All Peoples Congress (APC) for their collaborative effort in condemning hate speech and advocating for constructive political dialogue. This commendation arrives as a prelude to the forthcoming final report from the Election Review Committee, slated for release on June 19. The Embassy extends its support to these endeavors, which resonate with the goals of the Agreement for National Unity, aimed at fostering peace, social cohesion, and democracy within Sierra Leone.
In a joint statement on Monday, Sierra Leone’s two principal political factions, the SLPP and APC, expressed deep apprehension over the escalating tensions evident in both domestic and diaspora political discourse. The parties have jointly reaffirmed their commitment to the Agreement for National Unity, a pivotal accord designed to tackle these emerging challenges.
The Agreement for National Unity outlines a framework to:
- Resolve political differences through peaceful means.
- Bolster democratic institutions.
- Foster regular cross-party dialogue.
- Unify Sierra Leoneans across all spectra.
This commitment underscores the shared dedication of the SLPP and APC towards advancing Sierra Leone’s broader national interests.
Both parties staunchly advocate for the fundamental rights of free speech and freedom of the press as cornerstones of democracy. Nonetheless, they underscore the importance of exercising these rights responsibly, emphasizing that:
- Free speech should not be a tool for inciting violence.
- Individuals should not be targeted based on ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, or political affiliation.
- Spreading hatred against any ethnic or religious group is intolerable.
The SLPP and APC express grave concern over recent instances of hate speech by political commentators, both domestically and abroad, deeming such behavior unacceptable and antithetical to their core values. They call upon all Sierra Leoneans to reject hate speech, asserting that it has no place in political discourse.
Furthermore, both parties pledge their support for the investigation and prosecution of individuals inciting violence, stressing the importance of adhering to legal and human rights standards. Ensuring the protection of the rights of all SLPP and APC members and supporters is paramount in the current political climate.
As the deadline for the final report of the Electoral Review Committee approaches, the SLPP and APC anticipate heightened political discourse. They urge all Sierra Leoneans to engage in respectful and dignified dialogue, eschewing personal attacks and threats of violence. Hate speech has no room in Sierra Leonean politics, and those perpetrating it have no place within the political sphere.
The SLPP and APC remain steadfast in their commitment to combating hate speech and violence. They pledge to collaborate with civil society organizations and international partners to cultivate a safe and respectful political environment.
Together, the SLPP and APC aspire to build a peaceful and inclusive Sierra Leone for all its citizens, rallying all Sierra Leoneans to unite in fostering a future where political discourse is conducted with civility and democratic values are upheld.
