AYV News, July 24, 2026
The Artists for Peace Initiative and the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) are exploring a strategic partnership aimed at promoting peace, non-violence and national unity as Sierra Leone prepares for its upcoming elections.
The initiative was discussed during a courtesy visit by the President of Artists for Peace, Hassan Daramy, popularly known as CJ Mark, and members of his executive team to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, at Police Headquarters in Freetown on Thursday, 23 July 2026.
The engagement focused on how artists and entertainers can use their influence to support peacebuilding efforts, encourage responsible citizenship and discourage political violence before, during and after the electoral process.
Speaking during the meeting, CJ Mark said Artists for Peace was established to harness the power of music, entertainment and public engagement to promote peaceful coexistence among Sierra Leoneans.
He stressed that the initiative remains politically neutral and is not affiliated with any political party or interest group, but is solely committed to promoting peace, national cohesion and unity.
“Our objective is to harness music, entertainment, and public engagement to encourage Sierra Leoneans to reject violence and embrace peaceful dialogue. We believe our message has greater impact when people trust that it is free from political influence,” CJ Mark stated.
He explained that the organisation’s non-violence campaign targets political stakeholders, traditional leaders, young people, women, civil society organisations and communities, with the goal of strengthening peace and stability across the country.
CJ Mark added that collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police would enhance efforts to prevent conflict, promote responsible participation in democratic processes and build public confidence ahead of elections.
In response, Inspector General of Police William FayiaSellu welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and consistent with the SLP’s community-oriented policing philosophy.
The IGP noted that partnerships with community-based organisations and other stakeholders remain central to the Police’s efforts to strengthen public trust, maintain national security and promote peaceful communities.
He highlighted that the Police’s public awareness campaigns extend beyond election security to address broader social issues including peacebuilding, crime prevention, public safety, the fight against illicit drugs and other challenges affecting national development.
IGP Sellu encouraged Artists for Peace to sustain its advocacy beyond the election period, emphasising that continuous civic education and engagement are essential for preserving Sierra Leone’s peace.
“Sierra Leone is the only nation we have, and we must all work together to make it better,” the IGP said.
To further strengthen the partnership, IGP Selluproposed the organisation of Peace and Non-Violence Concerts in strategic locations across the country.
He said the concerts would create platforms for artists and the Police to jointly engage citizens, particularly young people, on the importance of peaceful coexistence, respect for the rule of law and national unity.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to working together to promote lasting peace, enhance public safety and support a peaceful, secure and inclusive democratic process in Sierra Leone.
The proposed collaboration is expected to complement ongoing national efforts to prevent electoral violence and promote a culture of peace through dialogue, music and community participation.
