AYV News, May 14, 2026
Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, has dismissed reports suggesting that the government intends to restrict religious preaching in Sierra Leone, reaffirming the country’s long-standing tradition of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims.
Speaking to journalists, the Minister clarified that ongoing consultations are aimed at developing a framework to regulate the conduct of religious clerics and not to interfere with freedom of worship or preaching.
She emphasised that the consultation process is broad, inclusive, and being conducted nationwide, adding that any recommendations emerging from the discussions would still require Cabinet approval before implementation.
Minister Karminty assured the public that the Government remains committed to protecting religious freedom while preserving the country’s culture of unity, peace, and mutual respect among different faith communities.
Reflecting on her experience at the Ministry of Social Welfare over the past three years, the Minister noted that several social challenges confronting the country, including drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, early marriage, and juvenile delinquency, are linked to the weakening of family structures.
She described the family as the foundation of society and stressed the importance of restoring family values in order to promote national development and social stability.
According to the Minister, rebuilding strong family systems will play a key role in addressing many of the social problems affecting communities across Sierra Leone.
Minister Karminty also announced that Sierra Leone will formally commemorate the International Day of Families for the first time since the United Nations established the observance in 1993.
She said the planned celebration would serve as an important platform for promoting family unity, social responsibility, and community wellbeing throughout the country.
