The National Commission for Democracy (NCD) has raise concerns over what they described as “tribal slurs and invectives that are inimical to the current political dispensation and the peace and stability of the entire country”.
The Commission say this is consequent upon recent happenings in Sierra Leone and pursuant to its mandate of establishing the right culture of democracy.
The Commission said it has to be noted that any attempt to fan the flames of tribalism for whatever reason cannot serve in the best interest of any individual or group in the length and breadth of the country.
The Commission said: “It, therefore, behoves everyone, Sierra Leoneans and other nationals, living in Sierra Leone and out of Sierra Leone and in the context of recent happenings to desist from directly or indirectly promoting anything, by words or action, that will divide the country further. It is rather in place to work assiduously as we promote national unity, political tolerance and social cohesion especially in light of the forthcoming elections as we all contribute with all sincerity to keeping the peace as we enhance inclusive and sustainable development in the best interest of our beloved motherland, Sierra Leone”.
The Management of NCD used the forum as an opportunity to remind all about the bitter experiences of the civil war that wreaked unfathomable havoc on Sierra Leone for almost eleven years.
The Commission concluded saying: “We are further reminded that it is better to “jaw-jaw” than to “war-war”, thus noting that no matter what happens, we must be ready to negotiate in the best interest of every Sierra Leonean and spare this country anything that will cripple it any further as we strive to recover from the negative impact of the bloody civil war that derailed the progress of the country. We must be prepared to disagree to agree and not create any atmosphere or situation that we might regret for a very long time to come. We must be prepared to use decent means to retain or obtain power and bequeath to posterity a legacy that will endear this generation in their eyes and avoid a situation wherein they will curse our very memories. Together, we can transform the destiny of our beloved motherland, Sierra Leone, and make it the envy of all. Let us strive to put an end to the factors of disunity as we embrace the elements of unity, tolerance, and cohesion in the best interest of inclusive and sustainable development.”
