The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has engaged the local Media on a dialogue on the topic: ‘A National Conversation on Reconciliation’, with specific reference to post elections in Serra Leone.

The ICPNC was established as one of the key resolutions of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to devise strategies and measures to prevent, manage and resolve conflicts, and to build, promote and maintain sustainable peace through national cohesion in Sierra Leone.

Executive Secretary of ICPNC, Hawa Samai said the media plays a crucial role in the dissemination of information and therefore is pivotal in the post elections reconciliation in the country.

She said the Peace Commission Act was enacted by Parliament in 2020 and actual operations started in 2021, adding that Sierra Leone is known to be a very peaceful country.

Madam Samai said: “We should strive very hard to maintain that,” while underscoring that the aim of the Commission is to transform the mindset of the people to be more productive and development oriented and encouraged the media to be partners in achieving that.

Board Chairman of the ICPNC, Reverend Johnson said the conversation requires collective work, noting that everyone is important and has a role to play in its execution.

He said anytime there is a gap, something has to fill the void, highlighting the significance of accurate and timely information to counter disinformation.

He called on the media to be prompt in countering fake news and not to be a party to it, while further stating that the media should take the lead in preaching peace and reconciliation to enhance a stable and progressive economy.

He said: “The pen is mightier than the sword. I called on all media practitioners to utilise it for the good of the nation”.