The Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone (IRCSL) has issued a strong statement expressing deep concern over the rising tide of politically divisive statements and hate speeches by political leaders and party members across the country.
In a press release dated 13th April 2026, the Council warned that words shared in public spaces, especially on social media, are becoming increasingly divisive, intimidating, and harmful — with the potential to threaten the peace the nation has worked so hard to build over the years.
Sierra Leone, the Council noted, is well known for its religious tolerance and unity. For decades, Muslims and Christians have lived side by side in harmony, setting an example for the world. The IRCSL argued that Sierra Leoneans expect to see a similar level of tolerance among politicians across party lines.
The statement emphasised that the peace and democracy the country enjoys today are the result of hard work and sacrifices by individuals who risked their lives and resources. The peacebuilding process, the Council said, remains ongoing and must not be reversed or undermined by provocative and unwise utterances that promote hatred, intimidation, mistrust, division, or violence.
The IRCSL has consistently condemned the use of invective, often directed at the mothers of political opponents. The Council stressed that Sierra Leonean women, especially mothers, deserve respect. Furthermore, children and young people can easily access these utterances on social media. The IRCSL reminded adults of their sacred duty to educate the younger generation in high moral values, urging that this responsibility should not be sacrificed for any political interest. For the sake of women — especially mothers — and the moral education of children and youth, the Council appealed for the use of language in political discourse that is not offensive.
The IRCSL called on all citizens, but especially political actors, their sympathisers, young people, and social bloggers, to be mindful of their words and actions. While freedom of expression is a right, the Council said it must be exercised responsibly — with respect for others and a commitment to promoting unity and national cohesion.
In this regard, the Council appealed to key institutions — particularly the Political Party Regulation Commission, the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs — to step up efforts in taking firm and fair action against hate speech wherever it occurs. The IRCSL stated that everyone has an important role in sustaining peace by ensuring that the laws of Sierra Leone are respected. Therefore, those who promote division, incitement, and political intimidation must be held accountable without fear or favour.
The Council reminded Sierra Leoneans that the peace enjoyed today is the result of great sacrifices and collective effort, and urged everyone to work together to protect it. “Let us choose the path of dialogue instead of confrontation and conflict, respect instead of insult, and unity instead of division inspired by hatred,” the statement concluded.
The IRCSL reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, tolerance, unity, and national cohesion, and urged all Sierra Leoneans to stand together and reject all forms of hate speech from politicians and their supporters.
Long live Sierra Leone. Long live the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone.
