Caritas Freetown Lauds Launch of Peace Commission ahead of Elections in Sierra Leone

Freetown, 23 April, 2023 / 9:00 PM

The Executive Director of Caritas Freetown has lauded the launch of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, noting that the body will promote stability in Sierra Leone as the country approaches its general elections scheduled for June 24.

In his presentation at the Thursday, April 20 launch that was presided over by Sierra Leone's President, Julius Maada Bio, Fr. Peter Konteh said that the newly established Commission will also speed up the healing process in the country that experienced many years of civil war.

“The launch of the independent commission for peace and national cohesion is a crucial step towards promoting peace, stability, and unity in Sierra Leone. This institution is of great importance and relevance to the country, especially given its past history of civil conflict and political unrest,” Fr. Konteh said.

He added, “The commission's establishment demonstrates a commitment to addressing the root causes of conflict and promoting national cohesion through the implementation of measures such as dialogue, conflict resolution, and community engagement.”

According to the Caritas Freetown Executive Director, the commission's independence from the government and political parties will ensure that its decisions are impartial, fair, and free from external influence.

Fr. Konteh acknowledged the progress that Sierra Leone had made in achieving sustainable peace and development, noting that the West African country, however, was still facing challenges such as tribalism, corruption, and economic inequality.

The mandate of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion to promote national cohesion and address these challenges, he said, would be vital to ensure Sierra Leone’s continued progress toward sustainable peace and development.

The member of the Clergy of the Archdiocese of Freetown who has been vocal about elections in Sierra Leone expressed the Catholic Church’s commitment to continue working towards peace in the country before, during, and after the June 24 poll.

“The Catholic Church has consistently emphasized the importance of peace in Sierra Leone and has been actively involved in promoting peace and reconciliation efforts in the country. The Church continues to advocate for peace and social justice and provides support to communities affected by conflict and violence.,” Fr. Konteh said.

He added that the Church has been actively involved in promoting peace and reconciliation efforts in the country since the end of the civil war in 2002.

The Sierra Leonean Catholic Priest lauded the launch of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion as “a significant development for Sierra Leone,” adding, “The commission's mandate to promote national cohesion and address the root causes of conflict is vital for ensuring the country's continued progress towards sustainable peace and development.”