The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has intensified its efforts to promote peace and prevent conflicts across Sierra Leone, particularly in the wake of escalating tensions during intra-political party lower-level elections. These tensions have, at times, resulted in violence, posing a significant threat to national security and stability.

In response, the Peace Commission, in collaboration with the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), has initiated engagements with Paramount Chiefs, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), political party members and other key Governmental stakeholders. These discussions aim to identify existing threats and risks that could undermine peace and security in various regions, as well as explore effective strategies to mitigate these emerging challenges as the electoral process unfolds at the grassroots level.

Speaking during the engagement sessions, the Executive Secretary of the ICPNC, Madam Hawa Sally Samai, urged Paramount Chiefs from the Eastern, Southern, Northern and North-Western regions, alongside other relevant stakeholders, to take proactive roles in sensitizing their communities on the need for peace and stability. She emphasized that their involvement in advocating for peaceful participation in the ongoing intra-party elections is crucial to ensuring that these processes are conducted without violence or disruptions.

Furthermore, Madam Hawa Samai reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to addressing conflicts swiftly and effectively. She reminded the public that the ICPNC’s toll-free line (898) remains open for citizens to report complaints or incidents that have the potential to disrupt peace and security in Sierra Leone.

As the lower-level intra-party elections continue, the collaborative efforts of the ICPNC, traditional leaders, CSOs and political stakeholders are expected to play a vital role in fostering a culture of peaceful political engagement across the country.