By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a move to strengthen Sierra Leone’s commitment to sustained peace and stability, the Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC-SL), Madam Hawa Samai, has made a compelling call to Paramount Chiefs across the nation. Speaking at a gathering of District Executives of the Council of Paramount Chiefs in Masiaka, Madam Hawa Samai underscored the critical role of traditional leaders in ensuring that the forthcoming lower-level political party elections and the national census are conducted peacefully and harmoniously.
The Executive Secretary expressed her gratitude to the Paramount Chiefs for their longstanding collaboration with the Commission in promoting peace and fostering unity within their chiefdoms. She noted that their active participation in matters of national interest has been pivotal in defusing tensions and promoting dialogue at the grassroots level. Recognizing their unique position as custodians of culture and mediators within their communities, she urged them to remain steadfast in their efforts to cultivate a climate of mutual respect, understanding, and cohesion.
The Executive Secretary disclosed that the ICPNC-SL is planning a series of regional consultations aimed at deepening the collaboration between traditional authorities, the Inter-Religious Council and District Security Committees (DISEC). These consultations, she explained, will serve as platforms to explore innovative approaches to peacebuilding and to discuss strategies for consolidating stability in chiefdoms across the country. “The active involvement of Paramount Chiefs in these engagements is crucial to our shared vision of transitioning from negative peace, characterized by the absence of conflict, to positive peace, which embodies justice, inclusivity and sustainable development,” Madam Hawa Samai emphasized.
She further highlighted the importance of ensuring that the upcoming lower-level elections, which are integral to the democratic process, are conducted in an atmosphere free from violence and acrimony. Paramount Chiefs, she noted, are uniquely positioned to act as neutral arbiters, fostering dialogue and resolving disputes that may arise during the electoral process. “Your leadership and impartiality are critical to diffusing tensions and ensuring that the will of the people is respected,” she remarked, urging the Chiefs to engage their communities in peaceful dialogue and civic education initiatives.
The Executive Secretary also emphasized the significance of the national census as a vital tool for development planning and resource allocation. She called on the Chiefs to sensitize their subjects about the importance of participating in the census process, while also ensuring that it is conducted without disruption. “A credible and peaceful census is key to understanding the needs of our population and addressing them effectively. Your role in mobilizing your communities cannot be overstated,” she noted.
In her remarks, Madam Hawa Samai praised the collaborative efforts between the Commission and the traditional leadership in addressing past challenges. She acknowledged the proactive measures taken by many Paramount Chiefs to mediate conflicts and promote social harmony, often under challenging circumstances. This, she said, is a testament to their unwavering commitment to the well-being of their people and the nation at large.
The proposed regional consultations are expected to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including traditional leaders, religious figures, security personnel and civil society organizations, to deliberate on actionable strategies for promoting peace. The discussions will focus on conflict prevention, community engagement and the establishment of early warning mechanisms to identify and address potential sources of tension.
In Sierra Leone, continuing its journey toward sustainable peace and development, the leadership and influence of Paramount Chiefs remain indispensable. Madam Hawa Samai’s call to action is not only a recognition of their contributions but also a rallying cry for all Sierra Leoneans to embrace the principles of unity, inclusivity and mutual respect.
The meeting in Masiaka served as a poignant reminder that peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice and harmony. With the steadfast support of traditional authorities and the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, Sierra Leone can continue to build on its legacy of resilience, ensuring that its people thrive in a nation defined by peace and progress.
The role of Paramount Chiefs as custodians of peace and stability is as vital today as it has ever been. Their unwavering commitment to fostering dialogue, promoting understanding and addressing disputes is key to ensuring that Sierra Leone transitions from negative to positive peace; an enduring legacy for generations to come.
