Fambul Tok-Sierra Leone, has joined millions of Sierra Leoneans and friends of Sierra Leone to commend the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the All-People’s Congress (APC) Party for their historic agreement to unite against hate speech and uphold peaceful political discourse.
The historic commitment, as described by many, reflects a commendable dedication to advancing Sierra Leone’s national interest and fostering a culture of mutual respect and cooperation.
There has been a public support for the SLPP and APC’s stance on safeguarding free speech and press freedom as fundamental pillars of democracy.
Fambul Tok said in a statement: “We echo their sentiment that these rights, while vital, must be exercised responsibly and not as instruments of violence or discrimination based on ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, or political affiliation.
“Fambul Tok-Sierra Leone shares the concerns of the SLPP and APC regarding the recent surge in hate speech, both domestically and internationally. Such behaviour contradicts the values we uphold and threatens the unity of Sierra Leone. We call upon all Sierra Leoneans to reject hate speech and embrace the principles of respectful and constructive political discourse.
“Standing in solidarity with the SLPP and APC, Fambul Tok-Sierra Leone supports the investigation and prosecution of individuals inciting violence, in accordance with Sierra Leonean law, ensuring the protection of the rights of all members and supporters of both parties.
“We urge our international partners to lend their support to the SLPP and APC’s efforts to ensure fair and thorough justice, critical in maintaining a just and peaceful society in Sierra Leone”.
The commitment of the SLPP and APC to monitor and address hate speech and violence has been widely seen as is commendable and necessary and many people are now looking forward to collaborative efforts with these parties, civil society organisations, and international partners to ensure a safe and respectful political environment.
