President Julius Maada Bio has called for a national dialogue to devise “an effective and inclusive political system” for the betterment of the country.
In a nationwide broadcast to mark Independence Day, the president spoke about a system that is “democratic and less amenable to shocks, minimizes the boot prints of bad politicians, and ensures political representation and a voice for minorities and minority populations throughout Sierra Leone”. He noted that “a permanent and independent commission for peace and national cohesion will identify and resolve the triggers of conflict in the country”.
President Bio also highlighted some gains made by his government in ensuring and maintaining the peace and stability of the country like the repeal of part five of the 1965 Public Order Act which criminalizes defamation and libel and assured the nation of his government’s continued commitment to ensure press freedom in the country because “our objective is an open and democratic society where civil society thrives, free speech and civic participation are guaranteed, and the voices of citizens matter on all national issues”.
He also called for a humane and just Sierra Leone where justice and social protection of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged are assured while work continues to build a more inclusive and equal society in which children, girls, and women not only matter but are protected by law from sexual and gender-based violence and guaranteed equal access to opportunities and resources.
The president also talked about efforts made in improving on areas such as the environment and the need to ensure that the country’s natural resources are protected and used to the advantage of the country.
After independence from Britain in 1961, Sierra Leone has faced many development challenges including a devastating 11 year civil war which brought the country to its knees, an Ebola epidemic, and now the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite these challenges, Sierra Leoneans across the country and abroad commemorated the independence anniversary. Since coming to power three years ago this is the first anniversary to be celebrated on this scale with heads of state from across West Africa taking part.
The celebration was climaxed by the award of national honors to eminent Sierra Leoneans in various fields of life. The highest honor of Grand Commander of the Order of the Republic of Sierra Leone was conferred on Dr. Kadie Sesay, an academic and politician who served as a minister in the SLPP government of late President Ahmad Tejan Kabba. She was the running mate to candidate Julius Maada Bio in the unsuccessful 2012 elections.
Copyright © 2021 Politico Online 28/04/21)
