By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio has thanked the main opposition party the All People’s Congress (APC) for their continued support and commitment to peace in the country.
He made this statement on the 14th June 2024, during his National address on the agreement for National Unity in the country.
According to the President, he thanked the leadership of the APC and the SLPP for their continued support and commitment to peace in Sierra Leone, adding that he thanked the Diplomatic and Development Partners, who had wholeheartedly supported the pathway to peace and progress in our country.
He continued by urging the main opposition, the APC, to demonstrate leadership and, in clear conscience, speak out frankly to their supporters that they must embrace each other and ensure peace and stability in Sierra Leone.
He said his SLPP Government remained resolute in its commitment to promoting peace and stability in the country. He reiterated his call to their supporters to embrace peace, unity and progress in Sierra Leone.
He admitted that the journey towards a united and cohesive Sierra Leone is not just a vision; it is a shared mission that includes everyone. He added that their role as citizens is integral to this mission, and their contributions are deeply valued.
Our history, rich with diverse cultures, traditions, and experiences, is a testament to their strength. However, he said they are also aware of the challenges they have faced and continue to face challenges that have tested their unity and progress.
He added that it’s almost a year after the General Elections, and his Government remained focused on the critical phase of nation-building as the time for politicking is firmly behind them. He mentioned that Building Sierra Leone into a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous country requires their collective input.
He called on everyone as they’re eagerly await the Tripartite Committee’s Report, which will help build the framework for efforts to enhance institutional reform of their Election Management Bodies (EMBs) and subject their electoral laws to the much-needed review and amendments, he said he urged us all to embrace unity and shun divisive rhetoric, adding that they must strive to put Sierra Leone first above partisan politics. Peace is the cornerstone of progress, and a nation divided cannot prosper, he said.
