Blyden Accuses PPRC of Uneven Enforcement

Political commentator and APC flagbearer aspirant Sylvia Olayinka Blyden has criticised the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC), accusing the body of inconsistency in handling hate speech-related matters, particularly those involving individuals linked to the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).

Blyden expressed disappointment with what she described as a shift in the Commission’s approach to political regulation and enforcement.

“I am quite disappointed with the PPRC. I am dismayed that the PPRC is so comfortable…” she stated.

She referenced the Commission’s 2024 action against political actor Kadiru Kai Kai, noting that swift regulatory measures were taken at the time, including public condemnation and referral for investigation. She described that response as a benchmark for enforcement.

However, Blyden argued that similar firmness has not been applied in more recent cases she believes involve individuals associated with the SLPP.

“The PPRC now has a bad name as if SLPP actors are untouchable,” she claimed.

She further alleged that statements attributed to SLPP-linked individuals have not attracted comparable regulatory responses, raising concerns about fairness and equal enforcement of political party laws.

Intensifying her criticism, Blyden added: “The PPRC has betrayed itself.”

According to her, inconsistency in enforcement could undermine public confidence in the Commission and weaken trust in the country’s political regulatory framework.

In a 2024 statement, the PPRC strongly condemned incendiary political speech, describing it as a violation of the Political Parties Act and calling for enforcement action where necessary.

Blyden concluded by stressing that political accountability must be applied evenly across all parties and actors to safeguard democratic trust and stability.