Communication Gap Fuels Sierra Leone Political Tension, Says ICPNC

Communication Gap Fuels Sierra Leone Political Tension, Says ICPNC

The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has identified a significant deficiency in formal communication between the Government of Sierra Leone and the All People's Congress (APC), stressing the urgent need for structured dialogue to de-escalate current political tensions.

In a recent interview on AYV’s Wake Up Sierra Leone, ICPNC Executive Secretary Hawa Sally Samai explained that the absence of established, official communication channels frequently compels the opposition to disseminate concerns via social media rather than through formal institutional avenues. She noted that this pattern significantly amplifies misunderstandings regarding government policies and impedes the timely and effective resolution of critical national issues.

Samai stated, "We have identified a communication gap between the government and the main opposition, the APC. The APC frequently utilizes social media to articulate grievances instead of formally submitting these matters through established reporting procedures."

The ICPNC further maintains that effective political dispute resolution requires both the government and the opposition not only to engage in substantive discussions but also to commit to implementing concrete measures to address the concerns raised. The commission underscored that open, transparent, and consistent communication is foundational for cultivating trust among political stakeholders and strengthening democratic governance in Sierra Leone.

The body also formally called upon both parties to collaborate in establishing permanent mechanisms for regular, constructive dialogue. This proactive engagement is essential to ensure that disagreements are managed in a non-confrontational manner, thereby sustaining public confidence in political institutions.

The ICPNC asserts that fostering such continuous engagement will effectively mitigate tensions and enhance the overall efficacy and accountability of the national political process.