Sylvia Blyden Accuses PPRC of Inconsistency in Handling Hate Speech Cases
Osman Tolo Sesay 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.
Blyden expressed disappointment over what she described as a shift in the Commission’s approach to political regulation and enforcement.
“I am quite disappointed with the PPRC,” she said, adding that she was “dismayed” by its current posture.
She referenced the Commission’s 2024 action against political actor Kadiru Kai Kai, noting that regulatory steps taken at the time included public condemnation and referral for investigation. Blyden described that response as a benchmark for enforcement.
However, she argued that similar measures have not been applied in more recent cases involving individuals she claims are associated with the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).
“The PPRC now has a bad name, as if SLPP actors are untouchable,” she alleged.
Blyden further claimed that statements attributed to SLPP-linked individuals have not attracted comparable regulatory responses, raising concerns about fairness and equal enforcement of political party laws.
According to her, such perceived inconsistencies risk undermining public confidence in the Commission and weakening trust in the country’s political regulatory framework.
In a 2024 statement, the PPRC condemned incendiary political speech, describing it as a violation of the Political Parties Act and calling for enforcement action where necessary.
Blyden maintained that political accountability must be applied evenly across all parties and actors to safeguard democratic trust and stability.
She too should try to be consistent. It’s not about celebrating the misfortunes of her perceived antagonists but to stand for what is right regardless of who is involved.
What is ought to be done is never done