In the aftermath of the unsettling security breach on November 26 in Sierra Leone, the atmosphere is charged with tension. The proliferation of fake news, finger-pointing, messages of hate directed towards different tribes, and the exchange of claims and counterclaims have further fueled the already heightened state of suspicion. It is undeniably a challenging time for our nation.

In this critical moment, Sierra Eye emphasizes the urgent need for calm reasoning and a collective commitment to peace. The recent address by the President on the 27th resonated with the gravity of the situation, highlighting the importance of reconciliation. Indeed, we find ourselves at a crossroads where the echoes of a painful and bitter civil war from the 1990s serve as a haunting reminder of the cost in lives and the toll it took on all of us.

The current circumstances demand a pause for introspection. As a nation, we stand on the precipice of a choice that will shape our future. The spreading of misinformation and the cultivation of animosity only serve to deepen divides. Now is the time for leaders and citizens alike to rise above the tumult, to reflect, and to ask ourselves a critical question: Do we want to traverse the path of another civil war?

The answer to this question must resoundingly be a collective “NO.” We, as a people, cannot afford to revisit the horrors of the past. The scars of the civil war are still etched in our memories, a painful testament to the devastating consequences of discord. It is incumbent upon our leaders and each citizen to take a step back from the brink and engage in thoughtful reflection.

Sierra Eye unequivocally calls for unity, understanding, and a commitment to dialogue. We must resist the urge to settle political scores through divisive rhetoric and instead prioritize the well-being of our nation. Now is the time for a united front against discord, a time for constructive conversations that bridge gaps and foster national cohesion.

In the face of adversity, #SierraLeone has demonstrated resilience before, emerging from the shadows of conflict into a period of recovery and growth. Let us draw on that resilience once again and collectively pledge to do all in our power to ensure that our nation does not succumb to the devastating cycle of civil strife.

The path to lasting peace requires a collective effort, a commitment to dialogue, and an unwavering dedication to the principles that bind us together as one nation. Sierra Eye urges leaders, citizens, and all stakeholders to prioritize the preservation of peace, unity, and the well-being of Sierra Leone.

Together, let us forge a future that stands as a testament to our resilience, unity, and shared commitment to a peaceful and prosperous Sierra Leone.