Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh has issued an apology to those offended by his recent statements as a public official, following a wave of backlash from religious leaders.

His comments, which implicated both Muslims and Christians in electricity theft, sparked significant outrage and have intensified existing religious tensions in the country.

“I want to say sorry to anyone who feels hurt by words I have said in my work as a public official,” Sengeh stated. “People may cut and slice my words to drive hate, but what they will never do is test my faith as a Christian and my love for my neighbor.”

The controversy began with Sengeh’s appearance on AYV TV, where he remarked that not even Jesus Christ could solve Sierra Leone’s numerous problems, a statement that many found disrespectful and inflammatory.

This was followed by a press conference at the Information Ministry, where Sengeh accused religious institutions, without providing substantial evidence, of contributing to the national electricity theft problem.

His comments have been widely criticized for demonstrating a lack of understanding of the country’s deeply-held religious values and for potentially deepening divisions within the nation. Religious leaders have condemned his statements, calling for greater sensitivity and respect from public officials.