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The Ministry of Social Welfare has convened a second dialogue and engagement meeting as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard the long-standing coexistence and peace between Christians and Muslims in Sierra Leone.
The meeting brought together religious leaders and community representatives to address concerns arising from these statements, which were widely viewed as unfortunate and capable of undermining national harmony.
Participants reflected on the country’s history of religious tolerance, emphasising that despite belonging to different faiths and traditions, Sierra Leoneans have always lived, worked, married, and celebrated together in peace, with a shared commitment to return home safely and happily as one people.
Speaking during the engagement, the President of the Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL), Reverend Henry Abioseh Samuels, reaffirmed that religious tolerance is deeply rooted in the nation’s identity.
He noted that families across the country often include both Christians and Muslims, a reality that has strengthened unity rather than division.
Reverend Samuels emphasised that religion should never be used as a tool for division, reminding participants that forgiveness, dialogue, and mutual respect are fundamental teachings shared by all faiths.
He commended the Ministry for providing an open forum to address grievances and called on the public and the media to continue promoting messages that foster peace and national cohesion.
On behalf of the Inter-Religious Council, Sheikh Ibrahim Barrie affirmed the council’s unwavering commitment to sustained dialogue as the cornerstone of peaceful coexistence.
He noted that continuous engagement among faith leaders remains vital to addressing misunderstandings, promoting mutual respect, and safeguarding the nation’s long-standing harmony. He reaffirmed that unity across religious lines is essential for national stability and social cohesion.
Sheikh Abdulai Bah offered an unequivocal apology to the nation for any statements that may have caused offence or misunderstanding. He stressed that they were unintentional and did not reflect his lifelong message of peace, unity, and respect, while reaffirming his commitment to fostering harmony and strengthening coexistence among all communities.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Melrose Karminty reaffirmed the government’s zero tolerance for hate speech and religious intolerance. She stressed that while the Constitution guarantees freedom of worship, it does not permit words or actions that create division or threaten peace.
She concluded by disclosing plans to strengthen policy frameworks, legislation, and public awareness campaigns on religious tolerance, calling on all Sierra Leoneans to jealously guard the nation’s hard-won peace and continue to project unity and harmony as a shining example to the world.
