Post a comment The Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Kaminty, on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, engaged religious leaders and members of the media on a proposed Religious Tolerance Practice Policy aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence and respect for religious rights in Sierra Leone.
Speaking during the engagement, Minister Kaminty disclosed that the proposed policy will undergo broad-based consultations involving Muslim and Christian leaders, the media, and other key stakeholders. She explained that the consultative process is intended to ensure the development of a comprehensive and inclusive policy that could eventually be transformed into law.
The Minister acknowledged concerns already raised by members of the Muslim community, particularly regarding religious intolerance in some institutions. These concerns include reported restrictions on the wearing of hijab or niqab by Muslim women, as well as the denial of Muslims’ right to observe mandatory daily prayers in certain workplaces and institutions.
According to reports, these issues have persisted for many years without adequate resolution, prompting renewed calls for policy intervention. Members of the Muslim community have expressed optimism that the proposed Religious Tolerance Practice Policy will address these long-standing challenges and provide clear guidance for institutions nationwide.
Minister Kaminty reassured stakeholders that the government remains committed to fostering religious harmony and urged all parties to engage constructively throughout the consultation process to ensure the policy reflects the values of tolerance, inclusion, and mutual respect.
