The Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has broken his silence on a controversial video that has gone viral on social media, in which an imam suggests that Muslims who accept Christmas wishes or food from Christians would face eternal damnation in Hell. The comments have sparked heated debate and raised concerns in a nation renowned for its peaceful interfaith coexistence.

Speaking at a gathering on Saturday at the Tabligh Mosque in Macdonald, Dr. Jalloh appealed for calm and understanding, urging religious leaders to emphasise messages of love, moderation, and unity. He reminded them of their critical role in fostering social harmony and promoting peaceful coexistence.

He addressed the issue from both a human and societal perspective, the Vice President pointed out that religious teachings-whether from the Quran or the Bible, must be aligned with the values of the community in which they are preached. He noted that Sierra Leone has long been celebrated globally for its tradition of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians.

“Sierra Leone is one of the most religiously tolerant nations in the world, and this is something we must continue to cherish and protect,” Dr. Juldeh Jalloh said. “Muslims and Christians in this country are not just neighbours; we are brothers and sisters who share in each other’s lives, celebrations, and even sorrows.”

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The Vice President went on to highlight the importance of mutual respect and cooperation between the two religious groups, noting that Sierra Leoneans have long supported each other across religious lines attending one another’s ceremonies, mourning together in times of loss, and celebrating life’s milestones as one united people.

Dr. Juldeh Jalloh also stressed the need for humility among religious leaders, urging them to recognise that no one has a monopoly on knowledge or interpretation of sacred texts. He encouraged ongoing dialogue, learning, and moderation, especially when addressing sensitive religious topics that could potentially disrupt the nation’s social fabric.

“Leadership, particularly religious leadership, must set an example by embodying patience, wisdom, and respect,” he said.

The Vice President concluded by calling  on all religious leaders to continue advocating for messages of peace, unity, and tolerance. He reiterated that safeguarding Sierra Leone’s long-standing tradition of religious harmony is a shared responsibility for all, urging both leaders and citizens alike to work together in preserving the country’s unity.

“Sierra Leone’s strength lies in its diversity and its ability to remain united despite our differences,” Dr. Juldeh Jalloh concluded. “Let us continue to uphold and protect this tradition of peace and tolerance, for it is the foundation of our nation.”