By Sahrfoa Matturie
The National Commission for Democracy (NCD) has reactivated its Citizens’ Platform for Political Tolerance Programme in the Northern Region, reinforcing efforts to promote peaceful democratic engagement ahead of the country’s upcoming electoral cycle.
The reactivation meeting was held on Friday, 13 February 2026, at 20 Lady’s Mile in Makeni under the theme: “Governance and Peacebuilding in Sierra Leone: Reflecting on the Past, Present, and Future.” The three-hour engagement brought together representatives from media institutions, civil society organisations, religious leaders, women’s groups, youth actors, and various political parties.
Delivering the keynote address, NCD Commissioner in Makeni, Johanes Alieu Baba Kamara, underscored the urgency of revitalising civic consciousness—particularly among young people—as the nation gradually enters another electioneering period. He urged citizens to uphold democratic values and distance themselves from violence, political intolerance, and drug abuse.
He noted that the reactivation of the platform aligns with national calls for reflection and remembrance championed by President Julius Maada Bio, aimed at honouring the country’s civil war history and reinforcing collective responsibility in preserving the peace Sierra Leone currently enjoys.
Commissioner Kamara further highlighted Sierra Leone’s longstanding tradition of religious tolerance, stressing that interfaith collaboration remains critical to sustaining national cohesion and democratic stability. He encouraged participants to use the Citizens’ Platform as a space for constructive dialogue, civic engagement, and early conflict prevention at community level.
The absence of representatives from the All People’s Congress (APC) was noted during the engagement. Addressing questions from journalists, the Commissioner explained that he had been informed the party was conducting internal lower-level elections at the time of the meeting, accounting for its non-attendance.
The Citizens’ Platform for Political Tolerance Programme is designed to foster inclusive governance, deepen democratic participation, and mitigate potential tensions before, during, and after electoral processes. The NCD reaffirmed its commitment to working with political parties and key stakeholders across the Northern Region to ensure that peacebuilding remains central to governance and public discourse in Sierra Leone.
