BY SAHR IBRAHIM KOMBA
232NEWS, FREETOWN
Sierra Leone Labour Congress (SLLC) has issued a plea to the government of Sierra Leone, urging them to prioritize peace and security in the country. The congress emphasized that the hard-earned peace of the nation is currently hanging on a precipice. The call was made during a gathering at the SLLC office in Freetown on August 15th, 2023.
Edward Y. Kamara, the Deputy Secretary General of Sierra Leone Labour Congress, emphasized the importance of peace in national development. He stated that a country can only progress when the peace and security of its citizens are guaranteed and protected. Kamara further highlighted that peace is a key principle for trade unionists, and the SLLC has played a significant role in peacebuilding within the country.
During the event, Alex Nkosi, the Coordinator for Human and Trade Union Rights, Migration Peace and Security, expressed gratitude to the SLLC for their active involvement in peacebuilding efforts. He acknowledged that their participation provides them with a platform to engage with authorities on the way forward. Nkosi emphasized the commitment of trade unions to empower workers and ensure their fair treatment. He encouraged the SLLC to promote peace within workplaces and called on the government to create an enabling environment for workers, as this would foster peace and security in Sierra Leone.
Nkosi also emphasized the importance of Convention 190 of the Violence and Harassment Convention, 2019, which aims to eliminate violence and harassment in the workplace. He stressed the need for a conducive working environment, as workers’ peace at work impacts their well-being at home. Nkosi further highlighted the issue of high living costs, which contribute to worker insecurity. He urged the government to address workers’ conditions and services.
In addition, Nkosi urged citizens not to allow politicians to exploit tribal or religious divisions in their pursuit of political power in Africa. He emphasized the damaging impact of corruption on society and called on trade unions to actively promote democracy in the country. Nkosi implored all citizens to take responsibility for ensuring peace prevails in Sierra Leone, as it is a vital aspect of national development. He warned against the increasing regional and tribalistic approaches to national issues, stressing the need to prioritize actions that promote peace and security.
The Vice President of SLLC highlighted the threats to democracy and called on the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with the opposition. He also urged the security sector to refrain from using excessive force against citizens.
Glorious Momodu, a speaker at the event, raised concerns about the challenges faced by traders in the hands of the government. He mentioned that traders have been prohibited from conducting business in the Central Business District, greatly impacting their livelihoods. Momodu called on the government to provide a specific area where traders can freely conduct their business. He also highlighted the issue of traders being incarcerated due to their inability to repay loans to banks.
Overall, the SLLC’s call for peace and security in Sierra Leone emphasizes the importance of these elements in the country’s development. The congress, along with various speakers, highlighted the need for an enabling environment for workers, the elimination of corruption, and the promotion of democracy to ensure a peaceful and secure future for Sierra Leone.
