By Davida Spaine-Solomon
Freetown, 15th July, 2026 – The Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), Hawa Sally Samai, has called on political leaders and stakeholders to ensure the full implementation of recent peace agreements, warning that sustainable national unity depends on turning commitments into concrete action.
Speaking on the topic: “The ECOWAS Summit and the Implications for Peace and National Cohesion,” Samai said continued dialogue, accountability, and collective responsibility are essential to preserving Sierra Leone’s peace. She was speaking during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s Weekly Press Conference, held at the Miatta Conference Centre, Freetown, 14th July 2026.
Samai said recent political engagements present an opportunity to strengthen relationships among political actors and citizens, while acknowledging concerns from some sections of society about the involvement of individuals linked to Sierra Leone’s conflict history.
She, however, stressed that the focus should now shift towards ensuring that agreements reached by political stakeholders are implemented effectively.
Samai emphasized that peacebuilding must go beyond the signing of agreements and translate into practical actions that improve trust and cooperation among citizens and institutions.
She stated that the ICPNC has started engaging political parties and other stakeholders to understand their views on the agreements and identify ways the Commission could support the implementation process.
According to Samai, the Commission’s role is to facilitate dialogue, encourage open discussions, and create platforms where concerns affecting national cohesion could be addressed peacefully, noting that peace is not the responsibility of government alone, but requires the involvement of political parties, civil society organizations, communities, security institutions, and citizens.
Samai highlighted the importance of Sierra Leone’s history, particularly the country’s civil war, as a reminder of the need to protect peace and prevent renewed divisions.
Referencing the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), she noted that several recommendations remained unimplemented, stating that according to assessments, about 61 percent of the TRC recommendations are still outstanding, covering areas such governance, reconciliation, social conditions, and national healing.
Samai said Sierra Leone must learn from its past and ensure that peace efforts create an inclusive society where citizens can participate in national discussions without fear or intimidation.
“Sierra Leone belongs to all of us,” she said, urging citizens and leaders to protect the country’s reputation as a peaceful nation.
She added that maintaining peace requires patience, compromise, respect for diverse views, and a shared commitment from all sectors of society.
Samai reaffirmed the ICPNC’s commitment to supporting reconciliation, dialogue, and initiatives aimed at strengthening national cohesion, describing Sierra Leone’s peacebuilding journey as an example of the importance of unity and democratic engagement.
