By William Alpha
Sierra Leone has a history of election violence, and the country’s state institutions have played a vital role in maintaining peace and security during elections. The country experienced a brutal civil war from 1991 to 2002, characterized by widespread violence, human rights abuses, and political instability. Following the end of the war, Sierra Leone has made significant progress in consolidating its democracy, but election violence remains a concern.
Many types of violence include physical assault, verbal abuse, and emotional manipulation. It may be carried out of a need for control, vengeance, or to vent frustration, rage, or fear. Mental illness, substance misuse, a lack of social support, and a lack of resources can all contribute to violence.
Recent property destruction, injury, and burning can be interpreted as protest or rebellion against political opponents, oppressive governmental forces, or imagined enemies. But using violence to vent discontent or advance political or social objectives is frequently unproductive because it can result in more hurt, fatalities, numerous arrests, and destruction of infrastructure and communities.
However, there are more effective nonviolent protest methods. The civil rights movement in the United States, the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa, the pro-democracy movement in Myanmar, as well as casting your vote on election day for the party of your choice are just a few examples of how nonviolent forms of protest and civil disobedience have successfully brought about social and political change in many parts of the world. These movements depended on nonviolent protests like marches, boycotts, voting in large numbers, and sit-ins to spread awareness and pressure decision-makers to address issues.
The 2018 presidential election in Sierra Leone was marked by violence and intimidation, with clashes between political party supporters and security forces reported in several parts of the country. The National Electoral Commission (NEC), now the Election Commission Sierra Leone (ECSL), and the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) played a critical role in maintaining peace and security during the previous election.
Election violence has been reported nationwide again as we approach the next election in 2023, with Pujehun, Bonthe, Falaba, and, most recently, Kono taking center stage. It will affect our nation’s stability and growth if not resolved immediately. Therefore, it is imperative to take action to stop it from happening. As Sierra Leone prepares for elections in June 2023, here are several strategies to reduce election violence:
1. Strengthen the rule of law: The government should ensure that the rule of law is upheld and that perpetrators of violence are brought to justice. This will serve as a deterrent to others considering engaging in election violence.
2. Increase voter education: Voter education campaigns should be intensified to ensure citizens know their rights and responsibilities during the electoral process. This can help to prevent misunderstandings that can lead to violence. Engaging credible civil society organizations could be a drive in the right direction.
3. Promote peaceful dialogue: Political parties and candidates should be encouraged to engage in peaceful dialogue and avoid using inflammatory language that can incite violence. The media can also promote peaceful dialogue by providing a platform for political actors to engage in constructive debates.
4. Ensure security: The government should ensure adequate security during the electoral process to prevent violence. This can involve deploying security personnel to polling stations and other strategic locations.
5. Encourage international observers: International observers should be invited to monitor the elections. Their presence can deter those planning to engage in violence and provide an independent assessment of the electoral process.
6. Foster a culture of tolerance: It is crucial to foster a culture of tolerance in Sierra Leone. This can be achieved through education and awareness-raising campaigns that promote respect for diversity and peaceful coexistence.
Overall, a concerted effort from all parties involved is required to stop electoral violence in communities throughout Sierra Leone. By doing this, the People will actively take steps to ensure that future elections are free and fair in cooperation with governmental actors.