Written by Joseph S. Sherman, Editor-in-Chief, The New Rising Sun, USA
Thursday, 09 April 2009
After reading the Press release of the SLPP of April 9, 2009 edition of The Patriotic Vanguard, captioned “Partiality and Unprofessional Conduct of the Inspector General,” signed by the newly elected Vice Chairman, Dr Kadi Sesay, it begs the question as to what moral basis and professional conduct is she making such frivolous statements
The IG, Mr. Brima Acha Kamara once served the SLPP government in which so many atrocities like rape, mutilation, and lynching, burning alive and killing of journalists were committed. Where was Dr. Kadi Sesay in condemning these atrocities? A member of the then SLPP who in parliament master-minded the beating and killing in cold blood of journalist Harry Yansaneh, did you question the government in which you serve as minister (SLPP) as to why justice was denied to the poor family of the victim?
Rationality and moral integrity is what is required of every so-called intellectual or educated person, devoid of these virtues you are a disgrace to intellectualism and ultimately and unpatriotic to your country. In spite of our individual differences politically, we are bound as intellectuals to be the moral conscience of society and to ensure that the underprivileged are treated with respect and dignity but if we use our intellectualism to the detriment of society posterity will never forgive us.
The recent communiqué signed by the two political parties (APC and SLPP) to show restrain and conduct themselves accordingly is a welcoming move but condemning the IG investigations of the rape allegations is instigating partisans of the SLPP to delve into activities that might bring chaos and confusion into the country. If you are not politically mature, then relinquish the vice chairmanship to a well-seasoned politician, who understands the rudiments of modern day politics.
I appraise the politics of tolerance which President Ernest B. Koroma is practicing which was not common in your former SLPP government. Political tolerance is the oil of democratic politics. Learning to put up with one’s political enemies is essential to effective democratic government and more important in Sierra Leone at this time which is undergoing the transition from relatively self-conceited regime to a more democratic regime. Therefore, with the present trend of events in the country, harmony, peace and development of people should be our utmost concern rather than igniting and instigating the people into chaos and anarchy.
Peaceful co-existence is an active and positive attitude, inspired by the recognition of respect for the rights and freedom of others. It means that concern for others must prevail over callousness and contempt, and that an effort to know the other takes the place of blind prejudice and discrimination. More than a moral virtue, it is a reasoned exercise through which we can define together through dialogue, exchanges and acceptance of differences, the value we wish to base our existence.
In the spirit of unity and reconciliation, let us avoid inflaming a situation which is already volatile; let us try to be always open to others, in heart mind. Let us put into action what we have learnt for the good of our country and let us put into action what we preach which will help us to build a safer and more peaceful Sierra Leone towards which all aspire
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