By Prince J Musa in Kenema
The Chairman of the National Council for Civic Education and Democracy Kalilu Totangi has urged all Sierra Leoneans to remain peaceful before, during, and after the elections.
"Keeping peace in the country is one of our core mandates as council’’ said Totangi. The Chairman made this call at a two-day annual retreat held in Kenema on the 26th and 27th of January 2023.
Totangi explained that the commission will be looking at civic education and national cohesion with the aim of preventing conflict through the civic education subcommittee for elections. He noted that the purpose of the retreat is to look at their successes and challenges in the previous years, especially in 2022, and to map out strategies for the 2023 elections.
He said the retreat will enable them to deliberate on programme priorities that will enhance the commission in educating citizens on how to carry out the electioneering process without violence.
The Chairman explained that the council is working in tandem with National Youths Commission in putting together a youth manifesto, stating that they want to ensure young people understand the importance of peace. He added that they are focused on educating them against drug abuse, which can serve as a tool some politicians use to mislead them during elections.
He said that the commission will be actively engaged in the electoral process, noting that one of their pillars is to ensure that peace is sustained in order to attract development.
The Development Secretary at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development Peter Saw Kpakia said civic education is significant for national development, stating that it will help raise awareness amongst citizens, especially children about their rights and duties.
Kpakia noted that the recent violence executed by youth is due to the fact that most of them do not know their responsibilities; he emphasized the need for development communication which he said is necessary for ensuring inclusive participation in national development.
He commended the staff of NaCCED for their commitment to national cohesion.
The Presidential Governance Adviser at State House Dr. Emmanuel Gaima said the essence of civic education for a country is to help mold the character of children who will grow up to become useful citizens in the country.
He recalled the August 10 insurgence; saying that most of those involved were born during the 80s, stating that they were unfortunate not to have learned civic education in schools. Gaima said they do not know their rights and duties, he added that civic education helps people to be patriotic.
Gaima said that NaCCED should disseminate all government programmes to the citizens, especially those in rural areas. He recommended that it can be achieved through a proper communication system, which according to him will facilitate citizens’ participation in the governance system.
Copyright © 2023 Politico Online (03/02/23)
