WCC NEWS: Heads of churches in Sierra Leone express concern on the spate of violence

In a message about the current security situation in Sierra Leone, representatives of the Christian community urged the political chaos be addressed immediately, even as the nation tries to stop the spread of COVID-19. “We note with utter disappointment the increasing level of violence currently prevailing in the country including the riot at Pademba Road Correctional Centre and the outbreak of violence at Lunsar, Falaba, Foredugu and Tombo,” reads the message. “This is a cause for security concern for all peace loving Sierra Leoneans.” The country is threatened with hate speech that has flooded social media, the message continues. “Undoubtedly this is an irresponsible use of the social media,” the text reads. “Sad to say these incitements have led to the loss of human lives and burning down of both private and public properties in some parts of the country.” The level of lawlessness is appalling, the religious leaders note. “There is a growing national concern that this level of lawlessness is a threat to national security and political stability,” reads the text. “We are concerned that our beloved nation may once again degenerate into total chaos if we allow this circle of violence to continue unchecked.” The message unequivocally condemns all forms of violence. “We call on all our youths to resist being misled and used by politicians but rather channel their energies to the good of the country,” concludes the text. “We call on all Sierra Leoneans both at home and abroad to be patriotic and join the fight against the common enemy COVI19.” WCC member churches in Sierra Leone

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 350 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 550 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC acting general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Ioan Sauca, from the Orthodox Church in Romania. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches 150 route de Ferney Geneve 2 1211 Switzerland