By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
Marking a historic step toward promoting peaceful elections and social stability, the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) on Thursday, November 6, 2025, facilitated the signing of a Peace Pledge by all chieftaincy candidates in Bakeh Loko Chiefdom, Port Loko District.
The event marked the first time in Sierra Leone’s history that candidates in a traditional leadership contest have formally committed themselves to peace through a binding agreement.
The signing ceremony, which took place under the supervision of the Resident Minister of the Northwest Region, Ambassador Umaru Bum Wurie, drew participation from key stakeholders, including Ambassador Francis Patterson, ICPNC Northwest Regional Coordinator; Charles M. Kallie, Senior District Officer (SDO) of Port Loko; Civil Society representatives, traditional authorities, district security sector members and chieftaincy aspirants from the Bakeh Loko Chiefdom.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Francis Patterson announced that the signing of the Peace Pledge represents a milestone in Sierra Leone’s commitment to conflict prevention and inclusive governance. He explained that the initiative aims to unite all aspirants around a shared commitment to peaceful conduct before, during and after the polls.
“While most candidates are peaceful, disturbances often come from their supporters,” Ambassador Francis Patterson said. “The Peace Pledge provides a clear framework of accountability to deter violence and encourage civility in the process.”
He explained that the Peace Pledge, co-signed by aspirants, district and regional authorities, the police and the ICPNC, establishes a foundation for accountability and fairness. “Political parties must distance themselves from any supporter who violates the pledge. This is a binding document designed to uphold peace and integrity in the chieftaincy process,” Ambassador Francis Patterson said.
Emmerson Kolo, representing the Port Loko District Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Forum, commended the ICPNC for introducing the Peace Pledge into the chieftaincy process, describing it as a, “historic breakthrough”, in Sierra Leone’s peacebuilding efforts.
He noted that while the country’s progress on the global peace index is commendable, such gains must be safeguarded through consistent commitment by institutions and individuals. “Peace is not just an event; it’s a daily responsibility. Every candidate, supporter and stakeholder must contribute to this process,” Emmerson Kolo said.
He cautioned that post-election periods often pose the highest risk of conflict and urged both winners and losers to act responsibly. “Winners must be inclusive and losers must seek redress peacefully,” he said, emphasizing that peace and development are inseparable “twins.”
Charles M. Kallie, Senior District Officer of Port Loko District said the signing of the Peace Pledge demonstrates the district’s commitment to maintaining peace and setting a national precedent for traditional elections.
He underscored that Port Loko must continue to be seen as a “district of peace,” warning that the administration would not tolerate any actions that could disrupt the process. He urged aspirants to channel grievances through the appropriate administrative mechanisms.
“The Peace Pledge will help reduce post-election petitions, which are time-consuming, costly and hinder development,” he stated. He linked political stability directly to improved governance, noting that past disputes and politicization had affected council revenues and services in health and education.
Delivering his address, Ambassador Umaru Bum Wurie, Resident Minister for the Northwest Region, described the signing as a defining moment in Sierra Leone’s democratic evolution. He said the Peace Pledge not only promotes unity and reconciliation but also strengthens confidence in local governance.
“This initiative reinforces the principle that leadership is a sacred trust. It should unite rather than divide communities,” he stated. He emphasized that Government remains committed to ensuring chieftaincy elections are free from political interference, a practice that has helped reduce disputes in recent years.
Ambassador Umaru Bum Wurie cautioned against intimidation and coercion, urging candidates to allow voters to make free and fair choices.
“The Paramount Chief is the president of the chiefdom,” he said. “Those elected must govern inclusively, treat opponents as partners and bring everyone together after the results are announced.”
He concluded by calling on chiefs, stakeholders and community members to uphold peace and reconciliation, stating that unity and mutual respect would consolidate local governance and strengthen national cohesion.
The Bakeh Loko Peace Pledge marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s pursuit of sustainable peace and inclusive democracy. With the involvement of local authorities, Civil Society and the ICPNC, the initiative sets a precedent for future chieftaincy and national elections demonstrating that lasting peace begins at the community level through accountability, respect and unity.
