By a Concerned Citizen
Moisa Sallu Nallo Keikura
I am a businessman, not a politician. However, as a patriotic Sierra Leonean, I felt deeply saddened after watching a video circulating on social media in which a Sierra Leonean, reportedly living in the United States, used harsh and abusive language against the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone.
The video brought me to tears. It made me ask myself: What has the First Lady done to deserve such insults and public humiliation? Regardless of our political beliefs, no one should be subjected to hateful and degrading language.
As a nation, we must reject the culture of personal attacks and abusive speech against our leaders. Such behavior does not strengthen our democracy; instead, it promotes division, damages our national image, and distracts us from the important task of building our country.
We should remember that our words have consequences. As the saying goes, what goes around comes around. We must all be mindful of how we conduct ourselves, especially on social media, where messages can spread rapidly and influence many people.
Many people never expected President Bio to become President, yet today he has been elected to lead the country for a second term. Leadership ultimately rests in the hands of the people through the democratic process, and many people also believe that God has a role in guiding the destiny of nations.
If, in the future, the First Lady or any other qualified Sierra Leonean chooses to contest for the Presidency, that is a constitutional right. Every eligible citizen has the freedom to seek public office, and it is the people who will decide through the ballot box. Differences in leadership style or political opinion should never be an excuse for hatred or abuse.
I also commend the First Lady for responding with restraint despite the criticism directed at her. Choosing dignity over confrontation reflects composure and maturity.
I am reminded of the late President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, who often encouraged Sierra Leoneans to place the national interest above division. His message remains relevant today as we strive to build a more united and peaceful nation.
My appeal to all Sierra Leoneans is simple: let us move beyond bitterness and focus on the future. Let us engage in politics with respect, tolerance, and healthy debate rather than insults and hate speech. We may support different political parties, but we all share one homeland.
Together, let us work to promote peace, unity, development, and mutual respect. Sierra Leone belongs to all of us, and it is our collective responsibility to protect and build our beloved Mama Salone for future generations.