By Abdul Rahman Bah
The Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, has made a strong national appeal for religious tolerance, unity and responsible communication, warning that rising misinformation, misinterpretation of public statements and divisive rhetoric could threaten Sierra Leone’s long-standing peace and social stability.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education weekly press briefing held at the Miatta Conference Center in Freetown, the Minister emphasized that Sierra Leone’s strength lies in its diversity, where Christians, Muslims and other faith communities have lived side by side in relative harmony for decades.
She explained that religious tolerance is not only a moral principle, but also a practical requirement for national survival, stressing that when communities begin to divide along religious lines, it weakens trust, destabilizes institutions and slows down development progress.
The Minister reflected on earlier community engagements, noting that in several discussions she has participated in, a consistent message has been the need for citizens to embrace tolerance, patience and understanding in addressing national issues.
According to her, one of the biggest challenges facing modern governance is the speed at which information spreads, often without proper verification, leading to misunderstanding of government intentions and unnecessary public tension.
She warned that when statements are taken out of context or amplified without clarity, they can create confusion, especially on sensitive issues involving governance, policy consultation and community regulation.
Melrose Karminty stressed that government decisions are often the result of long consultative processes involving multiple stakeholders, and therefore should not be judged based on incomplete or premature interpretations.
She further clarified that ongoing policy discussions in government are part of structured consultations, not final decisions, and urged citizens to be patient as institutions complete the necessary legal and administrative steps.
A key part of her address focused on the growing concern of extremism and divisive narratives in public discourse, which she said must be actively discouraged at all levels of society.
The Minister warned that any rhetoric that promotes hatred, religious hostility or social fragmentation has the potential to undermine national cohesion and distract from development priorities.
She reaffirmed that Sierra Leone remains a secular state where religious freedom is guaranteed, but that freedom must always be exercised responsibly and within the boundaries of law, respect and peaceful coexistence.
Melrose Karminty explained that government’s role is to ensure order, protect citizens and maintain harmony among different groups, not to interfere in religious beliefs or practices.
She noted that regulatory frameworks exist to ensure that institutions, including religious bodies, operate transparently and in accordance with national guidelines designed to safeguard peace and accountability.
According to her, these systems often involve consultations with recognized councils and oversight bodies, ensuring that decisions are made through due process rather than unilateral actions.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of responsible media reporting, urging journalists and commentators to verify information before publication in order to avoid spreading misinformation that could inflame public sentiment.
She stressed that the media plays a critical role in shaping national dialogue and therefore carries a responsibility to promote accuracy, balance and constructive engagement.
Melrose Karminty further emphasized that inclusive governance remains a cornerstone of the current administration’s approach, with continuous efforts to ensure that all religious and social groups are engaged in national development processes.
She said inclusivity is not just about representation but about ensuring that every citizen feels a sense of belonging and ownership in national decisions and policies.
The Minister urged citizens to reject any attempts to use religion as a tool for division or political manipulation, warning that such practices have historically led to instability in other countries.
She called on traditional leaders, religious authorities, civil society organizations and community stakeholders to work together in promoting messages of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.
According to her, national development can only be sustained in an environment where trust exists between citizens and where differences are managed through dialogue rather than conflict.
Melrose Karminty concluded by reaffirming government’s commitment to strengthening peacebuilding efforts, promoting interfaith harmony and ensuring that all Sierra Leoneans continue to live together in dignity and respect.
“Religious tolerance is the foundation of peace, and without peace, there can be no meaningful development,” she stated.