By Stephen V. Lansana
In the wake of the recently concluded June 24 elections in Sierra Leone, the Fifty-Fifty Group has on Friday, June 30, 2023 expressed serious concern with the current trend of cyber-bullying targeted at female political leaders and heads of election observer missions.
The Activist Group implores the public to recognize that diverse views and opinions of the on-going political process could be expressed through constructive dialogue devoid of threats, bullying and personal attacks.
According to Fifty-Fifty Group, the aftermath of elections should be a time for reflection, dialogue, and democratic growth, adding that there must be respectful spaces to air out grievances which they encourage should be speedily addressed as required in a democracy.’
“Cyber bullying against women in leadership positions not only undermines their contributions but also has broader implications for the overall democratic process,” the Fifty-Fifty Group said in a statement Friday. “Such harmful behavior can deter women from participating in politics, limit their representation and deny society the benefit of diverse and inclusive governance.”
In response to this concerning issue, the 50/50 Group Sierra Leone urges all citizens of Sierra Leone to take the following actions:
Embrace Respectful Dialogue: The Group encouraged the populace to engage in respectful and constructive dialogue when discussing political matters online. “Disagreements are natural, but resorting to cyberbullying or personal attacks is unacceptable and counterproductive,” 50/50 added.
On Report Cyberbullying, 50/50 Group pointed out that Social media platforms and online forums must be spaces of positive engagement. “If you come across cyberbullying or any form of online harassment targeting female political leaders or election observers, it is your duty to promptly report it to the relevant authorities who in turn should swiftly take action.
30 June 2023,” they said:
Foster Inclusivity: Celebrate the contributions of women in politics and elections. Advocate for greater representation of women in leadership positions and support their participation in all aspects of governance.
Let us remember that a thriving democracy depends on the active participation and engagement of all citizens, regardless of gender. Together, we can foster an environment where women in leadership feel empowered, valued, and safe from online harassment.
We call on all Sierra Leoneans within and outside Sierra Leone to exhibit that level of tolerance, calm and respectful behavior that we are known and celebrated for. We need to come together as a nation to address these diverse challenges in order to build a peaceful Sierra Leone.