US Ambassador Says: “Democracy Is Not About Violence or Boycotts, But Dialogue”
By VOS Writer
The United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan David Hunt, has reaffirmed the importance of peaceful democratic engagement, stating that “democracy is not about violence and boycotting elections — it is about dialogue.”
Ambassador Hunt made this remark during a press conference at the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) office in Tonkolili, where he emphasized the role of inclusive political participation and open communication in strengthening Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions.
“Democracy thrives when people talk to each other, not when they walk away from the table,” he said.
His statement comes amid heightened political tension and calls for national reconciliation following disagreements between the ruling SLPP and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC).
Ambassador Hunt urged all political actors to engage constructively, respect the rule of law, and prioritize the will of the people over partisan interests.
The United States Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan David Hunt, has emphasized that democracy is a continuous process, not a fixed destination. Speaking during a press engagement at the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) office in Tonkolili, Ambassador Hunt said:
He referenced the United States itself as an example, acknowledging that even mature democracies like the U.S. face ongoing challenges and reforms. His remarks were part of a broader message promoting peaceful political engagement, dialogue, and institutional development.
“Even in the United States, we are still on that journey. Democracy requires participation, compromise, and constant improvement,” Ambassador Hunt added.
The U.S. diplomat’s statement comes at a time when Sierra Leone’s political landscape has experienced tensions, with opposition parties citing grievances over electoral and governance issues.
Ambassador Hunt urged all political stakeholders to embrace dialogue over division, and to understand that democracy demands patience, resilience, and shared responsibility.
US Ambassador Reiterates: “Democracy Is Not About Violence or Boycotts, But Dialogue”
