ANNEX 2
Final Communique
We the members of the National Forum for Reconciliation, various youth groups and the Revolutionary United Front (RUF/SL), have met at a youth symposium for peace in Makeni from 23rd to 25th April 2001.
Cognizant of the significant role those youths can play in the peace process by establishing fruitful peer group dialogue involving the young men and women of the factions at war.
Aware of the disastrous consequences of the ten year civil conflict on the country as a whole and on the youths of Sierra Leone in particular irrespective of which faction they belong to.
Determined to bring pressure to bear on all the factions to ensure the cessation of hostilities and to lay the foundation of a sound and true democracy in Sierra Leone.
Do hereby resolve the following:
1. To urge all parties to the conflict to observe and respect the Abuja ceasefire agreement and condemn all violations of the said agreement
2. To encourage all parties to engage in a sustained and direct dialogue in the search for lasting peace
3. To support the creation of permanent structures that will ensure such sustained and direct contact.
4. To call for the involvement of local authorities and civil society organisations in the disarmament process.
5. To urge humanitarian and relief organisations to bring rapid assistance to children and adults in need in the RUF areas.
6. To sensitise the general public on the realities in the RUF controlled areas while correcting negative publicity against the conflict parties with particular reference to the RUF.
7. That the NFFR endeavour to sensitise Cabinet Ministers, Parliamentarians, the International Community and the Press on the deliberations of this symposium and especially on the concerns raised by the participants.
8. That the NFFR organise a similar peace symposium for the benefit of the Civil Defences Forces in Sierra Leone.
9. That a contact group between the NFFR and the RUF/SL be established to facilitate collaboration and communication in peace building.
Done on the 25th day of April 2001 at the Makeni Town Hall.
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