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[6 August 2007] - There has been increasing concern over the misuse of children in election campaigns in Sierra Leone. Defence for Children International Sierra Leone (DCI – SL) has been monitoring the country’s upcoming election campaigns including sensitisation meetings, rallies and media activities of political parties nationwide ahead of the 11 August elections and they have become greatly concerned about the misuse of children in the entire process. No political party has ever exclusively engaged children in obtaining their concerns and needs particularly in relation to education, health and protection issues. In the current situation however, children are often mobilised to fill numbers in street rallies and meetings at community level. The Constitution of Sierra Leone written in 1991 includes voting rights given to Sierra Leoneans of 18 years and above. Those below 18 years as stated in the Child Rights Act 2007 are classed as children. Political Parties, Civil Society, Community Leaders and Parents should therefore ensure that children stay home and should not be seen in political rallies with or without party T-shirts and emblems, say DCI. DCI – SL has observed that political rallies foster an environment in which children are encouraged to take alcohol and drugs, leading to possible involvement in violent activities that are inimical to their health and social wellbeing. The above issues may lead children into police cells and prisons that are against their best interests. DCI – SL therefore implores Political parties, the National Electoral Commission (NEC), the Political Parties Registration Commission (PPRC), Civil Society, and Donors of the Electoral Process, Community Leaders and Parents to react strongly against children’s participation in political rallies. DCI – SL encourages adults to vote without violence so that children who are not supposed to be part of the process do not suffer from its effects, as has been the case in the past. DCI – SL hopes that Sierra Leoneans will choose a leader that will be committed to the advancement of the rights of children in Sierra Leone. Further information