08/07/2024
BREAKING THE CHAINS: Sierra Leone Must Seize Its Political Future
Written by
Amb Alhaji K. Tarawally (Laj-K)
As the sun sets over Silicon Valley, the epicentre of global technological innovation, I often bid goodnight with a sense of tranquillity. However, my thoughts inevitably drift back to the pressing concerns of my homeland, Sierra Leone. This evening's reflection revolves around the political stagnation that has gripped our nation for far too long—a stagnation perpetuated by the unyielding dominance of two political parties over six decades.
For 63 years, the All People's Congress (APC) and the Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) have monopolised Sierra Leone's political landscape. Despite their prolonged governance, the tangible progress achieved remains questionable. We have been passive spectators in this enduring political drama, with the APC and SLPP consistently failing to deliver on their electoral promises. Despite our exposure, education and awareness, many pledge allegiance to these parties, even as they repeatedly fail us.
Daily hardships plague countless Sierra Leoneans, yet generational allegiances to these parties persist. Families struggle to provide for their next meal, yet these loyalties endure, often passed down from generation to generation.
Since gaining independence in 1961, we have all, at some point, contributed to this problem—myself included. Despite their lacklustre performance, whether as supporters or members of the UNPP, PDP, PMDC, or the NGC, we have all placed our electoral alliance bets on the SLPP or the APC. This is akin to mistaking salt for sugar—a seemingly minor error with widespread consequences.
It is time we recognise our mistakes and chart a corrective course for the sake of our countrymen and women. As we quickly approach the 2028 presidential election, we must unite to end the 63-year governance stranglehold of the SLPP and the APC. Do not tell me we can't achieve such a historic feat when the suffering masses are in the majority, capable of changing the course of political history—just as was done in Senegal.
The National Grand Coalition (NGC) has shown a commendable awareness of its past political mistakes. It has distanced itself from the SLPP alliance, choosing paths that genuinely serve the best interests of all suffering Sierra Leoneans. This realisation was as surprising as finding one's glasses perched atop one's head after a frantic search—it took us 63 years to recognise the obvious.
Consider this simple inquiry: Can the average Sierra Leonean afford a bag of rice today, or during the past administration of Ernest Bai Koroma (EBK), without facing financial strain?
Under the governance of these two parties, our economy has regressed to the point where "window shopping" has become a euphemism for the inability to afford necessities. We have grown accustomed to settling for less than we deserve, treating it almost as a national pastime.
The change we yearn for won't materialise through hope alone; it requires our daily effort and sacrifices. We cannot afford to wait for a "Someday" that may never arrive. It is imperative that we pass down the mantle of hope for political change to new, experienced generations emerging from a third political force, coupling it with decisive action.
Let us resolve to strive towards a brighter future and foster a more politically astute society. Our aspirations for Sierra Leone must be matched with the resolve to make informed and bold choices in our political landscape. 🌟
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