Sierra Leone’s next general elections are drawing near—less than 60 days away. A question lingers in my mind: can citizens rise above partisanship and vote for national progress?
Over the past five years, we have been engaged in a tug-of-war between two titanic political factions: the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the All People’s Congress (APC). The SLPP administration has been grappling with an ongoing economic crisis, resulting in diminished public trust in the government’s capacity to lead and restore economic growth. Other pressing issues include gender equity and protection, as well as the lack of opportunities for young individuals without political connections.
On the other hand, the APC, which is seeking to return to the helm of national governance, does not present a guaranteed alternative for progress. During their time in power, corruption and misuse of public funds were rampant. As they assemble now seeking re-election, the familiar faces and names fail to inspire the younger generation or restore their hope that the APC has reformed and is prepared to bring progress. Furthermore, the minimal engagement between the APC and the general public exposes a gap between the party’s interests and the issues that citizens prioritize.
Therefore, on June 24, we will head to the polls, trapped between a binary choice of less-than-ideal options. The question then arises: how do we navigate our course towards victory?
The barriers to progress continue to include:
The Weight of Economic Instability and Dwindling Confidence
By promising to confront the nation’s crippling economic obstacles, improve human capital through education, and declare war on corruption, the SLPP ascended to power. Regrettably, their tenure has witnessed a surge in economic distress, with soaring inflation (a phenomenon they attribute to the Russia-Ukraine War and the APC), unemployment, and unchecked spending. Overseas trips have multiplied due to the rebranding initiative undertaken. This grim reality has shrouded dreams of economic ascent. As public faith in the nation’s economic future dwindles amidst an evident lack of dialogue between the government and its citizens, the administration’s leadership acumen is increasingly scrutinized.
Persisting Gender Inequality
Despite the SLPP government’s professed commitment to gender inclusivity, their efforts regularly fall short. Although the current administration has made more significant strides towards gender inclusion than any previous government in Sierra Leone’s history, women remain predominantly marginalized and subjected to various discriminatory practices. This gap between governmental promises and the lived experiences of citizens continues to sow seeds of deep, though often unspoken, dissatisfaction.
The Rise of Elitism
Under the SLPP regime, the emerging generation is increasingly disturbed by the advent of an “elitist approach”. This trend consolidates power among a youthful minority with political connections, often to the detriment of deserving young individuals without political backing. This lack of equal opportunities stifles national growth and exacerbates youth alienation.
So, how do we strive for a brighter future?
Voting for National Progress
As the elections draw near, our focus when casting our votes must be national development. Candidates should be assessed based on their competence, integrity, and dedication to the nation. We need to prioritize leaders who demonstrate a genuine passion for improving citizens’ lives and who have an unblemished record of ethical decision-making.
Nurturing a Diverse Parliament
Effective governance and robust opposition necessitate a diverse parliament. This parliament should be a melting pot of representatives from various backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, and age groups, ensuring a comprehensive and representative approach to tackling the nation’s challenges. This diversity fosters an inclusive and democratic society, assuring that all voices contribute to the shaping of national policies. A parliament reflecting our nation’s diversity promotes unity and guarantees that every voice is heard and represented.
Enlightened Voting
Enlightened voting is the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy. To vote responsibly, citizens need to familiarize themselves with the candidates, their policies, and their track records. Relying solely on political rhetoric or party loyalties is insufficient. We must critically analyze each candidate’s stance on issues, their integrity, and their capacity to fulfil their promises. By becoming informed voters, we can make choices that align with our vision for a prosperous and equitable nation. This necessitates an examination of their track records, credibility, and contributions to nation-building, regardless of their scale.
Promote Grassroots Involvement and Civic Participation
Significant change begins at the grassroots level. Active participation in community-building is crucial, and entrusting this involvement solely to politicians could have adverse consequences. Civic activities such as attending town hall meetings, voicing concerns, and actively participating in local initiatives empower individuals to influence policy decisions. By actively participating in the democratic process, we can hold our elected officials accountable and ensure our voices echo beyond election day.
In conclusion, citizens must rise above partisanship to steer Sierra Leone in the right direction—towards progress. Vote for national development, and consider the competence and integrity of the candidates. Who can pave the way for progress and positive change in Sierra Leone? Vote for progress and together, we can tap into the power of our collective voices and strive for a brighter future for our beloved nation.