Political parties’ primaries to elect leaders should be contested on competence and good standing—not on tribalism and tribal basis.
As the 2028 elections draw closer, I have been following the aspirants from the two main political parties—those that have long exchanged the baton for State House—criss-crossing the country to canvass and position themselves in the eyes and minds of would-be delegates.
I have read articles and listened to audios produced by party members promoting their candidates, presenting arguments as to why their choice would not only win the nomination but also secure victory in the 2028 elections.
Yet, I have also encountered audios and writings where individuals some of whom should know better—openly display tribalism, even questioning the citizenship of fellow Sierra Leoneans.
This is done to dissuade delegates who may share their tribal bias from voting for certain candidates.
Many Sierra Leoneans feign non-tribalism, citing cross-tribal marriages or friendships as proof. But when the stakes are high, especially during elections, they still aim to block other tribes from accessing power.
This hypocrisy is shamefully shameful and disgustingly disgusting particularly when it comes from the so-called educated elites.
I have always maintained: when it comes to divisive politics and tribalism, the most educated and the least educated often think alike.
Degrees and international exposure do not necessarily reform or cleanse rustic tribal ways of thinking.
From the candidates I have seen so far, there are varying degrees of qualifications, competence, and experience.
But all of them are Sierra Leoneans—pure and applied—who do not deserve discrimination based on ethnicity or religion.
None of their family lineages owns Sierra Leone more than the other.
No tribe is the landlord of this country while the rest are tenants.
Sierra Leone has enjoyed a stable democracy, with governments changing hands multiple times without major unrest.
That stability should translate into how we elect flag bearers—and eventually our President—by scrutinising candidates on qualifications, competence, experience, and records, not on tribe or appearance.
None of the aspirants deserves humiliation because of their origin.
None chose the tribe into which they were born.
If you cannot find anything positive to sell your candidate, be creative—but do not embark on a smear tribal campaign against someone you have lived alongside for decades.
What Sierra Leoneans truly need is affordable healthcare, good roads, security, clean water, stable electricity, quality education, sufficient food, and reliable internet.
These are the issues that affect all citizens equally, regardless of tribe or religion.
Let the debates focus on how candidates intend to address these perennial challenges.
Hardship and bad governance do not discriminate.
Tribalism has never developed any country.
Any politician who rises on tribal hate will fail to govern well for all.
What Sierra Leone needs now is unity and focus—not tribalism and hate.
I therefore admonish especially the educated elites and their lackeys: desist from spewing divisive messages.
Instead, channel your energy into promoting equality, peace, justice, and unity.
Party leaders must ensure a level playing field for all aspirants irrespective of their tribe or origin.
Only then can campaigns and elections be less bloody and more constructive.
As a regular, undiluted, and uncompromised advocate for justice and peace, I will continue to voice my views on unfolding issues.
And I emphasise once again: party leadership races should be about merit, not tribalism and tribal basis.
I rest my case.
