By: Samuel Karim
29th May 2025
As Sierra Leone approaches the 2028 Presidential Elections, the nation finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. The demand from citizens is becoming increasingly clear: Sierra Leone needs and deserves a mature, knowledgeable, and experienced leader particularly one who understands the weight of presidential responsibilities, economic transformation, and national governance.
The Statehouse of the Republic of Sierra Leone is not a training ground. It is not a place for apprenticeship or a political internship. Rather, it is the highest seat of leadership entrusted with steering the nation’s destiny through bold decisions, policy articulation, and strategic vision. Entrusting this vital institution to candidates who lack deep understanding of governance, economic development, and executive decision-making is a risk the country cannot afford.
Leadership Beyond Rhetoric
Mere political popularity, social media presence, or youthful charisma should never be the sole qualifications for the presidency. While youth engagement is essential in politics, leading a country demands more than just enthusiasm it requires the wisdom earned through experience, the foresight shaped by sound policy understanding, and the discipline to act in the national interest above all.
In recent years, Sierra Leone has faced complex challenges: economic stagnation, rising youth unemployment, health and education gaps, and regional inequalities. These issues demand strategic leadership anchored in realism, not trial and error. A president must not only inspire, but also implement through a functioning cabinet, institutional collaboration, and policy continuity.
Governance Requires Preparation
Effective governance is not learned on the job. It is cultivated through years of public service, policy engagement, community development, and institutional leadership. Sierra Leone deserves leaders who have built a track record of delivering results, managing crises, and working with diverse sectors to implement national priorities.
The future of this country should not be placed in the hands of untested individuals. Sierra Leone needs someone who understands how governance works someone who can skillfully navigate the constitutional framework, ensure cabinet coherence, and maintain international diplomatic respect.
Economic Transformation Demands Experience
Economic transformation will not happen overnight, and certainly not under an administration that is still learning the ropes. The next leader must be someone who can engage international development partners with authority, attract investment with credibility, and craft policies that promote inclusive growth and sustainable development. Sierra Leone must not be left behind in the regional and global economic race due to poor leadership decisions or inexperience at the top.
Conclusion: A Call to Responsibility
As we approach the 2028 elections, Sierra Leoneans especially the youth must critically assess the leadership qualities of those seeking the presidency. Political parties must prioritize competence and experience over sentiment. Civil society must raise awareness and hold leaders accountable. The media must elevate public discourse beyond popularity contests.
The presidency is not a ceremonial seat or a political experiment. It is the engine of national progress, and Sierra Leone can no longer afford leaders who are unprepared for the task.
The people of Sierra Leone deserve better. The country deserves a leader ready to serve from day one with wisdom, clarity, and commitment to national transformation.