By Forum staff writer
Veteran politician and senior member of the All People’s Congress APC Hon Ibrahim Ben Kargbo has raised critical questions about governance national unity and public communication while reflecting on the performance of the current administration in Sierra Leone. Speaking in remarks aired by AYV Media Ben Kargbo offered a balanced assessment of President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership while urging greater honesty and dialogue in national affairs.
According to Ben Kargbo, President Bio assumed office with what he described as a very impressive and people oriented manifesto. He noted that even members of the opposition acknowledged the strength of the document at the time and were willing to support its implementation believing it would deliver meaningful change for the country. However he questioned why despite these intentions many citizens continue to complain about persistent economic and social difficulties.
He stressed that the key issue now facing the nation is understanding what has gone wrong and why expected improvements have not fully translated into relief for ordinary people. He argued that such concerns should not be ignored but examined honestly and openly in the interest of national progress.
The veteran APC figure also stated that President Bio came to power with a clear sense of the development goals he intended to pursue. While acknowledging the efforts made by the current government Ben Kargbo said the APC remains confident that it will present a strong candidate capable of taking over leadership and advancing national development when the time comes. He described this as part of the normal democratic process rather than a personal attack on the president.
In a broader reflection on partisan politics Ben Kargbo compared public perceptions of former president Ernest Bai Koroma and President Bio. He observed that just as some members of the SLPP never accepted that Koroma performed well during his tenure some APC supporters will never acknowledge the achievements of the current SLPP administration. He described this mutual suspicion as unhealthy for national cohesion.
Ben Kargbo warned that persistent political mistrust undermines unity and development. He called for a national conference to address issues of unity nationality and shared purpose arguing that Sierra Leone needs an inclusive platform for honest dialogue beyond party lines.
While critical of certain aspects of governance Ben Kargbo rejected claims that the SLPP government has achieved nothing. He stated that it would be dishonest to deny that the current administration has recorded considerable achievements. However he emphasized that these achievements must be clearly communicated to the public to build trust and understanding.
Drawing from his experience in government he recalled that during the APC administration challenges were openly acknowledged. He cited the declaration of austerity measures as an example of honest leadership aimed at helping citizens understand the economic realities facing the country at the time.
Ben Kargbo concluded by stressing that honesty transparency and effective communication are essential to good governance. He maintained that acknowledging difficulties while engaging citizens truthfully is the most responsible way to lead especially during challenging periods. His comments have sparked renewed discussion on governance accountability political tolerance and the need for national unity in Sierra Leone.
