By Mackie M. Jalloh
In a revealing interview on Radio Democracy’s “Good Morning Salone” program, Mohamed Bangura, a Member of Parliament for the All People’s Congress (APC) representing Kerena District in northern Sierra Leone, dropped a political bombshell by announcing his intention to switch political parties in the near future. His declaration has sent ripples through the political landscape, particularly as he paired it with a scathing critique of the current state of affairs under President Julius Maada Bio’s administration.
Bangura, known for his forthrightness, made it clear that his decision to consider joining a new party is rooted in his dissatisfaction with the direction in which his current party is heading. “Political allegiance is not like religious faith,” Bangura remarked during the interview. “Politics is about the here and now, and if a political party no longer aligns with my goals and objectives, I have every right to seek change. I am not bound by blind loyalty to any party.”
Bangura’s comments underscore a growing sentiment among some politicians in Sierra Leone who feel that political parties should be flexible and responsive to the needs and aspirations of their members. He criticized the notion that politicians must remain eternally loyal to a single party, regardless of how that party evolves or whether it remains true to its original mission. His stance is a direct challenge to the traditional view of party loyalty in Sierra Leonean politics, where switching parties is often seen as a betrayal.
During the interview, Bangura did not shy away from addressing the broader issues plaguing the nation. He expressed deep concern over the deteriorating economic conditions in the country, describing how these challenges are impacting the everyday lives of citizens. “Just this morning, on my way to the studio, someone was at my gate asking for financial help to take her child to the hospital,” Bangura shared, illustrating the dire straits many Sierra Leoneans find themselves in. He pointed to the rising unemployment among young people and the exorbitant costs faced by business owners trying to get their goods out of the ports.
Furthermore, Bangura criticized the government’s failure to ensure the quality of building materials entering the country, linking the recent spate of building collapses to this oversight. He contrasted this with practices in Ghana, where materials are rigorously inspected at the port before being allowed onto the market. As a proactive step, Bangura announced his plan to push for an audit of building materials in Sierra Leone and to urge the Chairman of the Trade Committee to summon the Minister of Trade to address these pressing concerns.
Mohamed Bangura’s remarks not only signal potential changes in Sierra Leone’s political alignments but also highlight the urgent need for reforms in key areas affecting the nation’s economy and public safety. His willingness to break with tradition and possibly join a new party could set the stage for further political realignments as the country approaches future elections.
