For decades, Sierra Leone’s political landscape has been shaped by two dominant forces—the All People’s Congress (APC) and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). These two political parties have alternated in power since independence in 1961, each promising progress and prosperity. Yet, despite their ideological differences, they share a common legacy of corruption, nepotism, and economic mismanagement.
As the 2028 elections approach, many Sierra Leoneans find themselves wrestling with a familiar dilemma: which of these two flawed giants is the lesser evil?
A Legacy of Broken Promises
The SLPP, founded in 1951, led the country to independence and positioned itself as a beacon of democratic leadership. The APC, emerging later, adopted a more socialist stance and sought to challenge SLPP’s dominance. Over the years, both parties have taken turns ruling the country, but their administrations have often been defined by similar failings—corrupt leadership, mismanaged resources, and policies that have done little to improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
The Corruption Curse
Corruption has remained a constant curse under both APC and SLPP rule. Leadership changes have done little to break the cycle of public fund embezzlement, shady deals, and abuse of power.
APC’s Corrupt Legacy: Under the APC, particularly during Siaka Stevens’ rule, corruption became institutionalized. The establishment of a one-party state in the 1970s allowed unchecked mismanagement, with national resources funnelled into private pockets. The lack of accountability meant government officials operated with impunity, leaving ordinary Sierra Leoneans to bear the brunt of economic decline.
SLPP’s Corrupt Governance: The SLPP has also struggled with integrity in governance. Accusations of nepotism and favouritism have plagued its administrations, with state resources often benefiting a small elite rather than the general populace.
Despite promises of reform, critics argue that the SLPP has simply refined old tactics rather than eliminating corruption altogether.
Governance by Nepotism
Both APC and SLPP have been guilty of nepotism, using government appointments to reward political allies and family members instead of prioritizing competence and national interest.
APC’s Pattern of Patronage: Under APC rule, state institutions have frequently been controlled by political loyalists rather than qualified professionals, leading to inefficiency in governance, weak oversight of public finances, and policies driven more by political survival than by national development.
SLPP’s Personalized Leadership: The SLPP has often been accused of making governance a family affair, prioritizing party loyalists over national unity. Critics argue that such has fuelled division, deepened ethnic politics, and weakened public confidence in state institutions.
Economic Mismanagement: A Shared Failure
Sierra Leone’s economic woes have persisted under both parties, with mismanagement and poor policy choices undermining growth and development.
APC’s Economic Downturn: During APC rule, the country faced severe economic crises due to poor fiscal policies, misallocation of resources, and unsustainable debts. Public services, including healthcare and education, suffered as funds were diverted to serve political elites rather than the nation.
SLPP’s Economic Struggles: The SLPP’s tenure has not fared much better. Unemployment remains high, inflation continues to erode purchasing power, and food insecurity is at alarming levels. While the government boasts of economic reforms, many Sierra Leoneans struggle daily to make ends meet, seeing little tangible benefit from these so-called improvements.
The People’s Dilemma
As the 2028 elections draw closer, Sierra Leoneans are left with a difficult choice. The APC and SLPP have, time and again, shown that they are more alike than different when it comes to governance failures. Many citizens feel trapped in a cycle where every election is merely a reshuffling of the same failed leadership.
Yet, the upcoming elections also present an opportunity. With growing civic awareness and increasing public demand for accountability, the electorate has the power to push for change. Whether through voting for reform-minded candidates, supporting alternative political movements, or holding leaders accountable beyond election day, Sierra Leoneans can shape a different future.
Beyond the Lesser Evil
The true challenge for Sierra Leone in 2028 is not just choosing between APC and SLPP—it is about demanding governance that prioritizes the people. The country’s progress depends on breaking free from the cycle of corruption, nepotism, and economic stagnation.
Whether the electorate will seize this moment remains to be seen; but one thing is clear: the era of blind loyalty to political parties is fading. The demand for leadership that truly serves Sierra Leone must take centre stage.
