By Forum staff writer
Flagbearer aspirant of the opposition All People’s Congress, Dr. Richard Konteh, has raised concerns about the state of democracy in Sierra Leone while also outlining his vision for transparent leadership if given the opportunity to lead the country.
Dr. Konteh made the remarks during an interview on the Wake Up Sierra Leone programme on Africa Young Voices Media Empire television.
Speaking on issues surrounding party processes and national politics, Dr. Conteh admitted that recent internal elections were not flawless but said challenges were expected in any democratic process.
“The elections were not perfect. There were challenges, but that is why the party has its internal mechanisms which would now get into action,” he said.
He explained that internal structures within the APC exist to resolve disputes and address concerns raised by members. According to him, these systems are essential in maintaining unity and strengthening democratic practices within the party.
Dr. Conteh also used the platform to express concern over what he described as a shrinking democratic space in the country. He claimed that opposition voices are increasingly under pressure.
“The democratic space is shrinking by the day. The opposition is under attack. There is total state capture,” he stated during the interview.
Although he did not go into detailed examples, the flagbearer aspirant suggested that the political environment requires greater openness and fairness to ensure that democratic institutions function effectively.
Dr. Conteh further spoke about leadership accountability and how he would maintain direct engagement with citizens if he becomes president.
He promised that regular communication with the public would be a key part of his leadership style.
“I will guarantee that I will face the nation at least once a month in a live interview,” he said.
According to him, the interview sessions would allow citizens to ask questions and hear directly from the country’s leader on national issues.
He also emphasized the importance of independence in such engagements, noting that the moderator for the monthly interviews should not be a government staff member.
“The moderator will not be a staff of government, preferably a journalist,” he added.
Dr. Conteh said the approach would promote transparency and strengthen public trust in governance by allowing open dialogue between leaders and the people.
His comments come at a time when political discussions around leadership, governance and democratic space continue to dominate public debate in Sierra Leone.
As the APC prepares for its internal processes ahead of future elections, Dr. Conteh remains among several figures seeking to lead the party into the next phase of national politics.
