The aftermath of the 2023 general elections in Sierra Leone has sparked a national debate on leadership, integrity, and the future direction of the country. Both the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) have found themselves embroiled in a polemic battle, as the results and performance of their flag bearers have left many Sierra Leoneans feeling disappointed. With the nation facing a range of socioeconomic, political, and governance challenges, the call for new and credible leadership has become louder than ever. Central to this discourse is the argument that the defaulters of the 2023 elections should be disqualified from vying for the flag bearer position in the 2028 elections for both the SLPP and the APC. Their failure to inspire confidence and address the country’s pressing issues leaves them unfit to lead the nation forward.
In contrast, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, a former Minister of Justice and Anti-Corruption Commissioner, stands out as a beacon of hope for the APC and the nation at large. His impressive political capital, expertise, and unblemished record position him as the most viable candidate to redeem not only the APC but also Sierra Leone as a whole in the post-election landscape of 2028. The Defaulters of 2023: A History of Political Failure
In any democratic setting, elections serve as a critical yardstick for measuring the effectiveness and popularity of political leaders and their parties. The 2023 general elections in Sierra Leone exposed significant weaknesses within both the SLPP and APC, as neither party could fully satisfy the aspirations of the populace. The SLPP, under President Julius Maada Bio, was criticized for its failure to tackle corruption, economic stagnation, and the worsening standard of living for ordinary citizens. Meanwhile, the APC, having struggled with internal divisions and leadership challenges, also failed to present a convincing alternative to the SLPP’s rule.
Leaders who were at the forefront of the 2023 elections, either by directly contesting or playing key roles in their party’s campaigns, bear significant responsibility for these failures. For both parties, these individuals are seen as defaulters—political figures who could not deliver tangible change and who are thus unsuitable to lead again.
For the APC, the post-2018 electoral defeat has continued to haunt the party, and the 2023 results only deepened the cracks in its foundation. The inability of the APC to mount a robust opposition to the SLPP, coupled with its failure to capitalize on the growing dissatisfaction with Bio’s leadership, was a missed opportunity. The party’s leadership during the 2023 elections was marred by infighting, lack of strategy, and an absence of strong visionary leadership.
Similarly, the SLPP, while retaining power, did so at the cost of eroding its legitimacy. The post-election environment has been fraught with accusations of electoral malpractice, disregard for democratic processes, and an increasing sense of alienation among a significant portion of the electorate. The defaulters within the SLPP have been implicated in these shortcomings, making them unfit to lead the party into the 2028 elections.
A Call for Political Renewal: Why the Defaulters Should Be Discouraged
Political renewal is a necessity in Sierra Leone, particularly as the country stands on the precipice of further economic decline, social unrest, and governance challenges. The defaulters of the 2023 elections represent a political class that has failed to meet the expectations of the people. They are entrenched in the old ways of doing politics—ways that prioritize personal ambition, party loyalty, and tribal alliances over national development and unity.
Allowing these defaulters to contest for the flag bearer position in 2028 would be a continuation of the status quo, a perpetuation of the same failed leadership that has held Sierra Leone back. The country cannot afford another five years of governance characterized by incompetence, corruption, and a lack of vision. As such, it is imperative that these individuals be discouraged from vying for leadership positions within both the SLPP and APC. Sierra Leone needs fresh, credible leaders who can offer a new direction and restore public confidence in the political process.
In particular, the APC must undertake a thorough internal review and reform process, identifying the reasons for its failure to capitalize on the weaknesses of the SLPP in 2023. The party must acknowledge that some of its leaders, who were once seen as potential flag bearers, have lost their political relevance due to their involvement in the post-election polemics. These individuals have become synonymous with the party’s inability to present itself as a viable alternative, and they must be held accountable for their role in the APC’s stagnation.
Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara: A Leader with Political Capital
In the midst of this political uncertainty, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara (JFK) stands as a figure with both the credibility and political capital to lead the APC and Sierra Leone into a new era. His tenure as Minister of Justice and Anti-Corruption Commissioner demonstrated his commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. Unlike many of his political contemporaries, Kamara has remained relatively untainted by the scandals and controversies that have plagued Sierra Leonean politics. His clean record is a testament to his integrity and leadership, qualities that are sorely needed in the country’s political landscape.
Kamara’s political capital stems not only from his achievements in public office but also from his deep understanding of Sierra Leone’s legal and governance systems. He played a crucial role in implementing anti-corruption measures during his time as Commissioner, earning the respect of both local and international stakeholders. His ability to navigate complex political environments, coupled with his unwavering commitment to justice, positions him as the ideal candidate to lead the APC into the 2028 elections.
Moreover, Kamara’s leadership style is one of inclusivity and bridge-building. He has shown a willingness to engage with diverse political, social, and ethnic groups in Sierra Leone, making him a unifying figure in a country that has long been divided along tribal and political lines. This is particularly important in the post-2023 election environment, where political polarization and distrust in the political process are at an all-time high. Kamara’s ability to bring people together and foster dialogue is a critical asset that can help restore faith in Sierra Leone’s democracy.
The Road to Redemption: Kamara’s Path to 2028
The road to the 2028 elections offers an opportunity for the APC to redeem itself and regain the trust of the Sierra Leonean people. However, this can only happen if the party takes decisive steps to reform and present a new vision for the country. Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara is uniquely positioned to lead this charge.
First and foremost, Kamara must distance himself from the defaulters of the 2023 elections, both within the APC and beyond. He must make it clear that his candidacy represents a break from the past and a commitment to a new style of governance—one that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and national development. This will require Kamara to build a broad-based coalition of supporters, both within the APC and across the country, who share his vision for a better Sierra Leone.
Second, Kamara must articulate a clear policy platform that addresses the pressing issues facing the nation. These include tackling corruption, improving governance, promoting economic growth, and enhancing the delivery of basic services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Kamara’s experience as an anti-corruption crusader gives him a unique perspective on how to address these challenges, and he must leverage this experience to offer practical solutions that resonate with the electorate.
Additionally, Kamara must be willing to confront the internal divisions within the APC head-on. The party’s disunity has been one of its greatest weaknesses in recent elections, and Kamara must work to heal these divisions and foster a sense of cohesion and purpose within the party. This will require strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to party reform. By doing so, Kamara can position the APC as a united and formidable political force heading into the 2028 elections.
A National Vision Beyond 2028: JFK’s Potential for the Nation
Kamara’s candidacy for the APC’s flag bearer position is not just about redeeming the party—it is also about charting a new course for Sierra Leone as a whole. In a country that has been plagued by decades of political mismanagement, Kamara represents a fresh start. His leadership could herald a new era of accountability, governance, and progress.
Under Kamara’s leadership, Sierra Leone can begin to address the systemic issues that have long hindered its development. His anti-corruption credentials suggest that he would prioritize the establishment of strong institutions capable of holding leaders accountable, ensuring that public resources are used for the benefit of all Sierra Leoneans. His legal expertise positions him to champion judicial reforms that strengthen the rule of law and protect citizens’ rights.
Economically, Kamara understands the need for policies that promote sustainable development and economic diversification. Sierra Leone’s over -reliance on mining and extractive industries has left the economy vulnerable to external shocks, and Kamara recognizes the importance of diversifying the economy to create more resilient and sustainable growth. By promoting sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, Kamara can help generate jobs, reduce poverty, and improve the overall standard of living for Sierra Leoneans.
Kamara also understands the importance of education in national development. His vision for a revitalized education system focuses not just on free education, but on quality education. He believes in investing in teacher training, improving school infrastructure, and ensuring that students receive the resources they need to succeed. By prioritizing education, Kamara can help equip the next generation with the skills they need to drive Sierra Leone’s future development.
In terms of governance, Kamara’s leadership would represent a break from the politics of tribalism and patronage that have long dominated Sierra Leonean politics. Kamara’s commitment to inclusive governance—wherein appointments and development projects are allocated based on merit rather than tribal or political affiliations—would help foster national unity and reduce the divisions that have often undermined progress in Sierra Leone. By focusing on the needs of the entire nation, rather than just a select few, Kamara can help build a more cohesive and prosperous society.
As Sierra Leone prepares for the 2028 elections, the need for new and credible leadership is clearer than ever. The defaulters of the 2023 elections, who failed to deliver on their promises and address the country’s pressing challenges, should not be allowed to continue leading the nation down the same failed path. Instead, the country must look to leaders like Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, who have the political capital, integrity, and vision needed to redeem both the APC and Sierra Leone.
The Need for Change: A New Political Era
The call for political change in Sierra Leone is not just about individual leaders or parties—it is about redefining the way politics is done in the country. For far too long, Sierra Leonean politics has been characterized by corruption, nepotism, and a lack of accountability. This has not only hindered the country’s development but has also eroded public trust in the political system.
The defaulters from the 2023 polls, particularly within the SLPP and APC, are products of this broken system. Their continued dominance in Sierra Leonean politics would be a disservice to the nation and its people. These individuals have had their chance to lead and have failed to deliver the necessary reforms and progress. It is time for them to step aside and allow new leaders with fresh ideas and a genuine commitment to change to take the reins.
Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara represents this new breed of leadership. He has consistently demonstrated a commitment to public service, accountability, and the rule of law—values that are desperately needed in Sierra Leonean politics today. Unlike many of his political peers, Kamara has remained untainted by scandal and has earned a reputation for integrity and competence. His ability to deliver results, both as Minister of Justice and Anti-Corruption Commissioner, has shown that he has the skills and vision necessary to lead Sierra Leone into a brighter future.
Challenges Ahead: Navigating the Political Landscape
While Kamara’s candidacy for the 2028 flag bearer position is a promising development, it is not without its challenges. The political landscape in Sierra Leone is complex, and Kamara will need to navigate internal party dynamics, tribal loyalties, and vested interests if he is to succeed.
Within the APC, Kamara will need to build alliances and secure the support of key party stakeholders. This will require careful diplomacy and strategic thinking, as the party is currently fractured and divided. Kamara must work to unite the various factions within the APC and present a cohesive and unified front heading into the 2028 elections.
At the same time, Kamara must also engage with the broader electorate. Sierra Leoneans are disillusioned with the current state of politics, and many are looking for a leader who can offer genuine hope and change. Kamara’s challenge will be to convince voters that he is that leader. He will need to clearly articulate his vision for the country, demonstrate his commitment to reform, and build a broad-based coalition of supporters from across the political spectrum.
Additionally, Kamara will need to confront the legacy of past APC administrations. While the party has a loyal base of supporters, it is also associated with some of the very issues that have plagued Sierra Leonean politics, including corruption and mismanagement. Kamara will need to distance himself from the party’s past mistakes while still maintaining its core support base.
The 2028 Vision: A New Beginning for Sierra Leone
As the 2028 elections approach, Sierra Leone has an opportunity to turn the page on its troubled political past and embrace a new era of governance and development. Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara stands at the forefront of this potential transformation. His candidacy represents a break from the old guard and the defaulters of the 2023 polls, offering a fresh start for both the APC and the nation.
Kamara’s leadership could usher in much-needed reforms in key areas such as governance, corruption, education, and economic development. His commitment to transparency and accountability, combined with his deep understanding of Sierra Leone’s legal and political systems, makes him uniquely qualified to address the country’s most pressing challenges.
In the post-election landscape of 2028, Sierra Leone needs a leader who can unite the country, restore faith in its institutions, and set it on a path toward sustainable development. Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara is that leader. His political capital, unblemished record, and vision for the future make him the best candidate to lead the APC and Sierra Leone into a new era of progress and prosperity.
The 2023 elections in Sierra Leone have made one thing clear: the country cannot afford to continue on its current trajectory. The defaulters of the 2023 polls, both within the SLPP and APC, have failed to deliver the leadership that Sierra Leoneans need and deserve. It is time for these individuals to step aside and make way for a new generation of leaders who are committed to real change.
Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara represents the hope for a better future. His integrity, political capital, and vision for Sierra Leone make him the ideal candidate to lead the APC into the 2028 elections and beyond. With Kamara at the helm, Sierra Leone has the chance to overcome its past challenges and embark on a new path toward unity, development, and progress. The time for new leadership is now, and Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara is the right leader to take Sierra Leone into its next chapter.
