One of the most pressing issues in Sierra Leone is political vengeance—a deeply ingrained practice that has persisted throughout the nation’s history. This cycle of retribution between opposing political factions has not only divided the nation but also hindered its development and progress. It is high time for Sierra Leone to break this cycle and embrace a future built on unity, reconciliation, and collective progress.
To understand why political vengeance is so deeply entrenched in Sierra Leone, it is important to consider the historical context. Since gaining independence in 1961, the country has been dominated by two major political parties—the All People’s Congress (APC) and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). These parties have alternated power over the decades, but their transitions have rarely been smooth. Political victories are often followed by purges, retribution, and marginalization of the defeated party. Leaders of the losing side are frequently targeted, their supporters ostracized, and their access to government resources and opportunities severely restricted.
One of the most infamous examples of political vengeance in Sierra Leone was the aftermath of the 1967 elections. The APC, led by Siaka Stevens, won the election, but the SLPP government, unwilling to concede defeat, staged a military coup. This set off a series of events that saw Stevens eventually return to power, but not without a deepening of political divisions. Stevens’ long rule was marked by authoritarianism, during which he used political vengeance to consolidate his power, often targeting opponents and former allies alike. This cycle of revenge did not end with Stevens’ departure, as successive governments continued to practice retribution against political adversaries.
Even in recent times, political vengeance has remained a potent force. The 2018 election, which saw the SLPP’s Julius Maada Bio defeat the APC’s Samura Kamara, was followed by accusations of political retaliation, with APC supporters alleging that they were being unfairly targeted in government crackdowns. This tit-for-tat cycle between the two dominant parties has bred a political culture of mistrust and hostility, where the losers of an election live in fear of being persecuted by the winners. This culture is not only unhealthy for the nation’s democracy but also detrimental to its development.
Political vengeance has far-reaching consequences that go beyond individual reprisals. It undermines the very foundation of democracy by discouraging open political competition and debate.
In a system where political actors fear retribution, the incentive to participate in politics becomes diminished particularly for those who hold dissenting views. This stifles political pluralism and discourages the emergence of new political ideas and leaders.
Furthermore, political vengeance exacerbates divisions within society. When political parties and their supporters are targeted for retribution, it fosters an environment of hostility and suspicion. Instead of working together for the common good, political factions become entrenched in their opposition to one another, making it difficult to forge meaningful consensus on national issues. This division extends to the populace, where political allegiances often determine access to resources and opportunities. Those who support the losing party may find themselves excluded from jobs, education, and other benefits, deepening social and economic inequalities.
Economically, political vengeance also takes a toll. Resources that could be used for development projects, healthcare, education, and infrastructure are instead diverted toward political machinations, investigations, and punitive actions against opponents. Additionally, the instability caused by political revenge can deter foreign investors, who are wary of putting their money into a country where the political climate is unpredictable. In a nation like Sierra Leone, which is still recovering from years of civil conflict and economic struggles, this is a cost the country simply cannot afford.
Finally, political vengeance perpetuates a cycle of violence. History has shown that when political grievances are not resolved through peaceful means, they can lead to conflict. The civil war that ravaged Sierra Leone from 1991 to 2002 was partly fuelled by political marginalization and disenfranchisement. If the cycle of political vengeance is not broken, there is a risk that unresolved political tensions could once again boil over into violence, setting back the country’s hard-won peace and progress.
In light of the damaging effects of political vengeance, it is clear that Sierra Leone needs a new path forward—one based on national unity, reconciliation, and the common good. The politics of revenge must be replaced by a politics of cooperation, where a leader from all sides work together to address the country’s pressing challenges. This will require a shift in both political culture and leadership.
The responsibility for ending political vengeance starts at the top. Sierra Leone’s political leaders, particularly those from the APC and SLPP, must set aside their historical animosities and lead by example. This means publicly committing to a politics of reconciliation, where the focus is on building a better future for all Sierra Leoneans, rather than settling scores from the past. Leaders must refrain from using state institutions as tools of political retribution, and instead, work to strengthen these institutions so that they serve all citizens equally, regardless of political affiliation.
In practice, this could involve creating cross-party commissions or working groups to address national issues such as economic development, education, and healthcare. By working together on these issues, leaders from opposing parties can demonstrate that they are willing to put the country’s interests above their own political agendas. This will not only help to heal divisions but also build trust among the electorate.
Ending political vengeance requires more than just good intentions—it requires institutional reform. Sierra Leone’s institutions, including its judiciary, police, and civil service, must be strengthened to operate independently of political influence. Too often, these institutions have been co-opted by ruling parties to carry out their political vendettas. Reforming these institutions so that they are impartial and accountable to the people is critical to ending the cycle of political retribution.
One way to achieve this is through the establishment of independent oversight bodies that can monitor the actions of government officials and ensure that they are not abusing their power for political purposes. Strengthening the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to act independently of political interference is also essential in this regard. By ensuring that institutions are fair and impartial, Sierra Leone can build a political system where everyone is held to the same standard, regardless of their party affiliation.
To move beyond the politics of vengeance, Sierra Leone must also engage in a process of national reconciliation and dialogue. This involves acknowledging the wrongs of the past and working to heal the wounds that have divided the country. A national truth and reconciliation commission, similar to the one established after the civil war, could be re-initiated to address political grievances that have emerged since then. This commission could provide a platform for political actors and ordinary citizens alike to air their grievances, seek justice, and find common ground.
Moreover, dialogue between political parties should be an ongoing process, not just something that happens during election seasons. Regular meetings and discussions between party leaders can help to prevent misunderstandings and foster a culture of cooperation. Civil Society Organizations, religious leaders, and traditional authorities can also play a role in facilitating dialogue and promoting unity at the grassroots level.
One of the most important steps in ending political vengeance is fostering a culture of political tolerance. Sierra Leoneans must come to see political competition as a healthy and necessary part of democracy, rather than a zero-sum game where the winner takes all and the loser is punished. This cultural shift can be achieved through civic education, where citizens are taught the importance of political pluralism, respect for differing opinions, and the peaceful transfer of power.
Political parties themselves can also play a role in promoting tolerance. By adopting codes of conduct that commit their members to non-violence, respect for opponents, and fair play, parties can help to create a more positive and inclusive political environment. The media also has a crucial role to play by promoting balanced coverage of political issues and avoiding inflammatory rhetoric that can stoke divisions.
Finally, the best way to move beyond political vengeance is for Sierra Leone’s leaders to focus on the common good. The country faces many challenges, from poverty and unemployment to inadequate healthcare and education systems. These challenges affect all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of their political affiliation. By prioritizing development and working to improve the lives of ordinary citizens, political leaders can shift the focus away from divisive politics and toward collective progress.
Programs that address the country’s economic challenges, such as job creation, investment in infrastructure, and improvements in education and healthcare, should be at the forefront of the political agenda. When citizens see tangible improvements in their lives, they are less likely to be drawn into the destructive cycle of political vengeance.
Sierra Leone has come a long way since the dark days of its civil war, but the legacy of political vengeance continues to cast a shadow over the nation’s progress. If the country is to truly move forward, it must break free from the cycle of revenge and embrace a new era of unity
and national healing. This requires a collective effort from political leaders, institutions, and citizens alike to commit to a peaceful and cooperative future. Political vengeance, which has for too long defined the country’s political landscape, must be condemned and relegated to history. Only by fostering a spirit of reconciliation, political tolerance, and collaboration can Sierra Leone fully realize its potential as a stable, democratic, and prosperous nation.
A crucial aspect of building a more united Sierra Leone is the role of education in shaping future generations. Schools, universities, and other educational institutions must teach students the value of national unity, political tolerance, and the importance of democratic participation. By instilling these values early on, future leaders and citizens can grow up with a strong commitment to peaceful coexistence and respect for differing political views.
Civic education programs can also emphasize the importance of participation in political processes without resorting to violence or retribution. Students should be taught that political competition is not about enemies or revenge, but about working together toward a shared vision of national development. Encouraging young people to engage in constructive dialogue and critical thinking about their country’s future will help dismantle the culture of political vengeance.
Sierra Leone’s international partners also have a role to play in supporting efforts to end political vengeance. Organizations such as the United Nations, the African Union, and ECOWAS have historically played crucial roles in maintaining peace and stability in Sierra Leone, particularly during and after the civil war. These partners should continue to encourage political dialogue and help facilitate national reconciliation processes.
Additionally, international donors can support programs aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions and fostering political tolerance. By providing financial and technical assistance for electoral reforms, civic education, and institutional capacity-building, international partners can help Sierra Leone move away from political retribution and towards a more inclusive and peaceful future.
Traditional and religious leaders in Sierra Leone also have a unique and powerful influence in promoting peace and unity within their communities. These leaders are respected figures who can bridge the gap between opposing political factions and help mediate conflicts before they escalate into violence. Their involvement in peacebuilding initiatives can help to foster dialogue and understanding among different political groups and across different regions of the country.
Religious institutions, in particular, have long been advocates for peace and reconciliation in Sierra Leone. By continuing to preach the values of forgiveness, understanding, and cooperation, religious leaders can contribute to the healing of political wounds and encourage unity among their followers. Similarly, traditional leaders can use their influence to promote the idea that all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of political affiliation, are part of the same national community and must work together for the country’s progress.
The call for an end to political vengeance in Sierra Leone is ultimately a call for a new national vision—one that transcends party lines and focuses on the well-being of every citizen. This vision must be grounded in a shared understanding that the future of Sierra Leone depends not on division, but on unity. The country’s leaders, institutions, and citizens must all play their part in building this vision.
To achieve this, a national conversation about the future of Sierra Leone is necessary—one that includes all voices, from political leaders to grassroots organizations, civil society, women’s groups, youth, and marginalized communities. This conversation should aim to create a new social contract, where the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and equality guide the country’s political and economic future. By building a consensus on what kind of nation Sierra Leone should be, the country can move beyond the destructive legacy of political vengeance and create a future where every citizen feels they have a stake in its success.
Sierra Leone stands at the threshold of a new chapter in its history. The opportunity to break free from the cycle of political vengeance and embrace a future defined by unity and reconciliation is within reach. The scars of the past are deep, but they do not have to dictate the future. Political leaders, institutions, and citizens alike must commit to a new path—one where political competition is healthy and fair, where national interests come before party politics, and where every Sierra Leonean is valued and included in the nation’s progress.
The cost of continuing down the path of political vengeance is too great. It threatens the stability, development, and peace that Sierra Leone has worked so hard to achieve. By embracing a new politics of cooperation and reconciliation, Sierra Leone can move forward as a unified nation, ready to tackle the challenges of the future together. It is time to say “no more” to political vengeance in Sierra Leone and “yes” to a future of peace, unity, and progress for all.
