In a pivotal and exclusive interview on Tuesday, former Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC) party, Major Retired Alfred Palo Conteh, shared poignant insights and reflections on the current state of affairs within his political party. With a resolute call for democratic governance and internal cohesion, Conteh highlighted the pressing need for transformative reforms to restore unity and credibility within the APC.
Addressing the challenges faced by the APC in the aftermath of the last party convention held in Makeni, Conteh emphasized the fundamental importance of upholding democratic principles and procedures at all levels of the party hierarchy. Expressing concerns over the inadequacies in the election process, he stressed that adherence to transparency and fairness is paramount for the APC to regain its footing as a leading political force in Sierra Leone.
“The APC must embody true democracy and distinguish itself from the ruling party by adhering to democratic norms and values,” Conteh asserted. He underscored the critical role that democratic governance plays in fostering unity, trust, and collective action within the party, highlighting the potential for a renewed sense of purpose and solidarity once the right procedures are duly followed.
Citing the proliferation of toxic rhetoric and unsubstantiated allegations on social media platforms, Conteh decried the culture of negativity and division that has permeated the internal discourse within the APC. Drawing attention to damaging accusations of high-ranking party officials colluding with the President under the cover of darkness, he urged for an end to such divisive practices that run counter to the party’s founding principles.
“We must refrain from engaging in character assassinations and baseless allegations that only serve to undermine our collective cause,” Conteh admonished. He called for a return to civility in political discourse, emphasizing the importance of respectful dialogue and constructive engagement to address differences and foster a culture of inclusivity and respect among party members.
Highlighting the need for internal solidarity and strategic focus, Conteh appealed for a unified front within the APC to overcome internal rifts and divisions. He cautioned against the divisive practice of pointing fingers and casting aspersions on fellow party members, stressing the imperative of singing from the same hymn sheet and working towards a common goal of reinstating the APC in governance.
“In the army, after operations, we conduct debriefings to assess our performance, identify areas for improvement, and learn from our experiences. The same reflective approach should be applied in politics to enhance our effectiveness and resilience,” Conteh remarked. He advocated for a post-election review within the party to evaluate past shortcomings, successes, and challenges with a view to charting a more effective and strategic course forward.
Emphasizing the critical importance of introspection and collective learning within the APC, Conteh called for a concerted effort to put the party’s house in order and address internal deficiencies. He underlined the significance of humility, self-assessment, and a commitment to reform as essential components of the APC’s journey towards renewal and relevance in the political landscape of Sierra Leone.
As Major Retired Alfred Palo Conteh’s clarion call for democratic reforms and unity reverberates throughout the APC, the party stands at a crossroads of opportunity and challenge. The path to a revitalized and cohesive APC lies in embracing democratic governance, fostering open dialogue, and cultivating a culture of mutual respect and shared purpose among its members.
With Conteh’s impassioned plea for collective action and introspection, the APC’s prospects for renewal and resurgence hinge on its ability to internalize his message of unity, integrity, and democratic accountability. As the party navigates the complexities of internal reform, the echoes of Conteh’s vision for a stronger and more united APC serve as a guiding beacon towards a brighter future for all those who share its aspirations and ideals.
