Sierra Leoneans entrusted the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) under President Julius Maada Bio with leadership in 2018, hoping for a transformative era of governance. The party’s promises were ambitious—economic growth, a corruption-free system, quality education, and improved living standards for the nation’s citizens. However, six years into their tenure, the SLPP has offered little more than unfulfilled pledges and mounting frustration. As 2028 approaches, it is increasingly evident that the SLPP has failed to deliver on its mandate. It is time for the party to step aside and allow another political force to steer Sierra Leone toward progress.
One of the SLPP’s flagship initiatives was the “Free Quality Education” program, hailed as a game-changer for the country’s struggling education sector. While the program increased access to schooling, it failed to deliver on the “quality” aspect. Reports of overcrowded classrooms, underqualified teachers, and insufficient learning materials dominate the narrative. Instead of creating a generation of educated youth, the program has left many disillusioned about the state of public education.
In the economic sphere, the SLPP’s record has been dismal. Sierra Leone’s economy continues to grapple with high inflation, rising unemployment, and stagnating growth. Despite bold rhetoric about economic reforms and attracting foreign investment, the country’s infrastructure remains inadequate, and industries are underdeveloped. Citizens face soaring food prices, unreliable electricity, and deteriorating healthcare systems—failures that weigh heavily on their daily lives.
The SLPP’s claim to champion good governance has been contradicted by persistent allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement. While the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has made strides in prosecuting cases, critics argue that the fight against graft is selective and politically motivated. The inability to implement systemic reforms to curb corruption speaks volumes about the SLPP’s lack of genuine commitment to change.
Furthermore, the government’s governance record is tarnished by accusations of tribalism, nepotism, and favoritism. Rather than fostering national unity, the SLPP’s actions have deepened divisions, alienating significant sections of the populace. The people of Sierra Leone have watched as partisan interests and political infighting overshadowed the urgent need to address national challenges.
Governance is about results, not excuses. The SLPP has had ample time to implement its agenda, yet its failures are glaring. Citizens gave the party a mandate based on promises of transformation, but the reality has been marked by inefficiency, economic hardship, and political stagnation.
Rather than attempting to cling to power in 2028, the SLPP must recognize that it has failed to meet the expectations of the people. Stepping aside would not only be an act of accountability but also a sign of respect for the democratic process. It would open the door for another political entity, potentially one with the vision and competence to develop the nation and improve the lives of its citizens.
Sierra Leone requires leaders who prioritize national development over political survival. The challenges the country faces—poverty, unemployment, corruption, and poor infrastructure—are immense but not insurmountable. What the nation needs is a government with the resolve, expertise, and integrity to tackle these issues head-on.
Political parties vying for power in 2028 must present realistic and actionable plans to address Sierra Leone’s pressing challenges. These plans must focus on diversifying the economy, creating jobs, improving healthcare, and investing in education reforms that emphasize both access and quality. Importantly, they must demonstrate a commitment to tackling corruption and fostering national unity.
A critical element of national development is inclusivity. The next government must prioritize policies that benefit all Sierra Leoneans, irrespective of tribe, region, or political affiliation. This approach will not only heal divisions but also ensure that development is broad-based and sustainable. It is time for Sierra Leone to reject partisan politics and embrace governance that is truly people-centered.
The 2028 elections provide an opportunity for Sierra Leoneans to chart a new course for their country. Voters must hold political leaders accountable, demanding transparency, competence, and a clear vision for the future. The failures of the SLPP serve as a stark reminder that rhetoric without results is insufficient. Citizens must use their voices and votes to elect leaders who will deliver on their promises.
It is equally important for civil society organizations, the media, and other stakeholders to play an active role in holding the government accountable. A robust and independent civil society is essential for ensuring that future administrations do not repeat the mistakes of the SLPP.
The Sierra Leone People’s Party under President Bio has had more than enough time to demonstrate its capability to lead Sierra Leone toward prosperity. Instead, its tenure has been marked by unmet promises, economic stagnation, and governance failures. As the nation looks ahead to 2028, it is clear that change is not only necessary but urgent.
For Sierra Leone to achieve its potential, the SLPP must step aside and allow new leadership to emerge—leadership that is committed to delivering on the promise of development and improving the lives of all citizens. The future of Sierra Leone depends on bold decisions, both from its leaders and its people. The time for excuses is over; the time for action is now.