By Sylvester Samai
In Sierra Leone, a narrative of blame has become a deeply ingrained societal norm. The political climate is often dominated by accusations and finger-pointing between citizens, opposition parties, civil society organizations, and those in power. While holding leaders accountable is crucial in a democracy, the current fixation on blame has become counterproductive. It stalls progress, creates unnecessary divisions, and diverts attention from the collective efforts needed to develop our beloved motherland. It is high time Sierra Leoneans reframe their approach and adopt a spirit of complementarity that fosters unity and shared responsibility in national development.
Blaming politicians is a common refrain in Sierra Leone. Political leaders are often scapegoated for every challenge, from economic stagnation to poor infrastructure and social inequalities. While there is no denying that some leaders have failed to deliver on their promises, focusing solely on their shortcomings overlooks the systemic and historical factors contributing to these issues.
Opposition parties amplify this narrative by prioritizing criticism over constructive engagement. Civil society organizations, though pivotal in holding governments accountable, sometimes inadvertently fuel cynicism by focusing exclusively on failures without highlighting successes or proposing viable solutions. Many citizens also contribute to this culture of blame by disengaging from civic duties and expecting politicians to single-handedly transform the nation.
This cycle of blame has created an atmosphere of mistrust and stagnation. Rather than fostering collaboration, it has widened the gap between the government and the governed, slowing progress and diminishing hope for a better future. Sierra Leone’s development cannot rest solely on the shoulders of politicians. It requires a collective effort where every individual, institution, and group contributes meaningfully. This principle of shared responsibility is not a novel idea; it is a cornerstone of successful nations worldwide.
To complement the efforts of our leaders, Sierra Leoneans must embrace a mindset of active participation and accountability. Citizens, civil society organizations, and opposition parties must shift from being mere critics to becoming partners in development. This change requires a cultural transformation where blame is replaced with collaboration, and complaints are replaced with actions.
The role of citizens in national development cannot be overstated. Sierra Leoneans must transition from being passive observers to active participants in the nation’s progress. This means taking responsibility for local communities, engaging in civic activities, and holding leaders accountable in constructive ways.
For instance, instead of complaining about poor sanitation in urban areas, citizens can organize community clean-up initiatives. Such actions not only improve the immediate environment but also send a powerful message to authorities about the importance of collaboration. Similarly, parents can play a more active role in their children’s education by supporting schools and ensuring that students take their studies seriously.
The informal sector, which employs the majority of Sierra Leoneans, also has a critical role to play. Entrepreneurs and small business owners can drive economic growth by creating jobs and innovating solutions to local challenges. The government, in turn, must support these efforts by providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Opposition parties have a vital role in any democracy, but their role should extend beyond criticism. Constructive opposition involves offering alternative policies, collaborating on national issues, and contributing to the country’s development agenda.
For example, if the ruling government launches an agricultural initiative, opposition parties should not dismiss it outright but instead suggest improvements or identify complementary strategies. By doing so, they demonstrate a commitment to the nation’s well-being rather than pursuing narrow political interests.
A shift in the opposition’s approach would foster mutual respect and reduce the polarization that often characterizes Sierra Leonean politics. When political parties work together, they can achieve remarkable progress, as demonstrated in countries like Rwanda, where a collaborative political culture has transformed the nation. Civil society organizations (CSOs) are the bridge between the government and the people. Their role in promoting transparency, accountability, and human rights is indispensable. However, to complement the efforts of leaders, CSOs must balance criticism with advocacy and collaboration. Instead of focusing solely on exposing corruption or government inefficiencies, CSOs can also highlight successful initiatives and encourage replication across the country. For instance, if a government project improves healthcare delivery in one region, CSOs can advocate for similar interventions in underserved areas. Additionally, CSOs can serve as mediators during political impasses, fostering dialogue and building consensus on contentious issues. By adopting a more balanced approach, they can inspire trust and unity among citizens and leaders alike.
While the burden of development cannot rest solely on politicians, they still have a critical role in creating an enabling environment for citizen participation. Leaders must be transparent, accountable, and inclusive in their decision-making processes. One way to achieve this is by fostering a culture of open dialogue where citizens feel heard and valued. Town hall meetings, regular public updates, and inclusive policy-making processes can bridge the gap between leaders and the people. Furthermore, leaders must invest in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to empower citizens and unlock their potential. By prioritizing long-term development goals over short-term political gains, they can inspire confidence and motivate citizens to actively contribute to nation-building.
Sierra Leone stands at a crossroads. The challenges facing our nation are immense, but so too are the opportunities for growth and transformation. To seize these opportunities, every Sierra Leonean must adopt a mindset of shared responsibility and collaboration. Instead of blaming politicians for every shortcoming, let us ask ourselves: What can I do to contribute to Sierra Leone’s development? Instead of criticizing government programs, let us identify ways to make them more effective. Instead of lamenting the state of our nation, let us take pride in our collective efforts to build a brighter future.
Civil society organizations and opposition parties must also rise to the occasion. By working alongside the government rather than against it, they can amplify the impact of development initiatives and ensure that progress reaches every corner of the country.
Finally, our leaders must lead by example. By demonstrating integrity, inclusivity, and a genuine commitment to national development, they can inspire citizens and stakeholders to join hands in this noble endeavor. Blaming politicians has become a convenient excuse for inaction, but it is a luxury Sierra Leone can no longer afford. The time has come for Sierra Leoneans to move beyond blame and embrace a spirit of complementarity that unites us in the pursuit of progress.
Our nation’s development is not the sole responsibility of our leaders; it is a shared journey that requires the active participation of every citizen, organization, and institution. Together, we can overcome the challenges we face and build a Sierra Leone that future generations will be proud to call home. Let us rise to this challenge with courage, determination, and unity. The future of Sierra Leone depends on what we do today, and together, we can make it brighter.