By Alfred B. Koroma (Consultant Editor)
Peace and democracy are two inseparable concepts that have been misconstrued as mere paraphernalia since Sierra Leone attained Independence in 1961.
The failure of our educated elites to adequately interpret these concepts has today dragged us into this ugly state of abysmal darkness, poverty and degradation.
What Sierra Leoneans need at this perilous moment in our history are peace, unity and togetherness especially now that the country is facing a very serious national election.
What has also caused our political and socio-economic decadence is that, our Religious Leaders have failed to call things by their correct names and titles and they have also failed to accept the truth on the ground.
The truth of the matter is that, the Presidential and Parliamentary elections that is to be held in five(5) month from now is at the moment having a lot of problems ranging from registration, exhibition and now the question of Proportional Representation(PR).
Up to date the people of Sierra Leone do not know the type of election come June, 24 2023.
The political atmosphere in Sierra Leone today is in a very conflicting State. The people are ready to vote at all cost to see a change as they saw a change in 2018, provided the elections are conducted in a very peace-full manner.
The people have the mandate to remove any government in power by law-full means only.
There has been disagreement in opinions and impressions among Sierra Leoneans since the question of PR system came into play.
This has been manifested in the recent appeals made by ordinary Sierra Leoneans and political parties. But from the look at things, the incumbent is pushing very hard to win the day.
As a nation, we should forgive our fellow compatriots who must have offended us at every given time.
President Julius Maada Bio being a decent and pious man, has the country at heart and notwithstanding what has transpired since he took over as President.
President Bio has also expressed his willingness to conduct free fair and credible elections come June, 24 2023
As a people, we should learn to inculcate the spirit of forgiveness. We should put aside sycophancy, nepotism, despotism, tribalism, regionalism and stand for democracy.
This is the only way we can be seen to be on the road to progress, without that, Sierra Leone is at a crossroad.
The 2023 election is the only way to peace, unity, freedom and justice and nothing more.
God help Salone.