Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Abdul Rashid Thomas
Published on 2024-03-15 09:36:06
In the ever-evolving landscape of Sierra Leonean politics, the concept of a third force has often been met with skepticism and doubt. Over the years, the political scene has been dominated by two major parties – the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the All People’s Congress (APC), making it challenging for smaller parties to gain a foothold.
These third forces, often led by charismatic individuals, have struggled to make a lasting impact in the political realm. They are usually short-lived and fail to establish themselves as significant players in the political arena. Internal discord, personal ambitions, and manipulation by established parties have hindered their progress.
One example is the National Unity Movement (NUM) led by the late Desmond Luke. Despite initial promise, the party dissolved when Luke was appointed by President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah, revealing its fragile foundation based on individual loyalty rather than enduring principles. Similarly, parties like the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Sobeh, the United National Peoples Party (UNPP) led by Dr. Karefa Smart, the People’s Movement for Democratic Change (PMDC) led by Charles Margai, and the United Democratic Movement (UDM) led by Mohamed Bangura, faced challenges and eventually faded away due to leadership changes or the demise of their figureheads.
Even the National Grand Coalition (NGC) led by Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, which was seen as a potential third force, lost its momentum when Yumkella became entangled with President Julius Maada Bio’s administration. This compromised the NGC’s credibility as a genuine alternative to the established parties.
The struggles of these parties raise concerns about the viability and integrity of third forces in Sierra Leonean politics. Can they rise above being mere distractions and become legitimate contenders capable of challenging the dominance of the SLPP and the APC?
The NGC initially brought hope for a new political narrative that could transcend traditional divides and offer a platform for real reform. However, its integration into existing power structures serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the challenges of seeking political relevance without compromising principles.
For any political movement to succeed in Sierra Leone, collective stewardship is essential. The NGC must prioritize unity, vigilance, and resilience to avoid manipulation and internal conflicts. In a political climate where expediency often overshadows principles, the NGC represents a possibility for change for those disillusioned with the current status quo.
While the idea of a third force is no longer taboo in Sierra Leonean politics, its realization remains a challenge. As the NGC navigates through the complexities of political maneuvering, its members must remain committed to a vision that prioritizes inclusivity and accountability in democracy for the people of Sierra Leone.
The question remains: Can a new third force succeed in dislodging the traditional rivals and bringing about the change that the country yearns for? Only time will tell if the NGC or any other emerging political movement can make a lasting impact on Sierra Leonean politics.
Read the original article on Sierra Leone Telegraph
