An Opinion
By Dr. Fatima Babih
This candid opinion spotlights the growing influence of Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, former Minister of Basic and Secondary Education turned Chief Minister of Sierra Leone. With a discerning eye, Sierra Leoneans are urged to remain watchful as Julius Maada Bio grooms Dr. Sengeh as his potential successor. When a despot grooms his successor, it is only logical to believe that such a successor, too, will be a despotic leader.
Dr. Sengeh’s recent fanfare of cutting off his dreadlocks on camera is a mere facade for a deeper grooming process in Mr. Bio’s cabal. Despite the presence of a silver-tongued Minister of Information, Sengeh emerges as the face of the government in both domestic and international arenas, often representing Mr. Bio at crucial events and meetings.
The recent appointment of Sengeh to chair the constitutional review of Bio’s political party, the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), is an effort to solidify his position within the SLPP to pave the way for his ascension to leadership in the party. In addition to his role as Chief Minister, Sengeh effectively functions as the de facto Vice President and Minister of Information, positioning him as a potential future leader of Sierra Leone.
However, amidst Sengeh’s fast rise to power, there are concerns about his portrayal as a poster boy for youth in leadership in a country plagued by systemic challenges, where the majority of young people lack access to essential opportunities. Behind the facade of youth empowerment lies a calculated strategy by Mr. Bio to bolster Sengeh’s visibility, both nationally and internationally, to prepare for a seamless transition of power.
In light of these trends, it is easy to see that an underlying motive drives Sengeh’s rise within Mr. Bio’s cabal. Sierra Leoneans must, therefore, remain attentive to this obvious grooming process that may have great consequences on the governance and development of the country.
Dr. Sengeh’s trajectory from earning a PhD, without any managerial or administrative experience to becoming the country’s Minister of Basic and Secondary Education to Chief Minister and potential future leader of Sierra Leone raises critical questions about the direction of the nation’s governance.
As Sierra Leoneans navigate the complexities of political maneuvering and power dynamics, it is imperative to remain vigilant and actively engage in shaping the future of the country. The rise of Sengeh underscores the need for transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in leadership, ensuring that the aspirations and interests of all Sierra Leoneans are represented and protected.
By remaining informed, vigilant, and actively participating in the political processes, citizens can contribute to upholding democratic principles and safeguard the nation’s future direction.
MAMA SALONE ~ Lioness of the West Coast 