“Citizens play a crucial role in shaping public policy beyond their party’s stance on these issues. While belonging to a political party is a right, these affiliations should not cloud their judgment on national priorities. Loyalty should prioritize building the country we desire. A well-informed and objective citizenry is essential for a purposeful nation. Sierra Leoneans must look beyond party lines for a sustainable and prosperous future where national interest takes precedence.”
By: George Shadrack Kamanda
Citizens need to remember that they play a crucial role in shaping public policy on national issues beyond just their political party’s stance on these issues. While citizens have the right to belong to a political party (I am a member of one), these affiliations should not cloud judgment on national priorities, such as fostering a thriving citizenry and sustainable national development. Loyalty should prioritize building the country we desire, and objectivity is crucial for this to happen. A well-informed citizenry is essential for a purposeful nation. Sierra Leoneans must look beyond party lines for a sustainable and prosperous future where national interest takes precedence.
Well-informed citizens must comprehend the issues we face to build a purposeful nation. To achieve this, Sierra Leoneans need to look beyond party affiliations. This doesn’t mean the end of political parties or that supporting or joining one is wrong. It simply underscores the importance of a sustainable and prosperous Sierra Leone where national interest takes precedence over any affiliation, whether social, political, or tribal.
Many voters go to the polls and cast their votes solely based on party allegiance or familiarity with a candidate’s name. This is not a healthy practice, and honest politicians and public servants (who do exist) should not encourage it. On the other hand, dishonest politicians and public leaders often lure voters with promises that are usually unrealistic or insincere, such as job offers, community electrification, and unfeasible projects. While I am not against campaign promises, impractical pledges made solely to gain votes hinder our nation’s progress. It’s a common belief that many grandiose promises made during campaigns will not be fulfilled, and this cynicism among voters needs to be addressed.
Regrettably, many of my fellow citizens are not familiar with their members of Parliament, councilors, or ward leaders, let alone their track records on issues affecting the public. This lack of awareness is compounded by the fact that many public leaders do not maintain public profiles, making it difficult for citizens to access information about their backgrounds and policies. In today’s digital age, public leaders have no excuse for not making relevant information available online to their constituents.
In sum, well-informed citizens must be made aware of the situation in today’s interconnected world. It is vital for citizens to have a well-rounded understanding of their country and the world and to be able to form educated opinions on public interest matters. By expanding their knowledge across various fields, citizens can accurately assess the claims and promises made by politicians, media, and others, particularly in the era of disinformation and misinformation.
About The Author
George Shadrack Kamanda is a diplomatic and legal advisor at the Permanent Mission of Sierra Leone to the United Nations in New York. He holds a Master of Studies degree in Diplomacy from the University of Oxford, a JD from Case Western Reserve University School of Law, and a post-graduate certificate in International Human Rights Law from the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School. George is a 2023-2025 Carnegie Ethics Fellow at the Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs, where his research focuses on ethics in international affairs, international migration, and ethical leadership. He is also the founder of the Necessity Firm, a not-for-profit firm based in Sierra Leone, which promotes civic education, character education, mentorship, and advocacy. George is an accomplished author and, in October 2020, published his third book, “Citizenship Reimagined: The Case for Responsible Whole Citizenry in Sierra Leone.” He is deeply passionate about Sierra Leone and specializes in matters of responsible citizenship and ethical leadership. For more information and updates on his work, you can find him on social media by searching for his full name or reach out via email: kamanda_g@yahoo.com.
