In the words of President Bio: "Because of Democratic Principles..."

Because of Democratic Principles… ~ President Bio

“In his remarks to a group of Sierra Leoneans, President Bio stated, “Because of democratic principles, the time wae ar get, ar nor go able change this country.”

— 18 February 2025

This is a pivotal moment in history—the president of Sierra Leone is officially waving the white flag in surrender.

People who shut their eyes to reality simply invite their own destruction’ ~ James A. Baldwin.

Some analysts have observed that the President has acknowledged his failures in Sierra Leone, similar to many former presidents before him.

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Corruption, Violence, and Division! How Sierra Leoneans Treat Their 'Mama'! Sierra Leone needs a clean start, a fresh beginning. Otherwise, the worst abuses during the past 63+ years would most certainly reappear in more vicious forms!

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A shocking confession that he cannot change the country's course has left Sierra Leoneans stunned, as they view it as a public admission of his failure to lead the nation.

To truly grasp the meaning behind his words, it's essential to delve into the definitions of democratic principles. Understanding these core concepts will illuminate their significance and relevance to our society.

What are the definitions of democratic principles?

Democratic principles represent the bedrock of a just and equitable society. They are essential for guaranteeing fair and free elections, allowing every citizen to participate in shaping their government. These principles safeguard fundamental human rights, including the freedoms of assembly, association, personal property, religion, and speech. They uphold the essential tenets of citizenship and the consent of the governed, ensuring that voting rights are protected and that individuals are shielded from unjust governmental actions that threaten their life and liberty. Embracing these principles is vital for fostering a democracy where everyone’s voice matters and human dignity is respected.

So, is President Bio hinting at a different perspective? Take a listen to some analysis.

The country has experienced considerable economic challenges, emphasizing a crucial need for change and improvement.

President Maada Bio's admission revealed his inability to implement the transformative changes our country needs, instead promising to motivate future leaders to undertake this crucial task.

…but “will inspire so many people, and that inspiration will live on…” ~ President Bio.

Call things by their names.

How can someone truly and effectively inspire and motivate future generations while candidly expressing his own doubts about the path to change?

He who feels it knows it—the tiredness, the frustration. To my fellow countrymen, when we feel worn out and weary, remember that the Bible teaches that encouragement brings hope. The verse says, '... he makes everything beautiful in its time' (Ecclesiastes 3:11). So my words of encouragement do not give up. God is mindful of us all and our situation.

Theo Edwards for YAME Digital

“Because of democratic principles, the time wae ar get, ar nor go able change this country.” What do you think President Bio is implying? His he simply asking for more time or what? What’s your take? Post your comments in the Post Comment section of the article.

From Council Flat to Chaos: How a Londoner Became President of Sierra Leone, and Why It Was Doomed from the Start

Who the cap fits, let HIM/HER wear it!

By Reggie Cole | 24th August 2024

A Disconnect from Sierra Leone's Reality. A man who lived in a London council flat for 22 years, unemployed and seemingly disconnected from the everyday struggles of making ends meet, somehow rises to become the President of Sierra Leone.

Imagine this: a man who lived in a London council flat for 22 years, unemployed and seemingly disconnected from the everyday struggles of making ends meet, somehow rises to become the President of Sierra Leone.

At first glance, it sounds like a modern fairy tale—a story of unlikely triumph. But what has followed is anything but a fairy tale. Today, the country finds itself in chaos—economically crippled, politically fractured, and socially volatile. How did we get here, and why was this outcome so predictable?

A Disconnect from Sierra Leone's Reality

Sierra Leone Political Map — Dstrict and Chiefdoms — Source: Statistics SL

For over two decades, this individual was living far away from the streets of Freetown, instead experiencing life in London—specifically, in a council flat funded by the UK welfare system. Now, this is not to undermine the struggles of anyone who has faced unemployment or economic hardship. However, governing a nation like Sierra Leone demands more than sympathy—it demands acute, hands-on knowledge of the country’s unique struggles.

The Sierra Leonean people suffer daily from failing infrastructure, chronic poverty, and a devastating history of corruption and tribalism. How can someone who spent years unemployed in a foreign country, insulated from these issues, have any real understanding of the realities facing the ordinary Sierra Leonean? Leadership isn’t something you can grasp from afar. It requires being on the ground, living the struggles, and engaging deeply with the people. This individual’s detachment from these issues left him unprepared to govern effectively.

Lack of Leadership Experience

Leadership, especially on a national level, requires years of experience, decision-making skills, and the ability to navigate complex and sensitive issues. For someone who has been unemployed for over 20 years, the lack of experience in managing even small teams or resources should be a red flag, let alone handling a nation. Running a country like Sierra Leone demands a grasp of everything from economic policy to social justice, international diplomacy to healthcare reform. This role is no place for someone learning on the job. Yet, here we are, watching the country spiral into chaos because of a profound lack of preparedness in the highest office.

Misalignment with the People

Being detached from Sierra Leone for so long, this individual could not possibly understand the heartbeat of the nation. Sierra Leone is a complex country with deep-rooted tribalism, economic hardships, and a fragile political structure. The people’s needs are diverse and urgent: better healthcare, education, reliable infrastructure, and jobs. A leader without intimate knowledge of these realities is bound to be misaligned with the needs of the people. Governance requires connection and empathy—qualities best fostered by living among and understanding the people you aim to serve. In this case, living abroad for decades only created a massive gulf between the leader and the nation.

National Stability Requires Expertise

The truth is simple: governance requires expertise, not just in politics but also in economics, law, and social reform. An inexperienced leader is bound to make critical missteps. Running a country is not like running a household—it requires a strategic approach to problem-solving, international diplomacy, and an understanding of complex systems. When someone with little to no relevant experience steps into such a role, chaos is inevitable. And today, that chaos is Sierra Leone’s reality.

The Predictable Downfall

In the end, Sierra Leone’s current predicament was predictable from the start.

You cannot lead a country into prosperity with a complete disconnect from its history and problems, nor can you tackle tribalism, poverty, and corruption without a deep understanding of the fabric of the nation. Sierra Leone deserved better leadership—leadership rooted in knowledge, experience, and a genuine connection with its people.

What we are seeing today is the consequence of placing an unprepared individual in a position of immense power. The lesson for all of us is clear: leadership matters, and in a country as fragile as Sierra Leone, it’s not something we can afford to get wrong.