In light of the current political divide in Sierra Leone, prominent female attorney Basita Micheal has expressed her concerns about the country's distressing state, where many individuals are left with no choice but to rely solely on prayers. She believes that various factors contribute to this situation.
Micheal highlights the government's unwavering arrogance and inefficiency, along with the disorganization and ineffectiveness within the opposition. She also points out the presence of intellectually dishonest civil society members who prioritize self-interest, as well as the international community's selective attention to election fraud while turning a blind eye to governance issues. All of these factors contribute to the disillusionment felt by the people of Sierra Leone.
Furthermore, she regrets that these stakeholders fail to acknowledge the erosion of the fundamental preconditions necessary for democracy, peace, and stability. Instead of supporting free and fair elections, the rule of law, and human rights, they prioritize self-preservation. The recent elections serve as a clear example of the overall decline in democratic values due to their collective failure.
Meanwhile, the ruling elite seems unaffected by the injustices, deprivation, and suffering endured by the majority of Sierra Leoneans, as they continue with business as usual.
To rectify this dire situation, Micheal emphasizes the importance of introspection for both political parties and civil society. She believes that only through collective introspection and a genuine acknowledgement of the erosion of democratic principles can trust in the political establishment be rebuilt. This process should involve sincere self-reflection at the core of their endeavours. By doing so, there is hope to reclaim a future for Sierra Leone that upholds the values of justice, accountability, and respect for the rights of all its citizens.