The Haunting Political Truth

By: Ibrahim Jalloh - (Jallomy)

Civic Educator, Political Analyst and Development Consultant

The political debates have lost the essence and relevance. The unbridled and mostly disjointed and fragmented discourse have lost bearing with the democratic spirit of freedom of speech. By our acts of commission and omission, we have constrained, if not defiled the governance space. It is all and all about acquisition of power and to govern. The urge to serve and service is compromised and diminished.

We want elections and now! The sole objective is to implant another generation of leadership predators. Few talk about governance and civic engagement with governance. Most talk about political occupation of state House and enjoy the "Our Turn" political gimmick.

A vital ingredient of democratic governance is in disarray and decay: the opposition! We loathe the callous disengagement from state governance, the vicious resistance to democratic change and the unsavory search for political capital even at the expense of state security.

Politicians are growling all over the place seeking support and promising what they cannot and will never fulfil in a life time

We are few days into celebrating or commemorating six decades of self rule. The euphoria is terribly absent, the mirth is sour and the fulfilment recklessly reckless.

The sitting president Julius Maada Bio stormed the nation in an unexpected and uncharacteristic manner. He faced and took the interviews to the glare and hearing of his people. He sounded incredibly honest and Frank about the state of the union. He won the day and tacitly revealed a best kept secret that buried the head of the leading opposition hitherto in government.

We count down on elections but undermine the expected outcomes of elections: a generation of leaders that will provide for the common good.

We need to think and think straight: is it all about elections and change of leadership or good governance and the provision of the good life?