From the moment the Bio-led Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) came to power in 2018, they embarked on a mission to dismantle the main opposition, the All Peoples Congress (APC). A variety of underhanded tactics were employed to achieve this goal. The security sector, judiciary, and Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) were weaponized against top APC members. Through improperly constituted Commissions of Inquiry and the ACC, APC leaders have faced extraordinary blackmail and character assassination. Travel bans were imposed, bank accounts frozen, assets seized, and many were incarcerated or subjected to persistent police harassment and intimidation.

 Despite Its Failings, The APC Is Unable to Check the SLPP

Despite human rights abuses, economic damage, ethno-regional divisions, generally ineffective governance, and the corrupt nature of the SLPP government, the APC has been unable to counter these actions. The SLPP has unfairly targeted our hardworking elders with unfounded accusations, tarnishing and blackmailing them, thus weakening the APC leadership. Even our supporters and the voting populace seem to have lost considerable confidence in the once vibrant and hopeful APC.

### New Era, New Perspectives

Despite what has happened to its leaders, the younger generation of the APC deeply appreciates and commends their older members for their esteemed services to the party. They recognize and cherish the values they have built. Their hard work will not be in vain because the younger generation, who believes in their sacrifices, will carry on their vision and protect their legacy.

That said, Sierra Leone is in an era that is totally different from what it was fifteen years ago, and so is the rest of the world. In this rapidly changing world, it is vital for the political landscape in the All People's Congress (APC) party to reflect the values, aspirations, and challenges of Sierra Leone’s younger generation. Former British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli once said that "Youth are the trustees of prosperity."

### Benefits of Young and Fresh Leadership

A 2015 study by Jack Zenger and Joseph Folkman suggests that younger managers exhibit more positive outcomes in leadership behaviors compared to their older counterparts. This highlights the presence of talented young leaders in organizations with the potential to assume key roles in the future. The study indicates that younger managers excel in areas such as embracing change, inspiring and motivating employees, seeking feedback, challenging the status quo, focusing on results, and fearlessly tackling challenges. Their ability to adapt, innovate, lead through inspiration, and drive progress and innovation sets them apart. The study emphasizes the unique qualities and strengths that younger managers bring to leadership roles.

Fresh perspectives and innovative solutions must become the foundation of the political agenda in the APC. When leaders become entrenched in their ways, political staleness naturally sets in, hindering progress. Younger leaders, free from long-held mindsets, bring fresh perspectives that question the status quo. Through their enthusiasm and novel ideas, they can offer innovative solutions to current problems, paving the way for positive change and progress.

Older politicians often struggle to connect with younger voters, resulting in a disconnect between policy-making and the needs and aspirations of the youth. By positioning younger leaders in key roles, this gap can be bridged, inspiring active participation and engagement among younger voters and fostering a strong and inclusive democracy. Above all, a youth’s call to action can better be led by one of their own.

While experienced leaders undoubtedly possess valuable knowledge, they may prioritize short-term gains over long-term planning. Younger leaders, unburdened by the weight of history, are more likely to adopt a future-oriented approach, making decisions that consider the needs and well-being of future generations. It is believed that their fresh outlook can help construct sustainable frameworks that effectively address issues such as climate change, economic inequality, healthcare accessibility, and youth empowerment.

### The Ernest Bai Koroma Example

A prime example of the benefits of young leadership can be seen in the rise of former President Ernest Bai Koroma within the APC back in 2002. When he assumed leadership, he was a fresh face and a younger leader who resonated with the electorate. Although there was initial resistance from older members of the party, it became evident that the decision to have Koroma as a new face was worthwhile. President Koroma served and respectfully bowed out even when he was still strong and popular enough to continue.

 Conclusion

For the APC to rescue Sierra Leone from the current government's grip, it must embrace fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to gaining and maintaining power. It’s just common sense for the current APC leadership and stakeholders to shed their egos and endeavor to cede power to a fresh crop of its progeny to effectively compete with its main opponent in the political arena.

Sylvester Suaray is the opposition APC Deputy Regional Chairman South and a doctoral student at the University of Cumbria, researching The Effects of Leadership Communications in Sustainable Development Initiatives.

Ishaqa S. Jalloh

Ishaqajalloh@sierraleonews.com

+23278799279