By Lamin Bangura
As President Julius Maada Bio approaches the final phase of his Presidency, with just two years remaining in office, discussions about his legacy have intensified across Sierra Leone. With the 2028 elections on the horizon, many political observers are increasingly evaluating the performance of his administration since it came to power in 2018 under the banner of the Sierra Leone People’s Party.
One of the most pressing and controversial issues shaping this debate is the rise in drug use among young people. Over the past eight years, concerns have grown about the widespread availability and abuse of substances such as tramadol, cocaine, and particularly “kush,” a dangerous synthetic drug that has reportedly had devastating effects on sections of the youth population. Critics argue that the proliferation of these substances represents not just a public health crisis, but also a major threat to national development, as it undermines the productivity, well-being, and future prospects of young citizens.
Kush, in particular, has become a symbol of this crisis. Reports from communities and civil society groups suggest that its impact has been severe, with claims that a significant proportion of young people have been affected either directly or indirectly. The visible consequences—ranging from addiction and mental health deterioration to increased crime and social instability—have heightened public anxiety and fueled criticism of the government’s response.
Political analysts and opposition voices have gone further, alleging that the government has not done enough to combat drug trafficking and, in some cases, has even been complicit. Accusations have circulated regarding the presence of high-profile drug traffickers within the country and claims of insufficient enforcement against organized networks. These allegations, particularly those relating to cocaine trafficking, have contributed to a perception among critics that Sierra Leone risks becoming a transit hub in the global drug trade.
However, it is important to note that such claims remain contested and politically sensitive. Supporters of the administration argue that drug trafficking is a complex, transnational problem that predates the current government and affects many countries in West Africa. They point to efforts made by authorities, including law enforcement operations and public awareness campaigns, as evidence that the issue is being addressed, even if challenges persist.
As the country moves closer to the next electoral cycle, the question of how effectively the Bio administration has handled the drug crisis will likely remain central to debates about its overall legacy. For many citizens, the stakes are high: beyond political narratives, the issue touches on the future of the nation’s youth and the broader trajectory of development in Sierra Leone.
Ultimately, any fair assessment of the past eight years will need to weigh both the criticisms and the broader structural realities, while asking a critical question: has enough been done to safeguard the next generation?