By Mahmud Tim Kargbo
In these challenging times, Sierra Leone finds itself at a crossroads that demands urgent attention and action from all individuals in positions of trust. It is imperative that leaders across various sectors—political, social, and economic—come together for a unified purpose: to rescue our nation from its current deplorable state and to reject the politics of targeting our young, bright minds. Together, we can forge a path towards a more prosperous and equitable future.
The vibrant young minds of Sierra Leone represent an invaluable resource, brimming with potential and innovative ideas. However, they are often met with hostility and exclusion, instead of encouragement and support. As we navigate this critical juncture, we implore our elders to foster a spirit of mentorship and guidance. Young and bright minds should be treated with the utmost respect, provided their actions align with the principles of patriotism and the collective good. It is this mutual respect that will foster collaboration rather than division, allowing us to build a country where all generations thrive.
Mistakes are an inherent part of the political process, and it is vital for our elder statesmen and women to recognise this reality. When young politicians stumble—often due to the manipulative traps set by more seasoned adversaries—genuine remorse should be met with understanding, not condemnation. Forgiveness can pave the way for growth and learning, enabling young leaders to rise and contribute meaningfully to our society. The politics of punishing young and bright people for their missteps only serves to alienate the very individuals who could bring about transformative change.
The targeting of young and bright minds leads to dire consequences for our nation. When these individuals are pushed aside or eliminated before they can realise their full potential, we deprive ourselves of the leaders and visionaries we so desperately need. This not only stifles innovation, but also perpetuates a cycle of despair, where the brightest among us feel compelled to seek opportunities abroad, further draining our country of its talent and resources.
Modern days civilisatin urge young politicians to speak the truth, uphold their patriotic duties, and advocate for positive change, while maintaining respect for their elders. It is crucial that they navigate the political landscape with integrity, understanding that their efforts to revolutionise our society may be met with resistance from those entrenched in toxic politics. However, they must not be deterred; instead, they should rally behind one another, forming a united front to challenge the status quo and advocate for a brighter future.
Moreover, for the sake of standard democratic practice, we encourage our politicians, both young and old, to stand firm against the politics of eliminating promising young minds. It is essential that elders do not band together to resist the emergence of young leaders; such actions would pose a significant threat to the country’s development. Instead, we should embrace a model of leadership that values collaboration and inclusivity, recognising that the future of Sierra Leone relies on the strength of its diverse voices.
The dangers of targeting our young annd bright minds extend beyond individual careers; they threaten the very fabric of our society. When vibrant young leaders are marginalised, we risk allowing neocolonialist and imperialist forces to exploit our resources unchecked. This not only undermines our sovereignty, but also jeopardises the well-being of future generations. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our country remains in the hands of its people, and that our resources benefit all Sierra Leoneans.
Let us come together—old and young alike—to build a Sierra Leone that champions its young minds and respects its elders. Together, we can dismantle the barriers that prevent progress and create a political environment, where truth, respect, and collaboration thrive. The future of our nation depends on the unity and strength of its people. Let us stand firm, advocate for what is right, and shape a future that reflects the true potential of Sierra Leone.