Julius Mustapha Harding
Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Sierra Leone’s political scene is undergoing a transformation as young contenders like Osman Timbo, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura and Ady Macauley officially declare their bids for the presidency. Their announcements have sparked national interest and revived a crucial question: Is the country ready to be led by someone from a younger generation?
Drawing inspiration from global campaigns like “Not Too Young to Run,” these young contenders positions themselves as part of a generation eager not just to participate in politics but to take charge. Their presidential ambition goes beyond personal goals, it reflects a broader change in mindset among Sierra Leonean youth. They are no longer satisfied with being sidelined as political rally supporters or election-time volunteers. Today’s youth are stepping forward with vision, planning, and a drive to take responsibility.
Influential young leaders such as Dr, David Moinina Sengeh (Radical Inclusion), Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, Ady Macauley, Osman Timbo and Ben Kelfala have entered the political spotlight. Their growing presence demonstrates that youth involvement in governance is shifting from rhetoric to real action.
Yet, a deeper issue lingers: Is the electorate genuinely ready to embrace a young leader?
Doubt remains strong, rooted in longstanding beliefs that associate age with experience and youth with naivety. But international examples challenge this view. From France’s Emmanuel Macron to Chile’s Gabriel Boric, young heads of state are not only winning elections but also introducing transformative leadership.
What Sierra Leone truly needs is not necessarily an older figurehead, but a leader with a compelling vision, innovative solutions, and the endurance to implement them. If readiness is defined by a shift in perspective, perhaps it’s not young aspirants who must prove their worth, but the country that must broaden its mindset.
The future isn’t waiting quietly in the shadows, it’s stepping boldly into the spotlight, campaigning with energy and intent. As the political atmosphere heats up, Sierra Leone stands at a pivotal moment: will it welcome a new generation of leadership, or cling to the familiarity of the past? One thing is clear, today’s youth are not asking for permission; they’re ready to lead.
Source: Sierraloaded
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