Together for Progress Elevating Sierra Leone’s Young Minds

By Mahmud Tim Kargbo

In these challenging times, Sierra Leone stands at a crossroads that demands urgent attention and action from all individuals in positions of trust. Leaders across political, social, and economic sectors must unite with a shared 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 toward a more prosperous and equitable future.

The vibrant youth of Sierra Leone represent an invaluable resource, brimming with potential and innovative ideas. Unfortunately, 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 minds should be treated with the utmost respect, provided their actions align with the principles of patriotism and the collective good. This mutual respect will foster collaboration rather than division, enabling us to build a country where all generations can thrive.

Mistakes are an inherent part of the political process, and it is vital for our elder statesmen and women to recognize 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, allowing young leaders to rise and contribute meaningfully to our society. The politics of punishing young individuals for their missteps only serves to alienate those who could drive transformative change.

Targeting our brightest minds leads to dire consequences for our nation. When these individuals are pushed aside or eliminated before realizing 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, compelling our brightest to seek opportunities abroad, further draining our country of its talent and resources.

Modern civilization urges young politicians to speak the truth, uphold their patriotic duties, and advocate for positive change while respecting their elders. It is crucial for them to navigate the political landscape with integrity, understanding that their efforts to revolutionize our society may face resistance from those entrenched in toxic politics. However, they must not be deterred; instead, they should support one another, forming a united front to challenge the status quo and advocate for a brighter future.

Furthermore, for the sake of democratic practice, we encourage politicians, both young and old, to stand firm against the politics of eliminating promising young minds. Elders should not band together to resist the emergence of new leaders, as such actions pose a significant threat to the country’s development. Instead, we should embrace a leadership model that values collaboration and inclusivity, recognizing that the future of Sierra Leone relies on the strength of its diverse voices.

The dangers of targeting our young leaders extend beyond individual careers; they threaten the very fabric of our society. When vibrant young leaders are marginalized, we risk allowing neocolonialist and imperialist forces to exploit our resources unchecked. This undermines our sovereignty and jeopardizes the well-being of future generations. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our country remains in the hands of its people, with resources benefiting all Sierra Leoneans.

Let us come together—old and young alike—to build a Sierra Leone that champions its young minds while respecting its elders. Together, we can dismantle the barriers that impede 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.