By: Abdul Razack Gbla
Following a scathing critique of government priorities, Basita Michael, a prominent commentator and lawyer, has highlighted the disconnect between political posturing and the pressing needs of Sierra Leone’s citizens. In her recent article, Michael lambasted officials for their preoccupation with projecting an image of success while neglecting the root causes of critical issues facing the nation.
Among the myriad challenges outlined by Michael is the ongoing kushpedemic, frequent power cuts, soaring living costs, and dire sanitation conditions in Freetown. She also pointed to Sierra Leone’s alarming position at 151 out of 157 countries on the Human Capital Index (HCI), indicating a severe deficit in education and healthcare access. According to forecasts cited in her piece, children born in Sierra Leone today may only achieve 35% of their potential productivity due to insufficient support in these fundamental areas.
Rather than addressing these pressing concerns, Michael asserts that officials often prioritize superficial gestures such as smiling for cameras, accepting accolades, and delivering grand speeches. She argues that while these actions may momentarily obscure realities, they do little to provide meaningful solutions or alleviate the hardships faced by ordinary citizens.
Michael’s critique extends beyond the government, emphasizing the need for both government representatives and opposition figures to prioritize the well-being of the people over personal glorification. She contends that true progress cannot be measured by political awards or eloquent speeches, but by tangible improvements in service delivery and the affordability of basic necessities for all citizens.
In conclusion, Michael’s article serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for substantive governance and a shift away from image-focused politics. As Sierra Leone grapples with a multitude of challenges, her words underscore the importance of addressing root causes and prioritizing the welfare of the nation’s most vulnerable populations.
See her post
