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Acting National Chairman of the All People’s Congress (APC), Alhaji Osman Foday Yansaneh, has urged Sierra Leoneans to give Independence a deeper, practical meaning beyond ceremonial observance as the nation marked its 65th anniversary.
In his Independence Day message, Yansaneh said true independence must be reflected in the daily lives of citizens through dignity, access to opportunities, and hope for a better future. He warned that symbolic celebrations alone are not enough if ordinary people continue to face hardship and exclusion.
He referenced the unity of Sierra Leoneans in 1898, stating that if earlier generations were able to unite under far greater adversity, then contemporary Sierra Leoneans should also be able to come together to correct the nation’s course and secure a shared future. He said the historical example underscores the need for renewed national solidarity in addressing present challenges.
Highlighting current pressures on the country’s founding ideals, Yansaneh pointed to division, economic hardship, and a widening gap between leaders and citizens as threats to unity, justice, and shared prosperity. He stressed that the rule of law must take precedence over partisan interests, and that the wellbeing of citizens should remain the top priority of government and political actors.
He reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to inclusivity, justice, and national unity, while advocating policies that prioritize citizens’ welfare and rebuild trust between leaders and communities.
As Sierra Leone reflects on 65 years of independence, Yansaneh’s message framed the occasion as a moment for sober reflection and collective action, insisting that independence should be measured not by ceremonies, but by whether citizens experience dignity, opportunity, and hope in their everyday lives.
He might be right in his views, but he should give us a rundown on the fiftieth Sierra Leone independence in 2011 that was marred with a lot of financial frauds
Mr. Chairman I think you said it meaningfully. But there’s a problem which is not address at all by all parties. The hatred to put it aside for the love and betterment of the country. Disagree and agree, find better solutions and stop letting foreigners decide for you. Just to list few of it. Then, the independent celebrations will be meaningful. EU,USA,UK can never ever call any African leaders to help them decide on their national interests. Never. Why you, Sierra Leoneans?
Peace.