John Caulker, Executive Director of Fambul Tok, has shared his view on Chief Minister David Moinion Sengeh’s chances of becoming the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) flagbearer for the upcoming election.
Speaking on an online TV discussion program, Caulker said that according to the SLPP constitution, it will be difficult for Sengeh to secure the party’s flagbearer position at this time.
He explained that Sengeh is still new in politics and is a young man, which may not fit the usual pattern in Sierra Leone where people tend to prefer older candidates. “Most times, we want to be at the safe hands of the elderly people,” Caulker said.
Caulker pointed out that the usual pattern is to choose older candidates, and President Bio was one of the few younger leaders to break that norm when he came into office.
Looking ahead, Caulker said anything might happen before the party’s executive election, and if circumstances change, Sengeh could become eligible. But for now, the odds are not in his favor.
The internal party elections are still months away, and the political landscape could change as the SLPP moves toward choosing its next flagbearer.
The odd pattern of Sierra Leone political history must change. No more older or elder selection but a candidate who can transform Sierra Leone. Young or old if Sengeh is fit for purpose then he is going to lead SLPP and become the next President of Sierra Leone.
Sengeh is one of the people we may think to be the next president of Mama salone.