At the launch of the Progressive Alliance by the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and National Grand Coalition (NGC) to support the re-election of President Julius Maada Bio and form a united government thereafter, Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella (KKY) revealed in his speech six guiding principles that influenced him and NGC to join forces with the ruling party.

The first principle is a shared vision that Dr. Yumkella and NGC have with President Bio and SLPP. The remaining five factors will follow this piece in sequence.

Many leadership experts argue that being able to envision a shared vision is one of the most important characteristics of an exemplary leader. To foresee a vision requires the leader to reflect, with honesty, on his/her central beliefs and assumptions about humanity, politics, ethics, and everything else that defines life.

A leader must consider his/her past experiences, views, and possibilities in order to successfully pursue the desired future. When that purpose is well-defined, it must then be inspired in the hearts and minds of those who believe in the same goal.

According to Dr. Yumkella’s speech, the SLPP-NGC shared vision seeks to build national cohesion, heal our people from social and political divisions, and establish a compassionate national government. Furthermore, the Progressive Alliance is a shared vision for our nation’s future—putting the interest of the country first at all times, which is also a guiding principle of President Bio and SLPP, hence the slogan “Paopa Salon Go Bɛtɛ” (Sierra Leone will prosper by all means).

Dr. Yumkella commended President Bio for inspiring the shared vision in people and having courage and patience in making the Salon Fɔs dream a reality. Their shared vision for Sierra Leone is built on the fundamental pillar of national cohesion.

The shared vision will endeavor to heal the wounds inflicted on our people by politicians and strengthen national unity. The SLPP and NGC will bring healing to the people by building a prosperous, united Sierra Leone where every citizen has hope and equal opportunities to transform their lives for the better.

The shared vision is committed to forming a national government that harnesses the best and immense talents and potential of our country for the betterment of all Sierra Leoneans.