For the most part, 2024 was yet another challenging year for the rule of law and democracy in Sierra Leone. To recollect and recount the setbacks in detail would be a long and painful journey down memory lane. However, reflection is vital, as it offers valuable lessons for the future.

The relationship between Sierra Leone’s two main political parties—the ruling SLPP and the opposition APC—is far deeper and more transactional than many realise.

To many politicians, loyalty, friendship, are secondary to power and money.

Our political system leaves little room for the righteous, driving away good people who might bring meaningful change.

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Public officials often feel disposable, knowing their efforts may be undervalued or discarded in the end.

Civil society too has, in some cases, prioritised financial gain over principles of justice and democracy.

The much-vaunted war on corruption often feels like a staged performance rather than a genuine effort.

Instead of making bold decisions to overhaul our institutions, we settle for patchwork solutions that fail to address root problems. In nearly every major initiative, we rely heavily on the international community. This dependence stifles originality.

It appears that emigration from Sierra Leone has reached an all-time high. While I lack official data, it is undeniable that many citizens, including those who never seriously considered relocation, are now taking concrete steps toward leaving. Among the youth, there is growing resentment toward parents who returned to Sierra Leone after studying abroad in more prosperous times. Even some of these parents privately regret their decision.

Thoughts of “japa” (escape) and “temple run” (relocation) dominate conversations, reflecting widespread disillusionment. Vivek Ramaswamy noted in a tweet that in 2020 alone, 12% of Sierra Leone’s population applied for a U.S. green card—highlighting the depth of this migration trend.

While these lessons have been uncomfortable, I am thankful for the opportunity to grow and shed some of my naivety. As we step into 2025, I am hopeful for change and eager to learn from others.

Please feel free to share the lessons you learned in 2024 and those you hope to unlearn in 2025. Happy New Year with much love and appreciation. Looking forward to hearing from you. ❤️🥰