Fixing Sierra Leone: Systems, Not Slogans | Sorie Sulaiman Sesay

Sierra Leone is a nation with a history marked by struggle, resilience, and an unbreakable determination to rise again. From the scars of its civil war to the trauma of the Ebola outbreak, one of the deadliest epidemics in modern history and a period marred by widespread corruption, the country today stands at a decisive moment. 

This episode, featuring Sorie “SS” Sulaiman Sesay, an economist, development practitioner, and leading political aspirant with the All People’s Congress (APC), who hopes to become the next president, examines Sierra Leone’s governance landscape through a discussion centered on crisis management, corruption, national cohesion, and electoral credibility. What unfolds is a deeply revealing, forward-looking conversation about leadership, trust, nation-building, and the future of Sierra Leone.

This episode takes a closer look at Sierra Leone at a moment when the country is still navigating the weight of its past while searching for a more stable and transparent future. The episode revisits two defining chapters of Sierra Leone’s modern history: the civil war and the Ebola outbreak. These events reshaped society, exposed fragile institutions, and, in the case of Ebola, brought global attention to how deeply corruption and weak systems can undermine even the most urgent humanitarian efforts.

Against this backdrop, the discussion explores the broader question of what strong crisis leadership actually requires. The experiences of the Ebola years point to a common challenge many countries face during emergencies: decisions need to be made quickly, but speed without structure often leads to confusion, waste, and mistrust. Ideas such as unified emergency command, pre-approved procurement processes, digital payments for frontline workers, and real-time monitoring systems are brought forward as practical ways any nation could strengthen its readiness long before a crisis arrives.

The conversation then moves into one of Sierra Leone’s most persistent issues: corruption. Despite formal bodies created to fight it, public confidence remains low. Corruption is framed not only as a financial problem but as something that affects opportunity, fairness, and development. A number of structural solutions come into focus: digitised procurement, transparent spending procedures, stronger oversight institutions, reduced discretionary authority for officials, and a more professional, merit-based civil service. Together, these reforms paint a picture of how corruption might be addressed not through dramatic gestures but through steady, system-wide changes.

From governance, the discussion shifts to identity, specifically, how a diverse nation can build cohesion after decades of political and regional fragmentation. Sierra Leone’s mix of ethnic groups, religious communities, and longstanding migrant populations means that national unity cannot depend on heritage or geography. Instead, equal access to opportunities emerges as a central theme. Whether through schools, public-sector roles, or business environments, consistent standards and fair processes are presented as essential foundations for a shared national identity. The country’s global diaspora also becomes part of the conversation, with the suggestion that people abroad often hold skills, networks, and experiences that could support national development if better connected to local systems.

Looking ahead, the episode acknowledges a growing sense of political fatigue within the country. Many citizens feel let down by previous governments, and trust in politics has eroded as promises repeatedly failed to translate into real improvements. At the same time, international partners and investors are watching closely, often less concerned about risk and more about unpredictability. Reliable rules, transparent processes, and disciplined governance are highlighted as factors that can increase confidence both domestically and internationally.

One of the most significant parts of the discussion touches on elections. After the contested 2023 process, the need for stronger electoral systems has become increasingly urgent. Implementing recommendations from post-election reviews is seen as a necessary step toward ensuring that future electoral outcomes accurately reflect the will of the people. Transparent procedures, clear legal frameworks, and independent oversight are described as essential components of a healthier democratic landscape.

By the end of the episode, Sierra Leone emerges not as a country defined by its challenges, but as one at a critical decision point. The conversation remains grounded in real issues rather than political rivalry, creating a space to consider how a nation can rebuild trust, strengthen institutions, and move forward with greater clarity and purpose.

*Disclaimer: The perspectives expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of our platform. This discussion is intended solely for knowledge-sharing and should not be interpreted as endorsement.

Produced by Global Indian Series for the Global Indian Network.

Script by Rajan Nazran
original idea: Rajan Nazran

Introduction music: (Music credit: https://freesound.org/people/TheoJT/sounds/569783/)