By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope
The Campaign for Good Governance (CGG) has launched a pivotal national initiative aimed at shaping the leadership standards for Sierra Leone’s upcoming 2028 general elections. The initiative, titled “Who Will Be the Next President? A Citizens’ Manifesto for Democracy and Basic Services,” was unveiled on February 13 at CGG headquarters in Tengbeh Town. This launch also marks the commencement of the organization’s 30th-anniversary celebrations, commemorating three decades since the nation’s return to civilian rule in 1996.
At the launch, CGG Executive Director Marcella Samba-Sesay characterized the manifesto as a critical platform for national reflection. She emphasized that the initiative aims to empower citizens to articulate their expectations for future leaders in terms of integrity, courage, and visionary governance. “Democracy must yield tangible benefits for citizens, extending beyond mere electoral processes,” Samba-Sesay remarked, stressing that effective leadership must address ongoing governance challenges.
The manifesto outlines a comprehensive framework for what CGG terms “democratic delivery.” Key priorities include:
- Essential Services: Improved access to clean water, sanitation, healthcare, electricity, and housing.
- Economic Opportunities: Focused efforts on quality education and job creation for the youth.
- Governance: Promotion of accountable leadership, independent institutions, and responsible management of natural resources.
To facilitate engagement across communities, CGG announced the revival of its “Drama, Dance, and Dialogue” (DDD) outreach program, designed to creatively connect with both rural and urban populations nationwide.
With an objective to gather three million signatures before the 2028 elections, the organization views this signature drive as a means to symbolize 30 years of democratic progress while also seeking high-level endorsements to amplify public demands for improved service delivery.
The launch of the Citizens’ Manifesto occurs at a crucial juncture as discussions around the next electoral cycle begin to intensify. By focusing on the manifesto, CGG aims to ensure that the next presidency aligns with the democratic aspirations that emerged during the historic Bintumani conferences of the mid-1990s.
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