By Mohamed Konneh
Catholic Priest and Executive Director of Caritas Freetown, Rev. Fr. Peter Konteh has once again lend his voice on leadership and the office if the President. Father Konteh’s reflection is coming at the backdrop of the many names coming up to become President of Sierra Leone. With elections slated for 2028, dozens of Sierra Leonean are now coming up wanting to become president of the country. From the side of the opposition All Peoples Congress (APC), it over twenty aspirants that have shown up while the Ruling Sierra Leone Peoples (SLPP) party has over fifteen of its members that want to succeed President Julius Maada Bio.
‘’We live in a time when everyone wants to be president—some wake up one morning and simply declare their ambition, as though leadership were a personal trophy or a tool for self-promotion,’’ Father Konteh said.
The Catholic Priest however noted that while it is indeed the right of every citizen to aspire to leadership, we must also remember that the office of the president carries sacred responsibility and moral weight.
Father Konteh Continue that the presidency is not meant to be a cheap outfit that anyone can casually wear.
‘’It is a noble trust — a covenant with the people, demanding humility, discipline, and a heart that seeks the common good above personal gain.
Today, we need deep reflection and honesty in our political culture. Too many see leadership as an opportunity for wealth and privilege, rather than a mission of service and sacrifice,’’ he emphasized.
True leaders are those who listen to the cries of the poor, guide their nations with integrity, and stand firm in truth even when it is costly.
Father Konteh called for the restoration of dignity, reverence, and accountability to the office of the president — not through empty words, but by demanding leaders who lead with conscience, compassion, and courage.
“Leadership is not about status; it is about service.
Power is not for enrichment; it is for uplifting others.”
