By: Aminata Sesay
The Campaign for Good Governance (CGG) has launched a nationwide civic engagement campaign aimed at strengthening democracy and promoting accountable leadership ahead of the 2028 General Elections in Sierra Leone.
The campaign, themed “Who Will Be the Next President?”, was unveiled during the organization’s 30th anniversary celebration. The event brought together civil society leaders, activists, development partners, and citizens from across the country.
Speaking at the launch, CGG Executive Director Marcella Samba-Sesay called on citizens to take an active role in governance and to hold leaders accountable beyond election periods.
“Democracy must deliver,” she said. “It is not enough to vote every five years. Citizens must remain engaged, informed, and committed to ensuring that leaders always serve the people.”
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s democratic journey over the past three decades, Sesay highlighted the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists and emphasized the importance of peaceful transfers of power. She noted that although elections have improved over the years, true democracy extends beyond the ballot box.
According to her, many politicians engage with communities only during campaign periods and fail to maintain contact after elections.
“Leadership is about service, not slogans,” she said. “Leaders must listen to the people, understand their struggles, and respond to their needs.”
As part of the campaign, CGG plans to mobilize citizens nationwide through community outreach, dialogue sessions, and civic education programs. The organization also aims to collect three million signatures by 2028 in support of democratic reforms and good governance.
Sesay emphasized that democracy must translate into improved living conditions, including access to clean water, quality education, reliable electricity, healthcare, and decent housing.
“Why are people still fetching water with buckets decades after independence? Why are schools being closed instead of strengthened?” she asked. “These are the questions leaders must answer.”
She added that the campaign would advocate for at least one functional primary school in every community, improved social services, and stronger support for small businesses.
CGG also announced plans to revive grassroots civic activism through creative approaches such as drama performances and structured community dialogues aimed at educating citizens about their rights and responsibilities.
“Governance must not be left in the hands of a few,” Sesay said. “People must understand that power belongs to them.”
Participants at the event welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and necessary for strengthening democratic culture and promoting transparency ahead of the next elections.
The “Who Will Be the Next President?” campaign is expected to run nationwide over the next three years, with activities planned in both urban and rural communities.
CGG officials say the initiative is designed to encourage informed voting, issue-based politics, and sustained citizen participation in national development.
“As we move toward 2028, our message is clear,” Sesay concluded. “We are not just choosing a leader. We are choosing the future of our democracy.”