By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
In Sierra Leone, the institution of chieftaincy remains one of the oldest and most respected pillars of governance. Long before the introduction of modern political systems, traditional leaders chiefs, paramount chiefs, section chiefs, and village heads were the custodians of authority, culture, and community welfare. Even today, their influence runs deep in both rural and urban communities.
Yet, as Sierra Leone continues to evolve democratically, the question arises: what should be the role of traditional leaders in modern governance? Should they remain purely cultural figures, or should they take a more active part in shaping local and national development?
The truth is, traditional leaders are not relics of the past. They are vital connectors between the government and the grassroots. In most rural communities, the chief’s word carries more weight than that of a politician. Chiefs are often the first responders in resolving land disputes, maintaining peace, and mobilizing citizens for development activities. They embody the trust and respect that many modern politicians struggle to earn.
However, the evolving nature of governance demands that their roles be clearly defined and modernized without eroding their traditional authority. The era when chiefs ruled by decree is long gone; today’s governance calls for inclusivity, transparency, and accountability principles that must also apply to traditional systems.
Some critics argue that chiefs have sometimes been drawn too close to politics, losing their neutrality. This is a fair concern. When traditional leaders align openly with political parties, they risk alienating sections of their own people and weakening the impartiality that once defined them. For traditional authority to remain strong and relevant, chiefs must rise above partisan politics and instead act as bridges for peace and development.
Traditional leaders also play a crucial role in local governance and development. They know their communities intimately their needs, challenges, and strengths. If properly empowered and included in decision-making processes, they can help implement government policies more effectively, especially in rural areas where formal institutions are weak or absent.
Moreover, in an age where global modernization often erodes cultural identity, chiefs serve as custodians of tradition and moral values. They remind us of who we are as a people, preserving customs, languages, and heritage that give Sierra Leone its unique character.
But respect for tradition must go hand-in-hand with progress. Chiefs must embrace modern leadership values education, gender inclusion, youth empowerment, and accountability. A chief who encourages education and women’s participation in community decision-making is not abandoning tradition; rather, he or she is strengthening it for the future.
The government, too, must recognize that effective governance in Sierra Leone cannot succeed by ignoring the traditional system. Instead, there should be structured collaboration between local councils and chieftaincies, where traditional leaders serve as partners in governance rather than passive observers,
Ultimately, the role of traditional leaders in modern governance is not to compete with politicians but to complement them by upholding unity, promoting justice, and ensuring development reaches every corner of the country.
As Sierra Leone continues its journey toward democratic maturity, the wisdom of traditional leadership remains an asset we cannot afford to lose. Chiefs may not wear suits or hold degrees, but their authority, cultural knowledge, and connection to the people are invaluable ingredients for a peaceful and progressive nation.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 15th October 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
