By Aminata Abu Bakarr Kamara
In Sierra Leone, the role of traditional leaders remains one of the most intriguing and enduring features of the nation’s governance system. Rooted in centuries-old customs and community values, chiefs and other local authorities have long been seen as the moral compass and custodians of culture. Yet, as the country modernizes and democratic institutions expand, a critical question arises: are traditional leaders still the custodians of the people’s trust, or have they become competitors within the modern governance structure?
Traditional leadership in Sierra Leone predates colonial rule. Chiefs were not merely rulers; they were mediators, land custodians, and guardians of social order. When colonial administrators introduced indirect rule, these traditional structures were woven into the state apparatus, giving chiefs administrative powers while maintaining their cultural authority. This dual role continues today, especially in rural communities where the influence of chiefs is often stronger than that of elected officials.
In many chiefdoms, people still turn to their paramount or section chiefs before consulting a government representative. From settling land disputes to promoting community development, traditional leaders often serve as the first point of contact between the people and the state. Their ability to mobilize communities and enforce social discipline remains unmatched, particularly in places where government presence is limited. In this sense, they are indeed the custodians preserving peace, custom, and local governance continuity.
However, the growing tension between traditional authority and modern democratic governance cannot be ignored. With the decentralization of power through elected local councils, there has been a quiet but persistent struggle for influence. Some critics argue that certain chiefs have become too politicized, aligning themselves with political parties and undermining their neutrality. When traditional authority gets entangled with party politics, the result is often division, favoritism, and erosion of community trust.
Moreover, questions of accountability and transparency have also surfaced. Unlike elected officials, most chiefs are hereditary leaders, not chosen through popular vote. This raises concerns about inclusivity, especially among women and youth who often feel sidelined in chiefdom decision-making processes. As Sierra Leone moves toward a more participatory democracy, the challenge lies in balancing respect for cultural heritage with the principles of democratic governance.
Yet, despite these challenges, traditional leaders continue to play vital roles in areas such as conflict resolution, land administration, and local development. During national crises like the Ebola outbreak and the recent battle against drug abuse chiefs have been instrumental in mobilizing grassroots action and enforcing community-based policies. Their influence, if properly harnessed, could complement rather than compete with modern governance structures.
The future, therefore, depends on redefining the relationship between chiefs and the state. Instead of viewing traditional leaders as competitors to elected officials, Sierra Leone could strengthen mechanisms that allow both systems to work hand in hand. Clearer roles, mutual respect, and legal frameworks that promote accountability without eroding cultural authority can ensure that traditional institutions remain relevant in the 21st century.
At their best, traditional leaders embody the soul of Sierra Leone guardians of land, unity, and moral values. At their worst, they risk becoming relics of authority misused or misunderstood. The task before the nation is not to choose between the old and the new, but to merge wisdom with progress. Only then can traditional leaders truly stand as custodians, not competitors, in Sierra Leone’s modern governance.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 19th November 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
