By Thomas V.M. Sengeh

The echoes of history often carry lessons for those who dare to listen. As we contemplate the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and its future under President Julius Maada Bio’s administration, we must look back, not just to the story of our nation, but further—to the wisdom found in African literature. Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart tells a story of unity undone by internal conflict and external manipulation, warning that even the strongest societies are vulnerable when discord is left unchecked.

In Achebe’s novel, the Umuofia clan fell because its people did not recognize the subtle, corrosive force of division sown by outsiders. They assumed that their unity was indestructible, only to realize too late that the enemy within could wield even more power than those beyond their borders. As divisions grew and loyalties fractured, their shared values were undermined. It was not a force of military might or overwhelming power that brought Umuofia to its knees; it was the insidious spread of internal discord, unchallenged.

Today, as Sierra Leone’s People’s Party strives to build on the progress and goals set forth by President Bio’s administration, we must be vigilant against forces that seek to divert us from the path of national progress. It is no coincidence that moments of promise are often accompanied by increased attempts at division. Voices from the outside may seek to provoke, to spread disunity, and to fuel contention within our ranks. They aim not just to weaken the administration but to thwart the ambitions of the entire nation. We must remember that the strength of the SLPP does not lie merely in policy but in the solidarity and commitment of its members to a shared vision.

Unity is not just a virtue; it is an essential bulwark against forces that thrive on division. The work of President Bio’s administration reflects the aspirations of many across Sierra Leone: from fostering economic growth to improving educational opportunities and strengthening healthcare. Yet, progress brings attention, and attention, often, brings adversaries. Those who seek to destabilize this progress understand that one of the most effective strategies is to sow discord within. They aim to shift the focus from policy and achievement to internal disagreements, hoping to draw us into the same trap that ensnared Umuofia—a trap where energies are spent on squabbles rather than solutions.

To counter this, we must stay grounded in our shared goals and mindful of external narratives designed to provoke. Unity does not mean the absence of debate; indeed, constructive dialogue is the lifeblood of any healthy organization. However, there is a stark difference between discussions that push us forward and disputes that drag us back. When debates serve as seeds for division rather than growth, we must recognize them for what they are: distractions planted to derail our progress. In the spirit of our ancestors, we must have the discernment to separate genuine concerns from divisive tactics, always returning to our shared mission with clarity and conviction.

In this critical moment, let each member of the SLPP embody the resilience of the Sierra Leonean spirit. Remember that our collective strength lies in our unity, our willingness to work together despite challenges, and our ability to rise above the noise. Let us forge ahead, bound by a commitment to our nation’s future, grounded in our shared values, and unyielding in the face of attempts to divide us. For as a Sierra Leonean proverb reminds us: “When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.” And if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together. In unity, there is not only strength but the endurance needed to reach the destination we envision for our beloved Sierra Leone.