By Dr. Marah media team, USA
December 4th, USA: Dr. Kaifala Marah’s recent tour of the United States has become a turning point for the All-People’s Congress (APC), emphasizing the party’s need for unity, peace, and strategic planning to secure its political future. Invited by the APC-USA Arizona Chapter, Dr. Marrah delivered a keynote speech addressing the party’s current state post-June 2023 elections and engaged with members in several cities, including Washington, D.C., New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and Boston, Massachusetts.
Dr. Marah is the first high-ranking APC leader to tour the United States after the contentious June 24, 2023 elections. His visit revitalized discussions within the Diaspora, focusing on mending divisions and rallying support for the party. His presence underscored the importance of the diaspora’s role in sustaining the APC and shaping its future.
In his address in Arizona, Dr. Marah articulated his vision for the APC, emphasizing unity as the foundation for rebuilding the party. He described the diaspora as the party’s lifeline, urging members to work collectively toward shared goals.
As co-chair of the recently concluded Tripartite Committee, which included representatives from the government and the opposition, Dr. Marah highlighted the committee’s pivotal recommendations. He particularly emphasized the clause allowing Sierra Leoneans with dual citizenship to vote, be voted for, and hold office, which had been a contentious issue in the tripartite.
He warned that ignoring these recommendations could have serious consequences, underscoring their importance in fostering peace and enabling inclusive governance.
Dr. Marah reiterated the need to revisit the country’s electoral system, advocating for the traditional constituency-based system over proportional representation. He described the constituency system as a more democratic method that allows citizens to directly choose their representatives. He emphasized that resolving disagreements over electoral reforms should involve broader consultations; ensuring decisions reflect the will of the people.
In his keynote speech in Phoenix, Arizona, Dr. Marah criticized the current government’s management of the country’s economy, citing high inflation. He accused the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) of wasteful spending, inefficiency, and failing to capitalize on the economic gains made under former President Ernest Bai Koroma.
Drawing from his tenure as Minister of Finance, Dr. Marah outlined the fiscal discipline and stable growth achieved during the APC administration, urging a return to such principles to restore public confidence.
Dr. Marah emphasized the critical need for APC members to unite and work strategically to regain power. He warned against the harmful impact of divisive social media narratives, urging members to refrain from falsehoods and personal attacks. Instead, he encouraged a focus on solutions that promote collaboration and strengthen the party.
Quoting his address, Dr. Marah stated, “Our interconnected destinies demand that we work together, like conjoined twins, bound by a shared future.”
Broader Implications for APC’s Future: Dr. Marah’s tour signals a renewed commitment to addressing the challenges facing the APC, including internal divisions and electoral controversies. His leadership and clear vision for the party have reinvigorated hope among members, particularly in the diaspora, as the APC looks to reclaim governance.
Dr. Kaifala Marah’s visit to the United States was a critical milestone for the APC. By addressing both party and national challenges, he provided a roadmap for unity and strategic growth. His engagement with the diaspora and emphasis on democratic principles have positioned him as a key leader in the APC’s efforts to navigate its current crossroads and prepare for the future.
