Media Analysts Moinina Says Strasser’s Leadership Was Undermined by Political Interference

Media analyst and researcher Dr. Victor Moinina has said Sierra Leone could have achieved greater progress if former Head of State Captain Valentine Strasser had been allowed to lead without political interference.

Speaking on Epic Radio, Dr. Moinina reflected on Strasser’s tenure, describing him as a young leader whose potential, in his view, was undermined by external political interference.

“We once had a young president in the form of Captain Valentine Strasser, and if we look at his leadership traits, if it wasn’t for politicians interfering with his leadership, I think we would have had a better Sierra Leone,” he said.

Using Strasser’s experience as an example, Dr. Moinina argued that young people should not be excluded from leadership roles based solely on age, stressing that many possess the qualifications required to govern effectively.

“Among those contesting for leadership today, there are young people with the education, skills, and sense of responsibility needed to govern effectively,” he stated.

He further emphasized that leadership should be determined by competence, integrity, wisdom, and commitment to public service, rather than age.

“Leadership should never be judged solely by whether someone is young or old. Leadership should be based on competence, wisdom, integrity, and the ability to serve the people effectively,” he added.

Dr. Moinina also suggested that after decades of predominantly older leadership, Sierra Leone should be open to giving qualified young leaders opportunities to serve at the highest levels.

His remarks contribute to ongoing national discussions on youth participation in governance and the future of political leadership in Sierra Leone.