RUFP’s Saccoh Urges Citizens to Look Beyond Civil War Legacy

RUFP’s Saccoh Urges Citizens to Look Beyond Civil War Legacy

Abdulai D. Saccoh, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Revolutionary United Front Party (RUFP), has issued a poignant appeal to the people of Sierra Leone. He is urging the nation to move past the party’s historical ties to the civil war and instead evaluate the RUFP based on its current political trajectory and dedication to national progress.

In a recent interview on AYV Television, Saccoh acknowledged the persistent public association of the RUFP with its wartime origins. However, he contended that the party has evolved, emphasizing its contemporary goals and commitment to the country’s development.

“We are appealing to the nation to forget about that war scenario, because that is what most people think about when they hear the RUFP,” Saccoh explained, advocating for a shift in perspective.

The RUFP originated from the Revolutionary United Front (RUF), the rebel movement active during Sierra Leone’s 1991–2002 civil war. Following the conflict, the movement transitioned into a formal political party as part of the nation’s post-war reconciliation and democratic process.

Reflecting on the 2023 elections, Saccoh noted that the party faced substantial hurdles. A significant lack of resources hampered their ability to conduct a comprehensive nationwide campaign.

“Because we were very much decapitated, we didn't have enough resources to campaign across the country,” he admitted, pointing to the numerous structural challenges the party encountered.

Despite these setbacks, the RUFP remains resolute in its mission to rebuild its support base and communicate its political vision to the electorate.

“We are being very patient and steadfast in our direction of winning the people of this country,” Saccoh stated, reinforcing the party’s long-term commitment.

Saccoh positioned the RUFP as a necessary alternative for Sierra Leone, claiming the party is uniquely equipped to address the complex difficulties facing the nation today.

“We as a party are regarding ourselves as the only option to remove Sierra Leone out of this quagmire of confusion,” he asserted.

These remarks underscore the RUFP’s ongoing efforts to redefine its identity and establish a new political legacy independent of the country’s turbulent past.