Sierra Leone needs leaders of action, not words… KKY Leadership Questioned

By Maada Rogers Rome, Italy

Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, popularly known as KKY, remains a polarizing figure among Sierra Leoneans.

To some, he is a distinguished diplomat and intellectual; to others, his career appears centered on personal ambition and superficial optics rather than meaningful outcomes.

While KKY has long presented himself as a potential savior for Sierra Leone, his track record suggests a legacy marked by inconsistencies, self-interest, and unfulfilled promises.

KKY’s political journey is as complicated as it is contentious. His political roots trace back to his late father, a Paramount Chief who once contested against the late President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah. This historical rivalry seems to have influenced KKY’s uneasy relationship with the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). Despite his international prominence, KKY was notably absent during key moments of President Kabbah’s tenure. He neither lent his expertise to the party nor supported its struggles until his own presidential aspirations surfaced, raising questions about his motives.

When KKY sought to rejoin the SLPP, he faced justified resistance. His attempt to align with the party seemed more about leveraging its platform for personal ambition than a genuine commitment to its principles. Frustrated by his inability to dominate the SLPP, he chose to carve out an independent political path, one often characterized by self-promotion rather than collective progress.

Despite his reputation as an accomplished international diplomat, KKY’s record is not without blemish. A striking example is his handling of a significant energy project, which many believe could have transformed Sierra Leone’s energy sector. Allegedly prioritizing personal interests, KKY handed control of the project to Nigerian interests, a decision that betrayed national trust and hindered progress.

The BANKASOKA hydroelectric project serves as another point of contention. While KKY often takes credit for energy sector advancements, even former President Ernest Bai Koroma refuted his involvement in this initiative. Many of KKY’s so-called achievements stemmed from collaborative efforts, yet he frequently portrays himself as the sole architect of success, marginalizing the contributions of others.

KKY’s personality further complicates his leadership potential. His often aloof and self-aggrandizing demeanor alienates colleagues and undermines collaboration. Sierra Leone needs leaders who inspire trust, unity, and collective effort—not individuals who thrive on division and self-promotion.

For the SLPP, KKY represents a high-stakes gamble. His history suggests that he prioritizes personal ambition over party loyalty or national interest. Allowing him to wield significant influence risks undermining the SLPP’s credibility and values.

KKY’s promises often lack substance, leaving a trail of disappointment for those who trust him.

Sierra Leone needs leaders of action, not words. KKY’s record has repeatedly shown a focus on personal gain rather than genuine nation-building. His past failures serve as a stark reminder that he is not the leader Sierra Leone deserves.

The SLPP and the nation at large must stay vigilant. Leadership is defined not by accolades or rhetoric but by tangible results, integrity, and a commitment to the people. KKY has had ample opportunity to demonstrate these qualities and has fallen short. Let us not make the mistake of entrusting our future to someone whose actions consistently put personal ambition above the public good.

Sierra Leone deserves leaders who are accountable, dependable, and genuinely invested in the nation’s progress. Based on his record, KKY does not meet that standard.