Former All People's Congress (APC) presidential candidate Dr. Samura Matthew Wilson Kamara has published a memoir titled "My Circumstances of Life: Service, Betrayal, and the Struggle for Sierra Leone's Democracy". The book offers a personal account of his over four decades in public service, including his experiences in Sierra Leone's political landscape. Kamara's journey is recounted from his early life in Kamalo to senior government positions such as Financial Secretary and Minister of Finance.
The memoir examines Kamara's experiences during significant events in Sierra Leone, including the civil war, post-war reconstruction, and the Ebola crisis. His involvement in two presidential elections as the APC's flagbearer in 2018 and 2023 is also discussed. A major focus of the memoir is the controversy surrounding the 2023 presidential election, disputed results, and his engagement with President Julius Maada Bio.
Kamara addresses allegations surrounding his handling of the 2023 election results, maintaining that he did not surrender the votes of his supporters. He writes that those votes were never his to trade. The memoir also explores the breakdown of his relationship with former President Ernest Bai Koroma, whom he describes as a former friend.
The publication reflects on the political challenges surrounding Kamara's two presidential campaigns, disputed election outcomes, and the consequences for his leadership within the APC. The book is expected to generate discussion about the 2018 and 2023 elections, electoral accountability, national unity, and Sierra Leone's democratic development.
Kamara's memoir also discusses the proposed Agreement for National Unity and the work of the Tripartite Committee on electoral reforms. He describes the unfinished reform process. The book is available on Amazon in Kindle, paperback, and hardcover editions, as well as through local bookstores in Sierra Leone.
The release of Kamara's memoir comes amid criticism of President Bio's unfulfilled promises on drug abuse and infrastructure. The APC has also been involved in recent developments, including the election of Usif Kamara as Paramount Chief of Bombali Sebora Chiefdom in Makeni.
The memoir's publication is seen as a significant event in Sierra Leone's democratic development, offering a personal account of the country's recent history. Kamara's experiences and reflections are expected to contribute to ongoing discussions about electoral accountability and national unity.
Key points
- Dr. Samura Kamara's memoir provides a personal account of his life in public service and experiences in Sierra Leone's political landscape.
- The book examines controversy surrounding the 2023 presidential election and Kamara's engagement with President Julius Maada Bio.
- The memoir is expected to generate discussion about Sierra Leone's democratic development, electoral accountability, and national unity.
