By Mrs Zainab Musa Tarawally
In the annals of Sierra Leone’s political history, the name Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally stands out as a towering figure whose contributions to the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the restoration of democracy are both profound and enduring. From his early days as a young activist to his strategic leadership in national politics, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s story is one of unwavering commitment, resilience and sacrifice.
Hailing from a family that played a pivotal role in founding the SLPP, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally demonstrated an early affinity for politics. Alongside notable compatriots like Foday Fofanah, Dixon M. Rogers, Mohamed Swarray and Hon. Foday Rado Yokie, he was part of the youth brigade that championed the re-establishment of multiparty democracy in Sierra Leone in 1991. His efforts, in collaboration with prominent organizations such as Tegloma and the SLPP North America chapter, were instrumental in reviving the party’s influence and laying the groundwork for the SLPP’s return to power in 1996.
During the turbulent years of Sierra Leone’s civil unrest, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally stood steadfast. As a young generation leader, he accompanied the late President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah into exile, became a founding member of the sanction monitoring team and worked tirelessly to restore democracy. Partnering with ECOMOG forces and the Civil Defence Forces (CDF), he played a crucial role in reinstating the SLPP Government.
Elected as a Parliamentarian in 2002, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally was an influential member of the SLPP’s Strategic Planning Committee, which secured a resounding victory for the party, winning over 70% of the votes. His visionary leadership was evident when he chaired the SLPP working group tasked with assessing the party’s chances in the 2007 presidential election. It was Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally who foresaw the need for a dynamic leader and successfully introduced Rtd. Brigadier Julius Maada Bio to the SLPP as a fitting presidential candidate. Despite facing internal opposition and personal setbacks, including the removal of his parliamentary symbol, he remained committed to the party’s cause.
Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s political acumen extended beyond party lines. His friendship with Ernest Bai Koroma (EBK), rooted in their families’ shared history, positioned him as a strategic bridge between the SLPP and other political factions. This relationship enabled him to protect SLPP interests during challenging times, notably dismantling threats from the PMDC and restoring SLPP dominance in its southeastern stronghold.
As a grassroots leader, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally spearheaded numerous development projects in the southeast, including the rehabilitation of Njala University, improved township roads and enhanced water supply systems. His efforts also extended to securing the release of CDF members detained by the International Criminal Court, demonstrating his commitment to justice and reconciliation.
Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s unwavering dedication to the SLPP was evident during pivotal moments in the party’s history. In the lead-up to the 2018 elections, he sacrificed personal ambitions and ministerial opportunities to ensure the party’s return to power. His financial contributions, exceeding $1 million and strategic alliances with smaller political parties were critical in securing victory during the runoff election.
In 2023, Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally once again rose to the occasion, mobilizing over $1.5 million and leading nationwide campaigns to bolster SLPP’s position. Remarkably, he sought no political appointment, focusing solely on the party’s success.
Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s life is a testament to selfless service, unwavering loyalty and visionary leadership. As a formidable figure in Sierra Leone’s political landscape, his legacy inspires future generations to prioritize national unity and collective progress over personal gain.
As Sierra Leone continues its journey toward sustained democracy and development, the contributions of leaders like Hon. Tarawally serve as a powerful reminder of the impact of dedication and strategic foresight.
