Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara (JFK), a leading figure in Sierra Leone’s All People’s Congress (APC) and a key member of the Tripartite Committee, recently took to Twitter to share his perspective on the committee’s complex dynamics.
Through a series of vivid proverbs, Kamara provided a nuanced commentary on the political landscape and the responsibilities of those involved.
In
his tweet, Kamara wrote, “He who volunteers his head for the breaking of a
coconut should not expect to eat from it. You cannot stretch your hands further
than the bones will allow. The cat will hide its claws to feign friendship with
the rat.” These proverbs, rich in cultural and metaphorical significance,
reflect the cautious yet strategic approach required in political negotiations.
Kamara’s first proverb, “He who volunteers his head for the breaking of a coconut should not expect to eat from it,” suggests that those who take on risky or sacrificial roles may not always benefit directly from the outcomes.
This can
be seen as a commentary on the sacrifices made by committee members who work
for the greater good without expecting personal gain. In the context of the
Tripartite Committee, it highlights the selfless efforts of members working
toward electoral reforms, acknowledging that their contributions might not
result in immediate or personal rewards.
The second saying, “You cannot stretch your hands further than the bones will allow,” emphasizes the limitations and constraints faced by individuals within the committee. It underscores the need for realistic expectations and the recognition of inherent limitations in political negotiations.
This proverb
serves as a reminder that while ambition and effort are essential, one must
also recognize and work within the boundaries of their capabilities and
situational constraints. For the Tripartite Committee, this means balancing
aspirations for comprehensive reforms with the practical challenges of the
political environment.
Lastly, “The cat will hide its claws to feign friendship with the rat” serves as a cautionary note about the duplicity that can pervade political alliances. It warns of the potential for hidden agendas and the importance of vigilance in navigating these relationships.
This proverb highlights the necessity of
caution and discernment in political interactions, suggesting that apparent
allies may harbor concealed intentions. Within the Tripartite Committee, this
implies the need for members to be wary of underlying motives that might
disrupt the pursuit of fair and transparent electoral reforms.
Kamara’s use of proverbs not only reflects the rich cultural heritage of Sierra Leone but also offers profound insights into the delicate and often challenging nature of political negotiations.
His message serves as both a guide and a
warning for those involved in the Tripartite Committee, emphasizing the
importance of selflessness, realism, and vigilance in the pursuit of democratic
integrity and electoral justice.