21/07/2025
As the Campaign for the Film Council Leadership intensifies, is there any lesser evil?
In my opinion, I see none. Let's discuss Aiah Momoh and his colleagues:
Aiah is indeed a seasoned filmmaker with immense talent and a skilled film director who can interpret movie scripts effectively. His breakthrough film "Refugee" earned him recognition and admiration from young aspiring filmmakers. However, I question his leadership skills, considering his track record in the industry, from Urshers to Film Council.
Here's why:
Aiah once opposed the Film Council's leadership, refusing to let Michael Kargbo lead as chairman. With the support of the Film Federation, he only relented when appointed co-chair, pushing for Michael to be Chair 1 while he served as Co-Chair 2. Unfortunately, this led to stagnation. His history also shows that he frustrated Ernest Manner, a pioneer in Sierra Leone's film industry.
One may ask: apart from Western Freetown, has Aiah made genuine efforts to connect with filmmakers in East End Freetown, Western Rural, and other provinces? As a filmmaker from Kono, what impact has he created in his hometown? He recently served on the administration of Kao to represent the film industry, but what's the result? If Aiah is running, shouldn't he have resigned as Co-Chair 2? Why hasn't he?
His campaign slogan, "Monetized Film Industry," sounds vague and needs clarification. As someone knowledgeable about content monetization, I'd need to know the specifics before getting on board. Aiah Momoh is a talented director, but he seems to have greedy traits. He can lobby and network, but would do so for his own interests.
Regarding Alimatu Farrakhan, she's a talented actress and producer, but we've rarely seen her interact with the film industry beyond her personal interests or projects. That's acceptable for a producer, but not for someone who will lead people. Has she been interacting with filmmakers outside the West End of Freetown? No!
In contrast, Robinson, the Western Rural Film Union chairperson, may be the lesser evil compared to Aiah. However, he lacks the caliber for high-profile engagements and would likely need guidance from Michael or a strong team of intellects for things to be done.
This election seems predetermined to just bring in Robinson as an opposing face to save the necks of the organizers by painting a picture of a free and fair process. Questions that need answers:
1. Where's Robinson's running mate?
2. Shouldn't lower-level positions be filled before the presidential elections?
3. Where is the constitution outlining the electoral process?
Follow for Part 2 of my analysis.