Sir Albert Margai was a significant figure in Sierra Leone's political history. Born on October 10, 1910, in Gbangbatoke, in what was then British Sierra Leone, he was the younger brother of Sir Milton Margai, Sierra Leone's first Prime Minister. Albert Margai was educated at the Fourah Bay College in Freetown, which was one of the prominent institutions of higher learning in West Africa during the colonial era. He furthered his studies in the United Kingdom, becoming a barrister after studying law at the Inner Temple in London. His legal training helped establish him as a prominent figure in the country’s legal and political scene.

Upon returning to Sierra Leone, Margai entered into politics and quickly rose through the ranks. Initially, he served as a member of the Legislative Council, the body that preceded the independent nation's parliament. Margai was part of the Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP), which was founded by his brother Sir Milton Margai. The SLPP was primarily formed to represent the interests of the Mende ethnic group, to which the Margai family belonged. Despite this, it also became a key player in uniting various ethnic groups in the push for independence from Britain.

Albert Margai's relationship with his brother Milton was often complicated by political differences. When Sierra Leone achieved independence in 1961, Sir Milton Margai became the first Prime Minister. Albert Margai, though part of the government, was often critical of his brother's leadership style. Albert was seen as more radical and willing to challenge colonial institutions than Milton, who was considered more moderate and diplomatic in his approach.

After Sir Milton Margai's death in 1964, Albert Margai succeeded him as Prime Minister, leading the country from 1964 to 1967. During his tenure, Albert Margai’s leadership style differed greatly from his brother's. He attempted to centralize power, and his government was accused of being increasingly authoritarian. One of his most controversial policies was his attempt to turn Sierra Leone into a one-party state, a move that was deeply unpopular with many sectors of society and stirred up political tensions.

Albert Margai's time in office also saw increased ethnic divisions, particularly between the Mende, who predominantly supported him, and the Temne, who generally supported the opposition All People's Congress (APC). His efforts to consolidate power alienated many, and corruption charges marred his administration. By 1967, widespread dissatisfaction with Margai's rule led to a hotly contested election. Though the APC, led by Siaka Stevens, won the elections, Margai's government initially refused to relinquish power. This led to a period of political instability and military intervention.

A coup d'état followed the 1967 elections, removing Margai from power and ushering in a series of military governments before the eventual restoration of civilian rule under Siaka Stevens. Margai's legacy remains controversial. While some view him as a nationalist who sought to strengthen Sierra Leone’s sovereignty, others criticize his authoritarian tendencies and the divisive policies that exacerbated ethnic tensions. After his removal from power, Margai remained largely out of the public eye until his death on December 18, 1980.

REFERENCE:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albert_Margai