By Sylvester Samai
As Sierra Leone navigates its way through the political turmoil of recent years, the 2028 general elections largely looms in the horizon. For the All Peoples Congress (APC) party, that election represents more than just a chance to reclaim power; it is opportunity to redefine the party’s legacy and vision for Sierra Leone. The 2023 elections left the APC at a critical juncture. Following their loss to the Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) under President Julius Maada Bio, the APC must now confront its weaknesses, reshape its strategies, consolidate its grassroots support and reinvigorate its leadership to step up to the challenges of 2028.
The 2023 general elections exposed significant flaws in the APC’s political machinery. Although the APC maintains a substantial base of support, especially in the northern regions and the Western Area, several key issues hindered their ability to secure victory. One of the most glaring problems was the party’s lack of a clear and compelling vision that could effectively counter the narratives presented by the SLPP.
In contrast, President Bio’s SLPP capitalized on promises of reforms, focusing on flagship programs like Free Quality Education and infrastructural development. While these initiatives faced implementation challenges, they allowed the SLPP to present itself as a forward-thinking party, keen on addressing the needs of ordinary Sierra Leoneans. The APC, on the other hand, struggled to present a fresh, unified message that could resonate with the electorate.
Additionally, internal divisions and factional infighting plagued the APC, weakening its campaign efforts. Without a cohesive leadership and vision, the party’s electoral strategy fell short. This disunity must be addressed if the APC is to mount a credible challenge in 2028.
If the APC is to step up and rise to the occasion in 2028, the first and most important step is internal reform. The party must overhaul its organizational structure and introduce mechanisms to foster greater unity and collaboration among its members. A divided party cannot inspire confidence, nor can it effectively mobilize support.
Internal Unity: One of the key issues facing the APC is the ongoing factionalism within its ranks. For years, competing factions have vied for control of the party, leading to disjointed messaging and weakening its overall effectiveness. It is essential that the APC leadership takes concrete steps to address these divisions. This means fostering an environment of inclusivity, where all members, regardless of their factional alignment, feel they have a stake in the party’s future. A unified APC is a stronger APC.
Youth and Gender Representation: The APC must embrace diversity and make a concerted effort to incorporate young people and women into its leadership and decision-making processes. Sierra Leone has a young and dynamic population, and any party that seeks to lead the country must engage with the aspirations of this demographic. The APC has a golden opportunity to tap into the energy, ideas, and activism of the youth, and by doing so, it can present itself as the party of the future.
Moreover, gender inclusivity should be a priority. Women play a critical role in Sierra Leonean society, and their representation within the APC’s leadership will enhance the party’s appeal. The APC must champion policies that empower women, promote their rights, and ensure equal opportunities in education, employment, and leadership roles.
Rebranding and Messaging: The APC must rebrand itself as a party of solutions, focusing on tangible outcomes that address the daily struggles of Sierra Leoneans. The party must offer clear policy alternatives to the SLPP’s agenda, highlighting its own vision for economic recovery, healthcare reform, education, infrastructure, and governance. Sierra Leoneans want real change, not empty promises. The APC must articulate how it plans to improve the lives of ordinary citizens and provide a roadmap for achieving those goals.
At the heart of the APC’s future success is its leadership. The party must put forward leaders who are not only experienced but also visionary, charismatic, and capable of inspiring hope. The current political climate demands leaders who can unite the party, challenge the status quo, and navigate the complex challenges Sierra Leone faces.
Samura Kamara’s Role: As the face of the APC in the 2018 and 2023 elections, Dr. Samura Kamara remains a significant figure within the party. His economic expertise and diplomatic experience gives him credibility, but there are growing calls within the party for fresh leadership. Whether Kamara remains the standard-bearer or passes the torch, the APC must ensure that its leadership reflects a dynamic and forward-looking approach.
If Kamara continues to lead, he must address the criticisms that have been leveled against him, particularly his perceived lack of assertiveness in opposition. Sierra Leoneans expect more than rhetoric; they expect action. Kamara must step up his efforts to hold the Bio administration accountable and present himself as a leader with a clear and actionable plan for the country.
Emerging Leaders: The APC must also encourage the emergence of new leaders within its ranks. The party needs fresh faces that can connect with younger voters and bring innovative ideas to the table. Leadership transitions should not be seen as a threat but as an opportunity to revitalize the party and infuse it with new energy. Sierra Leoneans are tired of recycled leaders who represent the same old political dynamics. The APC has the chance to present a new generation of leaders who can chart a different course for the nation.
Building Trust with the People: The 2028 elections will be won by the party that can earn the trust of the people. For the APC, this means addressing past governance failures and presenting itself as a party that has learned from its mistakes. Transparency, accountability, and integrity must be at the forefront of the APC’s platform. The people of Sierra Leone have grown weary of corruption and mismanagement. The APC must commit itself to good governance and demonstrate its willingness to lead by example.
The APC cannot afford to be a party that only speaks to the elites. It must engage with grassroots movements, civil society organizations, and local communities to understand the needs and concerns of ordinary Sierra Leoneans. A top-down approach to politics is no longer sufficient in the 21st century. The party must invest in grassroots mobilization, listening to the voices of farmers, traders, students, and laborers. These are the people who will determine the outcome of the 2028 elections.
By fostering closer relationships with the grassroots, the APC can build a coalition of supporters who are invested in the party’s success. This requires more than just campaign promises—it requires sustained engagement and a commitment to addressing the real issues facing Sierra Leoneans. Whether it’s improving access to education, tackling unemployment, or providing healthcare, the APC must be seen as the party that truly cares about the well-being of the people.
The APC must present a compelling vision for Sierra Leone’s future—one that goes beyond mere opposition to the SLPP. This vision must be rooted in the values of economic empowerment, social justice, and sustainable development. Sierra Leone is a country with immense potential, but it requires a government that can harness that potential for the benefit of all its citizens.
Economic Recovery: The APC must prioritize economic recovery, focusing on job creation, industrialization, and sustainable development. The country’s over-reliance on foreign aid and mineral exports must be reduced, and the party must advocate for policies that promote local entrepreneurship, agricultural productivity, and industrial growth.
Healthcare and Education: Access to quality healthcare and education remains a critical issue in Sierra Leone. The APC must present a clear plan for strengthening these sectors, ensuring that every Sierra Leonean has the opportunity to live a healthy life and pursue an education that prepares them for the future.
Infrastructure Development: The APC should also focus on infrastructure development, particularly in rural areas. Roads, bridges, and reliable electricity are essential for economic growth and development. The APC must advocate for investment in infrastructure that will connect communities and facilitate commerce.
The 2028 general elections are a turning point for the APC. After years of opposition, the party has the opportunity to present itself as a credible alternative to the SLPP. But to do so, the APC must step up its game, embracing internal reform, engaging with the grassroots, and offering a bold vision for Sierra Leone’s future. The people of Sierra Leone are hungry for change. It is up to the APC to prove that it is the party that can deliver that change. By uniting its ranks, investing in new leadership, and focusing on the issues that matter most to the people, the APC can reclaim its place as the party of progress and hope.