By Sylvester Samai
As Sierra Leone faces economic stagnation, social unrest, and governance challenges, the All People’s Congress (APC) finds itself in a pivotal position to offer a compelling alternative in the 2028 general elections. However, the party must move beyond merely capitalizing on the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP)’s failures. To inspire confidence, the APC must present a clear vision, champion transformative policies, and reconnect with the grassroots while shedding past perceptions of mismanagement. Here’s a roadmap for how the APC can ensure a decisive victory in 2028.
The APC’s first task is to rebuild trust with the Sierra Leonean people. During its time in governance, criticisms of corruption, inefficiency, and nepotism created a credibility gap. This reputation must be addressed head-on.
Transparent Leadership: The APC should prioritize internal reforms, ensuring that candidates for leadership roles are selected transparently. Leaders with a proven track record of integrity, competence, and service should be at the forefront.
Accountability Pledge: The party must demonstrate that it has learned from its past mistakes by committing to greater accountability. This includes proposing stricter anti-corruption mechanisms and pledging to uphold them when in power.
By emphasizing ethical governance, the APC can project itself as a reformed and credible alternative.
The SLPP government under President Bio has struggled to address Sierra Leone’s pressing economic challenges, from rampant unemployment to inflation and food insecurity. The APC must present a bold and actionable economic plan that resonates with ordinary Sierra Leoneans.
Job Creation: The APC should focus on job creation through industrialization, small-business development, and youth empowerment programs. This should include specific plans for sectors like agriculture, mining, and technology.
Agriculture as a Cornerstone: Given the failure of initiatives like “Feed Salone,” the APC must position agriculture as a national priority. This includes subsidies for farmers, modernizing farming techniques, and building storage and distribution networks.
Infrastructure Development: A comprehensive infrastructure plan focusing on roads, bridges, and energy should be unveiled. This would not only improve the quality of life but also attract foreign investment. Such a visionary economic agenda can address the pressing concerns of Sierra Leoneans while showcasing the APC’s ability to lead.
President Bio’s flagship Free Quality Education initiative has been criticized for its inadequacies, including poor infrastructure and under-resourced schools. Meanwhile, the healthcare sector is plagued by underfunding and mismanagement. The APC can present itself as the party of solutions in these areas.
Education Reform: The APC should propose reforms that prioritize teacher training, modern curricula, and school infrastructure improvements. Scholarships and vocational training should also be expanded to create a workforce ready for the 21st century.
Universal Healthcare: Proposals for universal healthcare access, including better-equipped hospitals, fair compensation for medical staff, and public health awareness campaigns, can win public support. By emphasizing social investments, the APC can capture the aspirations of Sierra Leoneans who feel neglected under the current regime. A major failing of both the APC and SLPP has been their detachment from the daily struggles of the average Sierra Leonean. The APC must actively engage with the grassroots to regain its standing as a people-centered party.
Community Dialogues: Regular town hall meetings and dialogues with communities across the country can help the APC understand local needs and build rapport.
Empowering Women and Youth: The party should actively promote inclusivity by empowering women and youth to take on leadership roles. Women and youth form a significant voting bloc, and their support will be crucial in 2028.
Sierra Leone has endured years of political division along tribal and regional lines, often exacerbated by both major parties. The APC must commit to being a unifying force that prioritizes national cohesion over partisanship. National Unity Agenda: The APC should articulate policies that promote equal representation and opportunity for all regions, tribes, and communities. Reconciliation Efforts: A commitment to national reconciliation, including acknowledging past mistakes, can help heal divisions and foster trust. A unifying message can differentiate the APC as a forward-looking party focused on collective progress. The digital age has transformed political campaigns worldwide, and the APC must embrace modern tools and strategies to reach voters effectively.
Digital Outreach: Social media, SMS campaigns, and online platforms can be used to communicate the APC’s vision directly to the youth and urban populations. Data-Driven Campaigning: By using data analytics, the APC can identify voter concerns, track its campaign’s effectiveness, and adapt its strategies accordingly.
Public Relations: A dedicated team should handle public relations to ensure the APC’s message remains consistent, impactful, and widely disseminated. A tech-savvy campaign will allow the APC to connect with younger voters and urban constituencies effectively. While it is crucial to highlight the failures of the SLPP—such as corruption, rising cost of living, and unfulfilled promises—the APC must not rely solely on criticism. Sierra Leoneans are seeking solutions, not just blame.
Instead of excessive mudslinging, the APC should juxtapose the SLPP’s failures with its own actionable plans. This balanced approach will resonate better with voters. To broaden its appeal, the APC must forge strategic alliances with smaller parties, civil society groups, and influential non-political figures. These partnerships can expand the APC’s reach and lend credibility to its campaign. Coalitions for Change: Building coalitions with like-minded groups can unify efforts to address common national issues.
International Engagement: The APC must also present itself as capable of fostering strong international partnerships, particularly in areas like trade, development aid, and investment.
The 2028 elections present a golden opportunity for the APC to reclaim leadership and steer Sierra Leone towards progress. However, this requires more than just exploiting SLPP missteps—it demands a transformative agenda that addresses the aspirations of Sierra Leoneans.
By rebuilding trust, proposing visionary policies, engaging with the grassroots, and promoting national unity, the APC can emerge as the party of hope and renewal. With a disciplined campaign and a clear focus on solutions, the APC can convincingly demonstrate that it is the best choice to lead Sierra Leone into a brighter future.
The APC’s path to victory lies not in the shadows of criticism but in the light of ambition, unity, and service. In 2028, Sierra Leoneans deserve nothing less.