By Janet A. Sesay
Bai Mamoud Bangura, a 2028 presidential aspirant of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party, has held his second Iftar (Breaking of Fast) conference bringing together community members, various organizations, and party supporters to promote peace and unity.
The Iftar conference took place on Wednesday, 11th March, 2026 at the Freetown City Hall in Freetown.
In his address, Bangura thanked attendees for honoring his invitation, noting that the gathering was organized to give thanks to Allah for His blessings. He recalled that during last year’s Iftar conference he did not have the opportunity to fully address his supporters, but said that through faith he was later reunited with his people to share a common vision for the country.
He explained that while he served as National Organizing Secretary of the APC during last year’s conference, he now attends this year’s event as an aspiring flagbearer and presidential hopeful of the Republic of Sierra Leone, guided by faith and a vision for national redemption, change, and prayer.
Bangura stated that in recent years the patience of APC members and the people of Sierra Leone has been tested. He noted that the party has lost several loyal members who died while supporting its cause, mentioning names such as Umaru, Sheku Tejan, Amadu Keita, and Kadie of Lungi.
He also said the party leadership is currently facing challenges, noting that former APC Chairman and Leader Ernest Bai Koroma and the current National Chairman and Leader Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray are both out of the country for medical reasons and need prayers.
According to Bangura, many Sierra Leoneans are currently struggling due to the high cost of living, injustice, energy shortages, and food challenges, which he described as some of the negative outcomes affecting the country’s democracy.
He emphasized that despite these challenges, APC supporters will remain steadfast, stating that the trials they face serve as a reminder to young people of their responsibility to work towards change in Sierra Leone.
Bangura further stated that real change will come through the energy of young people combined with strong faith and prayer.
He also referenced the imprisonment of APC Secretary General Lansana Dumbuya, claiming that he was jailed for standing up for the truth.
Bangura explained that the purpose of the conference was not only to discuss visions for the country but to encourage faith and prayer as essential tools for national transformation.
He noted that with only about ten days remaining in the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims are seeking forgiveness from Allah and praying for goodness, strength, and unity. He added that such prayers are also directed at addressing human rights concerns and helping lift the country out of poverty.
Bangura said he organized the conference to promote the vision and participation of young people in shaping the future of Sierra Leone. He stressed that what Allah has destined cannot be changed by anyone.
He concluded by saying leadership is not about magic or money, but about service and commitment, expressing confidence that he would deliver for the people if he becomes the next APC flagbearer and President of Sierra Leone.
He prayed that Allah grants him the wisdom and strength to deliver justice and address the challenges facing the people.
The event concluded with lectures from different Imams who educated attendees on the significance of Ramadan and the responsibilities of Muslims during the Holy Month.