Every tick of the clock and every passing day take Sierra Leone close to the 2028 election which every Sierra Leonean eagerly looks forward to.
As the presidential election draws close, the opposition, All People’s Congress’ (APC’s) biggest headache is the decision to choose a credible, result-oriented and quality candidate who will successfully take on the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in the polls.
The ruling party, judged by its actions, is determined for a third term, a plan that has prompted the emergence of countless flag-bearer aspirants to stop the bid.
But, one and only one candidate, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura is better placed to achieve such objective owing to the possession of qualities rarely seen in any other flag-bearer aspirant. He is the lead candidate for APC’s flag, and he leads the way because he knows the way.
To bolster his political project in Sierra Leone, he has created and led the Dr. Ibrahim Bangura (DIB) Movement within the APC.
The qualities of academia, peace and calm demeanour, kindness, advocacy and fundraising skills, and above all, international clout and contact place him in a class of his own.
Who is Dr. Ibrahim Bangura?
In answering this question, one would expect a recitation of academic degrees to Dr. Ibrahim Bangura’s credit, but this is not the case here.
A quiet observer and analyst sums up Dr. Bangura’s personality in five major characteristics: the quiet storm that reshapes APC’s landscape, a demenour that disarms, a messenger that transcends partisanship, a strategist, the best candidate and the making of a good President.
As the quiet storm that reshapes APC’s landscape, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura has brought the party again to public attention not for the fractious infighting or the predictable threats of withdrawal from governance, but for a pure political culture which he is building within the party.
The field is crowded as expected, and it is a tapestry of the experienced, the affluent and the young, and there are those who rely on war chests and well-oiled political machines. Others beat the tribal drum with the usual rhythm hoping to rally their base, and there is Dr. Ibrahim Bangura who is in constant touch with everyone regardless of tribe, region, place of origin, political affiliation among others.
As a demeanour that disarms means Dr. Bangura’s cool and calm personality endears him to everyone, and many APC members have positively refined their attitudinal and behavioural disposition for his sake.
He has thrown himself into what can only be described as a costly minefield.
Politics in Sierra Leone is not for the faint-hearted, but for the bold and prudent.
Dr. Bangura navigates it with integrity that is rare and an ingenuity and serenity that is almost alien to APC’s ranks.
Where others shout, he speaks, where others threaten, he persuades and where others rely on the old playbook of regionalism and political patronage, he has chosen a different path; the path of inclusivity for national unity.
As a strategist of precision, he is popularly known for being methodical in his approach to every issue including politics. While his contemporaries are flaunting wealth, flashing connections, leaning heavily on ethnicity, Dr. Bangura has been quietly weaving his name into the hearts of the people of Sierra Leone.
His strategy is devoid of noise but packed with laser-like precision, and he is not campaigning in the traditional sense but connecting to the people.
As a Messenger that transcends partisanship, Dr. Bangura possesses the ability to craft messages that penetrate not only the APC base but also appeal to the liberal minds of the SLPP.
In a deeply polarised political environment, the possession and manifestation of such quality is no mean feat. He speaks to aspirations not affiliations, he talks about the future and not just the past and present, he offers ideas and not identity.
This cross-cutting appeal is not accidental: it is the product of tact, wit and guile, qualities that cannot be taken away from him.
In a two-party system where elections are often won and lost on the margins, a candidate who can pull votes from across the aisle is not just an asset but a game-changer.
The making a good President, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura has more than what many would call connections and deep pockets. He has vision, emotional intelligence and strategic thinking and the ability to unite a fractured nation. It calls for a steady hand in times of crisis and cool head in the heat of partisan welfare.
At the moment, he is best for the party’s flag because he offers APC a chance to rebrand, put the past behind and presents a new face to the electorate. He brings on board those who feel alienated by the old guards. He offers what to compete with others not only in the APC strongholds but also in the so-called swing constituencies where elections are truly decided.
The other candidates have their strengths, some have experience, others have resources and a few have political muscles, but Dr. Ibrahim Bangura has something they cannot buy or manufacture: authenticity enveloped in intellect and ambition tempered with serenity.
Dr. Bangura possesses these qualities in abundance, and his calm is not passivity, it is control, his quietness is not weakness, it is confidence and his tact is not compromise, it is wisdom.
Academic Training, International Experience And Committed Leadership
In today’s world or in contemporary societies like Sierra Leone, academia really matters if the country’s current situation is to be changed for the better.
Sierra Leone faces multi-faceted socio-economic and political challenges that call for a man with the right knowledge, skills and attitude to make Sierra Leone comfortable for all Sierra Leoneans.
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura’s academic training and international experience form a significant part of his public profile.
He is widely regarded as a highly accomplished academic with global exposure, bringing comparative perspectives, international networks and modern administrative practices that contribute to national development.
UNESCO report, 2025 holds that countries with high levels of internationally trained leadership demonstrate improved governance outcomes particularly in public health and education sectors, and Dr. Bangura’s academic credentials fit into such global notion.
Almost invariably, World Bank’s 2023 on Sierra Leone Economic Update indicates that infrastructure gaps cost the economy an estimated 2-3% GDP annually.
It is therefore prudently hoped that there will be a positive and fundamental turning point when Dr. Ibrahim Bangura takes the driving seat.
At the moment, Sierra Leone is a nation that yearns for committed leadership and the right answer will be provided if Dr. Bangura is voted in.
Sierra Leone, a country of resilience, a land where the echoes of history meet the aspirations of tomorrow. Its people, from the bustling Streets of Freetown to the quiet villages of Koinadugu, carry with them a spirit that refuses to be broken.
They yearn not only for progress but also leadership that listens, understands and acts with prudence and integrity.
Much will not be said about his academic achievements lest it misconstrued for other thing else, but by virtue of his academic training and accomplishments, he is a man for the moment, and in future, he will be man of all seasons if he is entrusted with the party’s leadership and the nation’s presidency. One can tell a ripe corn by its looks.
The minds of the people today are clear: they want leaders who rise above division, who place the country before self and who understand that true power lies in uplifting others.
What makes this moment unique, is the call for leadership that is deeply necessary-leadership that values knowledge as much as courage, humility as much as strength. Judged by his moves ahead of the presidency, Dr. Bangura’s example challenges every aspirant to think differently and to see leadership not as competition among rival forces but positive collaboration for the common good.
This is Sierra Leone where the people dream of a country where education fuels innovation, where justice is more than a word, and where every citizen feels valued. Such vision calls for leaders who are prepared not just to govern but serves with wisdom and compassion, and Dr. Bangura readily answers that call.
In the hearts of Sierra Leoneans, the message is simple yet profound: the time has come for leadership that surprises with its sincerity and inspires with its vision.
Clean Hands: High Degree Of Probity, And Integrity
It goes without saying that Sierra Leone currently needs a leader with clean hands marked by high degree of probity and integrity to re-write the country’s narrative on the global stage.
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura is such a leader as he comes with a clean and unblemished record on the stage of politics, and ready to serve his people.
In his national and international life, Dr. Bangura has never been accused of any wrong let alone convicted of one, a quality that will aid him to smoothly navigate Sierra Leone’s complex political terrain.
For APC members, supporters and sympathisers as well as Sierra Leoneans concerned about good governance and living standards, it is necessary to recall that the Commissions of Inquiry (CoI) have played a major role in the country’s recent political discourse.
Several opposition political figures were named in the CoI reports and same time slammed with corruption and money-laundering charges
Although many have contested the findings in the law courts, these inquiries continue to influence APC’s internal dynamics and public perception.
At the moment, the vast majority of APC members believe that internal cohesion is essential particularly in navigating what they view as politicised judicial environment worsened by the lingering effects of the CoI.
Indeed, social and political analysts often note that political reconciliation requires acknowledging grievances while maintaining respect among party members especially given the widespread belief within the APC that the CoI process was politically motivated.
Build Bridges Through Love For Peace, Unity And National Cohesion
Currently, Sierra Leone is sharply divided along political, tribal and regional lines, a situation that is most often ignited by politicians who send out hate and inflammatory messages to score political points.
Such messages often result into a situation where members and supporters of Sierra Leone’s two main political parties (SLPP and APC) do not see eye to eye even on issues of national development.
Such politicians subscribe to the notion that they would evade proper scrutiny and get majority votes only when they divide the people who they find extremely difficult to unite after they win elections become.
But, Dr. Bangura chooses a different path as he is a true unifier, and Sierra Leone needs him to move from disunity to unity and cohesion.
His theme of ‘Heal, Unite and Build Bridges’ resonates with Sierra Leone’s current political climate hallmarked by polarisation, volatility and fragility.
Dr. Bangura’s political strategy rises above ethno-regional politics which has beclouded Sierra Leone’s political landscape for decades.
He started his campaign of peace and national unity in Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown where he called on APC stalwarts, members, supporters and sympathisers to accept and embrace peace and to relate well to other members of political parties.
Dr. Bangura believes that APC’s internal election should enhance unity, deepens democratic principles and strengthens respect for one another as comrades sharing one goal: the goal of winning an election and exercising control over the machinery of government within the framework of fairness and honesty.
Healthy debate and competition, he says, are natural in every democratic process, but such engagements should remain within the bounds of civility, respect and constructiveness.
His note of caution is relevant to APC, a party whose most of its members and supporters have indulged in unnecessary confrontation marked by verbal attacks directed at fellow supporters of other candidates.
Such move does not reflect the values for which the party stands for.
His Movement therefore urges all APC members and supporters to avoid attacking, insulting or provoking fellow party members and members of other political parties whether in person, meetings or on social media.
He entreated party members to stay calm and disciplined throughout the democratic process and remember that, after the contest, they remain members of one party united by a shared vision and responsibility to the people they serve.
The supporters are also called upon to promote the preferred candidates through ideas, policies and positive engagements instead of hostility and divisions. Dr. Bangura makes such appeals because he believes that APC’s strength lies in the ability to compete with dignity and emerge from the process as a force more united than ever.
The message of unity does not stop in Freetown; it was taken to several parts of Sierra Leone particularly in the South-East regions.
From 23rd to 25th March, this year, Dr. Bangura embarked on a tour of unity and national cohesion from North-West to South-East regions of Sierra Leone.
The tour of unity reached Kailahun, Kenema, Pujehun, Bo and Moyamba districts, and anchored on engagement with grassroot supporters for national and party cohesion.
In Kailahun, Dr. Bangura met with community stakeholders, youth leaders and APC members, supporters and symapthisers entreating them to embrace unity for the peace, security and stability of the nation.
The meeting brought together newly elected ward chairmen, and women, constituency executives including Moiwo Maya Kaikai, the Eastern region APC chiarman.
In his address to the attendees, Mr. Kaikai commended the people for such a huge turnout, and also re-echoed the message of unity and cooperation preached by Dr. Bangura.
Walking along the same path, a popular and firebrand politician, Diana Konomanyi pledged her support to Dr. Bangura and urged party delegates and members to prioritise quality leadership and capacity to deliver with humility when making a choice for the party’s flag-bearer.
Dr. Bangura recaps his message by calling on APC members to hold themselves in unison and avoid camps and divisions which may undermine the party’s chances to win the 2028 and other future elections.
Continuing his message of unity, Dr. Bangura also called on his comrades to prioritise collective goals over personal ambitions stressing that discipline and cooperation remains the bedrock of any political success.
Kailahun district, the starting point of Sierra Leone’s civil war (1991-2002) is key to the tour.
It was in Bomaru town in Kailahun district that the first shot was fired on 23rd March, 1991 marking the beginning of an armed struggle that claimed the lives of thousands of Sierra Leoneans.
Touched by this tragic episode, Dr. Bangura requested the attendees to observe a moment of silence in remembrance of Sierra Leonean brothers and sisters who succumbed to the scourge of war.
Dr, Bangura’s familiarity with Kailahun district came as a result of an academic research focusing on ‘Women in Peace Building’ which he undertook several years ago.
Kailahun, he says, has a “special place” in his heart and commended APC members and supporters in that part of the country for their dedication to the party in a spirit of brotherhood and togetherness.
He paid special attention to the immense contributions, sacrifices, loyalty and commitment to the party in such a trying time.
He urged them to stay faithful to the cause and remained disciplined and united for APC’s victory in the 2028 election.
In Kenema and Pujehun districts, Dr. Bangura still continued his move for unity as his discussion with constituency leaders focused on strengthening party structures at the grassroot level.
His interaction with the stakeholders indicates the importance of inclusivity and active participation of members particularly the youth, based on the notion that a united and organised party is essential for regaining political momentum.
The message of unity in Kenema and other Eastern districts is not different from that of the Southern capital, Bo.
Here, Dr. Bangura’s message transcends party lines, as he advocated national unity and responsible leadership for a prosperous nation.
He has positioned himself as a political figure who can nip internal rifts in the bud and promote a vision of peace and cohesion across Sierra Leone.
The tour of unity ended in the Southern district of Moyamba, another traditional APC stronghold where he also appealed for unity, solidarity and cohesion within the party.
He encouraged APC members to do away with unnecessary conflicts, respect internal democratic processes and work collectively towards a shared future.
His closing remarks reinforced the objective of building a stronger and more united APC to meet the challenges of the time.
By holding direct and frank discussions with party supporters across multiple districts, Dr. Bangura does not only strengthen his connection with the grassroot but also reaffirms the importance of unity to the APC, a party that prepares to enter a critical political journey.
No gainsaying that the tour represents a prudent political strategy to take APC to every corner of Sierra Leone while addressing the party’s internal disunity. Despite any contrary view, South-Easterners are known for one quality-friendship.
The kind of reception offered to Dr. Bangura during his tour of unity in the South-East regions still keeps alive the cherished memory of the warmth and friendliness of South-easterners.
The message of unity delivered from Kailahun to Moyamba districts remains consistent and tied to the notion that only a united APC can secure a successful political future.
Offering Donations and Building Fund Raising Strategies For The Party
Current financial indicators show that APC has little in its coffers to fund nationwide democratic processes and other projects owing to lawsuits, confiscation of assets and freezing of accounts owing to probes for corruption and money laundering offences compounded by adverse findings and recommendations of the defunct CoI.
Such situation calls for men and women with helping hands to contribute to the party’s sound financial standing since possession of resources is a feature that is key to any viable political entity.
Dr. Bangura has been walking towards such direction evidenced by his magnanimity to the party on whose ticket he strives to rise to prominence.
Recently, Dr. Bangura donated motor cycles to 11 constituency chairladies in Kenema district.
The donation took place during his engagement with APC members and supporters.
Addressing an enthusiastic crowd of APC members, supporters and sympathisers, Dr. Bangura made it clear that his mission went beyond symbolic gestures, emphasising practical support for women leaders who play critical roles in politics and community development projects.
In a related development, Dr. Bangura also offered 150 (50kg) bags of rice to mosques and churches at three wards in Constituency 124 during the period of Ramadan and Lent. Such donation which is no mean feat comes on time.
The timely intervention is aimed at supporting low income earners and the less privileged and to strengthen community welfare during a period of deep spiritual reflection.
The donation also stands as a reminder that true leadership is rooted in compassion, service and the willingness to stand with the people in times of need.
By reaching out to Muslims and Christian communities, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura continues to demonstrate an inclusive leadership style that respects and uplifts all faiths.
The jamaats and the congregations received the gesture with pride and dignity noting that it would ease the economic burden of their families while fostering a spirit of togetherness across religious lines.
Dr. Bangura also lent a helping hand to Sierra Leoneans trapped and stranded in Kuwait as a result of the ongoing US-Iran war.
He donated US$2, 000 for immediate relief, channeling the funds through Alusine Kargbo, the APC Coordinator in Kuwait. The money was used to provide food, shelter and urgent assistance to the stranded victims who are in dire straits in a country thousands of miles away from home.
It is axiomatic that the current conflict in the Middle East has left Sierra Leonean immigrants in Kuwait traumatised, with many losing their jobs, shelter and access to basic necessities.
As a result of the security crisis, families remain separated and uncertainty looms over their future.
While in Kuwait, a Sierra Leonean domestic worker shared her ordeal, and expressed thanks to Dr. Bangura.
She said “we are living in fear every day, some of us have lost our jobs, we cannot return home, and we feel abandoned. But, the support gives us hope that we are not forgotten.”
Another immigrant Sierra Leonean worker, echoed Mariatu’s sentiments as he narrated that “the conflict has made life unbearable, but we are grateful to Dr. Ibrahim Bangura for his assistance. It shows that someone cares about our struggles.”
In his statement accompanying the donation, Dr. Bangura offered words of consolation and bold assurance.
“My heart goes out to every Sierra Leonean enduring hardship in Kuwait. You are not forgotten. This support is a small step to ease your suffering, but my commitment is far greater. I assure you that when I become President, no Sierra Leonean will ever feel the need to seek greener pastures abroad. Together, we will build a nation where opportunity, dignity and prosperity are found at home,” he assured the Kuwait victims.
It does not mean he forgets other Sierra Leoneans held up in several countries in the Middle East, but step by step, he will reach there.
Dr. Bangura has been hailed by several Sierra Leoneans for being compassionate and politically symbolic.
Analysts note that Dr. Bangura’s intervention underscores his campaign’s emphasis on self-reliance, accountability and inclusive development.
The nod of thanks still continues as the APC Coordinator in Kuwait praised Dr. Bangura’s magnanimity to the victims of war.
Kargbo says “this donation is timely and impactful. It will help our brothers and sisters here who are struggling to survive. More importantly, it reminds us that Sierra Leone’s leadership is thinking about us even in this difficult time.”
As the APC gears up for its National Delegates’ Conference, Dr. Bangura’s humanitarian outreach is seen as a blend of empathy and foresight.
For the stranded Sierra Leoneans in Kuwait, the financial gift offers immediate respite while his words of assurance provide long-term hope for a future in which migration will no longer be a necessity but choice.
As earlier stated that APC has lost too much to lawsuits and corruption cases, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura is working hard to fill the party’s coffers with diaspora engagement being one of his key strategies.
Quite recently, he engaged diasporans in the United Kingdom, a move that formed part of the preparations of the 3rd edition of the APC Diaspora Young Congress Fundraising and Celebration Night which took place last month.
The meeting held on a foreign soil by Dr. Bangura and other senior party members represents another step in strengthening communication and collaboration within the APC.
The engagement was attended by several notable APC personalities who contribute to the party’s organisational strength across different regions and diaspora structures.
Among those present were Sylvester Sheku Suaray popularly known as Triple-S, the APC Deputy Southern Regional Chairperson, Khalid Kamara, The APC UK & Ireland District Organising Secretary, Comrade Billard and other respected party stakeholders.
The APC Diaspora Young Congress Leader, Mustapha Azick Conteh attended the ceremony which was an important platform for strengthening diaspora support, mobilising resources and reinforcing party unity among APC members abroad.
Senior APC members and flag-bearer hopefuls also supported Dr. Ibrahim Bangura’s engagement with members of the diaspora.
As flag-bearer aspirants, Dr. Bangura’s presence and participation in the diaspora engagement underscored the importance of inclusive consultations among party stakeholders as the APC continues internal discussions on leadership, strategy and future electoral prospects.
During the engagement, other strong APC members utilised the golden opportunity to extend ongoing consultations with diaspora stakeholders, exchanging views on party organisation, unity and the strategic direction required to strengthen the APC’s structures within Sierra Leone and across its global networks. Dr. Bangura’s engagement with APC members residing outside Sierra Leone highlighted the growing importance of the APC diaspora community as a key partner in party mobilisation, strategic dialogue and resource generation.
By engaging flag-bearer aspirants and grassroot organisers abroad, leaders such as Kamara-Taylor continue to reinforce the party’s tradition of broad consultations and inclusive participation into the party’s affairs regardless of distance.
Such consultations remain vital in building unity, consensus and strategic positioning of the party for future political process.
Dr. Bangura is sure to take those engagements in other parts of the world, and hope of success stories blossoms among APC members, supporters and symapthisers.
Women’s Empowerment
The 2015 National Census indicates that Sierra Leone has more women than men.
The statistics show that women account for 52% leaving the 48% for men, and such wide female-male disparity in population calls for the empowerment of women and girls if Sierra Leone is to rise from the doldrums of poverty and under-development.
Such notion resonates with Dr. Bangura’s big plan to raise the status of women in several fields with quality education being one of the main tools.
He holds the view that women’s empowerment in politics, commerce and education and other walks of life remains a significant national issue.
Civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations and media institutions often highlight progress, but many observers argue the reality for women remains difficult.
Sierra Leone’s Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act, 2022 provides for a minimum 30% representation of women in leadership roles.
The World Bank Reports that increasing women’s participation in the economy can raise national productivity by up to 20%, yet the country continues to encounter setbacks in its effort to expand opportunities for women in socio-economic and political spheres.
Dr. Bangura is also of the firm conviction that education is key to the empowerment project of women and girls in Sierra Leone.
He believes that expanding educational opportunities for women and girls is linked to low maternal mortality, high household incomes and strong civic participation.
The Free Quality Education project has tremendously increased access to education for more than two million (2, 000, 000) children in Sierra Leone as shown by MBSSE (Ministry of Basic and Senior School Education) records.
However, concerns remain about the quality of Education, particularly funding gaps which impact long-term sustainability.
Critics argue that the program was launched without a clear financing strategy resulting on heavy reliance on donor support.
In his analysis about the Free Healthcare Initiative, the lead APC flag-bearer sees healthcare for pregnant women, lactating mothers and under-five children as a central component of national social policy.
UNICEF reports indicate that investment in maternal and child health could reduce preventable deaths by up to 30% over the next decade.
Discussions about healthcare delivery often focus on funding, implementation and long-term planning, themes that Dr. Bangura frequently addresses in his public engagements.
As Sierra Leone’s population slowly ages, conversations around pension reform and elderly care have become increasingly important.
WHO data shows that life expectancy in Sierra Leone has risen steadily creating a growing need for structured medical and social support systems for retirees.
Policy makers and stakeholders within the Dr. Bangura campaign team continue to explore strategies to strengthen healthcare for vulnerable populations and provide social protection for the ageing population.
Building A Crime-Free Society
The prevention of crime is inextricably linked to national development since investors fear to plough their resources in a country that is replete with crime.
Such crimes as frauds, corruption and money laundering, robberies, murders and trafficking in persons and narcotics weaken the zeal of investors.
Drug trafficking and substance abuse particularly the rise of synthetic drugs have become a major national concern.
UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime) report, 2023 noted that that there was an increase in trafficking routes in West Africa, with the youth, most times, falling prey to traffickers.
Public health experts emphasise that effective drug -control strategies require prevention, rehabilitation and community-based support systems. These challenges are compounded by the presence of international criminal networks and drug barons operating in Sierra Leone.
Under Dr. Bangura’s leadership, such crime incidents will be trampled in the dust of history, underscoring the need for a reformed police service. He believes that the real test of police efficiency is not the visible display of arms and ammunition on the streets but the absence of crime and disorder in society.
End Electoral Malpractices
Electoral irregularities, in no uncertain terms, undermine credibility and acceptance of an electoral outcome by political parties and the country at large.
To a large extent, electoral malpractices also derails democracy, and most times, perpetuated by politicians who believe that, at all cost, they should emerge as winners.
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura will create a fundamental turning point this time by creating a framework for correcting the mistakes of the past.
During his recent tour to the South-East regions, he called on party stakeholders, while congratulating winners to refrain from electoral malpractices and remain united ahead of future internal elections.
He expressed confidence that the DIB Movement would produce APC’s next flag-bearer and the country’s President, inviting supporters in Kenema district to pay attention to what he referred to as a “history-making journey.”
Meanwhile, in Pujehun, Dr. Bangura struck a more reflective tone, emphasising his roots within the APC. “I am a son of the APC, born and bred within the party,” he said, referencing his father, M.L. Babgura, who is a founding and reverred figure in the party’s Youth League.
Here, he also commended local party leadership, particularly the District Chairman, Amadu Sesay aka Dr. Woo for loyalty and service noting that his decision to visit Pujehun is a deliberate recognition of the district’s contribution to the party.
Advocacy For The restoration Of Freedom For APC Detainees
Advocacy and sometimes pleas for clemency and compassion are the only options available to the opposition for those APC members who come into conflict with the law.
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura demonstrated his advocacy skills following the arrest and detention of the party’s National Secretray-General, Lansana Dumbuya and Zainab Sheriff over alleged cyber crimes against the presidency.
In his appeal for the restoration of Dumbuya’s freedom, Dr. Bangura took a strong stance by stating that “I am deeply concerned about the detention of Lansana Dumbuya, the National Secretary-General of the All People’s Congress…following a brief appearance at a magistrate’s court in Freetown. His bail denial and subsequent remand at Pa Demba Road Correctional Centre follows his earlier invitation and a day-long detention on 5th February, 2026 at the Criminal Investigation Department of the Sierra Leone Police.”
It is against this backdrop that the lead APC flag-bearer aspirant called for bail for the party’s scribe and the other detainee, Zainab since the offences are bailable.
“In this spirit, I advocate the fair and lawful application of bail in line with established legal principles and respect for the constitutional rights of all citizens,” Dr. Bangura appealed, and the result is positive.
The APC scribe is now seeing the light of day following a bail that was granted to him by the court, and the release could be partly credited to Dr. Bangura’s advocacy and appeals for freedom and fairness.
Although Dumbuya is out, Dr. Bangura still insists on his advocacy for the freedom of other APC detainees, and a bright light is shining at the end of the tunnel.
He further entreated stakeholders to come together in total support of APC regardless of any difference since the party’s interest and survival must always remain a top priority.
He said such moment called for reflection, restraint and renewed commitment to the democratic values that unite Sierra Leone whose progress depends on collective dedication to justice, peace and reconciliation.
In his press statement, Dr. Bangura emphasised the importance of tolerance, restraint and protection of democratic freedoms and rights.
It is therefore a concern that this development stems from the same alleged offence for which the party has been fined by the Political Parties Regulation Commission, and for which the Secretary-General faces three-count charges.
The situation also raises broad concerns about fairness and the preservation of the democratic space in Sierra Leone.
Looking back at the past, Dr. Bangura further notes that Sierra Leone’s history and the lessons from the TRC (Truth and Reconciliation Commission) report, 2004 reminds us that peace and stability relies on tolerance, fairness and strong democratic institutions.
It must be noted here in brief that these promises constitute the hope of Sierra Leone; a nation that aspires rapid development and international competitiveness.
Dr. Bangura also appears willing to pursue them for the common good because it is no vain hope but a hope that is certain.
It is the hope which a 17th-century slave singing songs of freedom that one day slavery would come to an end; it has come to pass since slavery is no more part of civilised nations.
It is also the hope of a Sierra Leonean kid from a deprived home that society has a place for him and his name would one day enter the national honour roll as long as he acquires the right education. Sierra Leone’s history is replete with examples in every period in which men have risen from rags to riches because societies create such platforms.
That is the hope Dr. Bangura represents, projects and keeps that hope alive at all times.
At this juncture, APC must ask itself quite a difficult and thought-provoking question: Do they want to win back State House or Do they want to win the people? If the answer correlates to the latter, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura is their best choice for 2028.