Amid ongoing discussions about the unity and future leadership of Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), veteran politician Hon. Ibrahim Ben Kargbo has publicly endorsed Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah—popularly known as “Chericoco”—as a Presidential Contender, citing his steady political growth, national appeal, and long-standing commitment to the APC party and his adherence to democratic values.
Writing in widely circulated “New Citizen Tolongbo” Newspaper on Monday, 23rd June instant, Hon. Kargbo described Hon. Chernor Bah as “a product of deliberate mentorship and institutional uplifting and opportunity within the APC”, which he noted has yielded significant dividends, particularly in empowering young leaders. “The opportunity given to Chernor Maju Bah to rapidly grow within Sierra Leone’s largest political party is one of the best decisions the APC has made,” he wrote.
Hon. Ibrahim Ben Kargbo, a long-time mentor to Bah, praised his protégé’s character and work ethic, recounting his early life in Brookfields, Freetown, and his connections to the Mapaki Chiefdom in Bombali District. “He was always humble, focused, and determined—even as a young man,” Kargbo mentioned. “He took his education seriously and was known among his peers at St. Edward’s Secondary School and later at Fourah Bay College as a natural leader.”
After earning his law degree and being called to the Bar, Chernor Maju Bah quickly distinguished himself as a respected legal practitioner. But it was in politics that he gained national prominence. According to I.B. Kargbo, Bah entered the political arena with a deep sense of national duty, consistently rejecting tribal or regional rhetoric in favour of unity and inclusivity.
Bah has served three consecutive terms in Parliament representing constituencies in the Western Area. He earned a reputation as a consensus-builder, respected by both APC members and MPs across party lines, including those from the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). His tenure as Deputy Speaker of Parliament—achieved at a relatively young age—was marked by professionalism and bipartisan respect.
In 2018, Bah was selected as the APC’s vice-presidential candidate, a move that temporarily interrupted his role in Parliament but did not end his legislative career. After the elections, he resumed his seat and was later appointed as Leader of the APC in Parliament, becoming the official Minority Leader. His leadership in opposition, Kargbo pointed out, was particularly significant during a time of political turbulence marked by the use of state institutions to challenge opposition strength.
Despite these challenges, Bah was credited with uniting APC MPs and maintaining a strong opposition presence in Parliament. This leadership role, combined with his grassroots popularity and recognition among party elites, led to his re-nomination as running mate to the APC’s 2023 Presidential Flagbearer.
As Bah this time round seeks the top-most position of Flagbearer of the APC and, ultimately, the presidency, his political experience stands as a major asset. “His track record—both when the APC was in power and now in opposition—makes him the most politically seasoned contender in the race,” Kargbo asserted.
In addition to his political credentials, Bah’s personal life is also seen as a source of strength. His wife, Hawa Bah, has been a quiet but steadfast supporter throughout his political journey. “If he ascends to the presidency, Madam Hawa Bah will be a formidable asset, for she is gracious, humble, and politically aware,” Kargbo disclosed.
With national elections on the horizon and internal party decisions looming, all eyes within the APC and across the political landscape are now on Chericoco, whose blend of youthfulness, experience, humility, and leadership style is second to none in this vast array of interests to lead the APC party and to become President of Sierra Leone.