As Sierra Leone’s 2028 general elections draw nearer, the nation’s major political players are already engaged in subtle, and at times aggressive, groundwork to seize power. Among them, the All People’s Congress (APC) stands out — not only because of its formidable history in Sierra Leonean politics but also because of the growing question looming over its current state: Is the APC truly prepared for 2028? The answer is far from straightforward. While the party boasts loyal grassroots support and a legacy of national governance, it is also haunted by internal divisions, leadership crises, and an urgent need to redefine its identity in a rapidly evolving political climate.
The APC is no stranger to power. It has ruled Sierra Leone for decades, with significant stretches of governance that left lasting marks — both positive and negative — on the country’s political and socioeconomic landscape. Its last administration, under President Ernest Bai Koroma (2007–2018), was seen by some as a time of infrastructural development and international engagement. However, critics argue that it was also a period marred by allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and growing inequality.
That duality in its legacy remains a double-edged sword. On one hand, APC’s historical roots give it an enduring support base, particularly in the Northern Province and parts of the Western Area. On the other, past mistakes continue to erode public trust, especially among swing voters and the politically-conscious youth.
The APC’s shocking defeat in the 2018 presidential election to the SLPP’s Julius Maada Bio exposed deep structural and organizational weaknesses. The party’s refusal to fully accept defeat at the time, its prolonged legal wrangling, and its sluggish response to changing political realities led to widespread perception that the party was stuck in denial.
Internally, the APC has been plagued by factionalism. Various power blocs — including the Samura Kamara camp, the old guard loyal to Ernest Bai Koroma, and the emerging youthful voices pushing for reforms — have often been at odds. This infighting not only affects strategic planning but also undermines public confidence in the party’s ability to unite and govern effectively.
The much-anticipated internal elections and constitution review processes have been contentious. Questions still linger about how inclusive and transparent the leadership structure is. If APC cannot resolve these tensions, it risks heading into 2028 disorganized and fragmented — a surefire path to another defeat.
The Samura Kamara Factor:
Dr. Samura Kamara remains the most recognizable face of the APC’s recent political journey. As the 2018 and 2023 flagbearer, his popularity within the party is significant. However, his ongoing legal battles related to alleged corruption during his time as Foreign Minister have cast a shadow over his ambitions. While he maintains innocence, the mere existence of these legal hurdles creates uncertainty.
Furthermore, there’s a growing feeling among the youth and some progressive factions within the party that the APC needs a fresh face. The question then becomes: Will the party rally behind Samura Kamara one last time, or will it dare to choose a new leader who reflects generational change and a clean slate?
So far, there is no clear succession plan or consensus candidate if Kamara is sidelined. This lack of clarity speaks volumes about the party’s readiness for 2028.
Sierra Leone is a young country, demographically speaking. More than 60% of the population is under the age of 35. For any party to win in 2028, it must have a clear, credible, and convincing youth engagement strategy. The APC has made some efforts to appeal to the youth through social media campaigns and youth wing mobilizations, but these initiatives have largely lacked substance.
The party must do more than parade youthful faces. It must develop a policy framework that addresses the issues that matter to the youth — job creation, entrepreneurship, education, digital access, and mental health. Without a youth-centered vision, APC risks becoming irrelevant to the demographic that will decide the next election.
Traditionally, the APC has drawn its strength from the North, Northwest, and Western Urban. However, a winning strategy in 2028 must include outreach to the Southeast — the SLPP’s stronghold — and the creation of a truly national appeal. Tribal and regional politics have long divided Sierra Leone, but the winds of change suggest that the electorate is slowly becoming more issue-focused.
To this end, the APC must develop a manifesto that transcends tribal lines and addresses national concerns. It must field candidates at all levels who reflect the diversity and unity of Sierra Leone, or risk remaining a regional party with national ambitions.
One of the most glaring weaknesses of the APC in recent years is its lack of a compelling, clearly communicated policy alternative to the SLPP’s governance. Criticizing the failures of the Bio administration is not enough. Sierra Leoneans want to know what the APC stands for, not just what it stands against.
What is the APC’s plan to fix the economy? How will it fight corruption differently? What is its approach to agriculture, education, and energy? These questions remain largely unanswered in public discourse.
If APC does not articulate a visionary, practical policy roadmap — and do so well before 2028 — then no amount of slogans or rallies will compensate for the absence of substance.
Is the APC prepared for 2028? As of now, the answer is partially, but not fully. The party has the name, the base, and the historical credibility to mount a serious challenge. But it lacks the internal unity, strategic foresight, and visionary leadership needed to guarantee success.
Time is running out. For the APC to rise again in 2028, it must urgently address its internal conflicts, reinvent its image, present fresh and competent leadership, and craft a powerful policy vision that inspires trust. If it fails to do so, it will once again leave the field open for the SLPP — or perhaps even a third force — to dominate.
Sierra Leone deserves better. Whether the APC can be part of that better future depends on the choices it makes today.