The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), one of Sierra Leone’s oldest and most prominent political parties, has enjoyed moments of triumph and influence since its establishment. However, in recent years, the party’s governance under President Julius Maada Bio has faced significant challenges that threaten its potential to remain in power after the 2028 elections. While the SLPP still commands substantial grassroots support, cracks within its leadership, poor policy implementations, and public dissatisfaction are steadily widening its chances of losing the elections to other contending parties, notably the All People’s Congress (APC).
The SLPP’s struggles to maintain its political stronghold reflect a broader discontent among Sierra Leoneans, fueled by economic hardships, accusations of corruption, and mismanagement of national resources. With opposition parties gaining momentum and an electorate yearning for genuine progress, the SLPP risks becoming a party of the past if it does not urgently address these growing concerns.
Public Discontent: The Weight of Broken Promises:
When President Bio came to power in 2018, his administration promised sweeping reforms, economic revitalization, and social progress. Central to his campaign was the highly publicized “Free Quality Education” initiative, which aimed to improve literacy and access to education for all Sierra Leoneans. However, while this policy initially garnered praise, its implementation has faced criticism for being poorly planned and underfunded. Teachers’ strikes, inadequate school facilities, and the inability to sustain promised funding have left many questioning the program’s sustainability and effectiveness.
The “Feed Salone” project, another flagship policy, promised food security and economic empowerment. Yet, the soaring cost of living, persistent hunger, and an agricultural sector in disarray reveal the government’s failure to deliver. Ordinary Sierra Leoneans are increasingly disillusioned by a regime that appears out of touch with their daily struggles. This public discontent is eroding the SLPP’s traditional support base, even in its strongholds, as people question whether the party can meet their needs in the coming years.
Economic Mismanagement and Rising Poverty:
One of the SLPP’s most glaring weaknesses has been its inability to stabilize Sierra Leone’s economy. Rampant inflation, unemployment, and a devalued currency have plunged the country into deeper poverty. The government’s reliance on external borrowing has increased national debt, further straining an already fragile economy. Many citizens feel abandoned as the cost of essential goods, from rice to fuel, continues to soar.
The business community has also voiced its frustrations, citing unfavorable policies, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and excessive taxation as barriers to growth. These issues have discouraged foreign investment, stifled local entrepreneurship, and exacerbated economic inequality. With no clear strategy to address these challenges, the SLPP’s economic track record is becoming a major liability as it seeks reelection.
Internal Divisions and Leadership Crisis:
A party’s strength lies in its unity, but the SLPP is increasingly fractured by internal divisions and power struggles. The rivalry between senior party members, particularly the ambition of Chief Minister David Sengeh to succeed President Bio, has created tension within the party. Reports of infighting between young and older party members have further destabilized the SLPP, leading to a lack of coherence in its policies and strategies.
The growing perception of favoritism and tribalism within the SLPP’s ranks has alienated many of its members and supporters. Disillusioned youth, who once rallied behind President Bio as a symbol of hope, are now questioning the party’s inclusivity and long-term vision. Such divisions are not only weakening the SLPP from within but are also providing opposition parties with ammunition to exploit during campaigns.
Corruption Allegations and Lack of Accountability:
Corruption remains a thorn in the SLPP’s side, as accusations of financial mismanagement and lack of transparency continue to dominate public discourse. High-profile scandals, including misappropriation of public funds and questionable government contracts, have tarnished the party’s image. Critics argue that the SLPP has failed to demonstrate the political will to tackle corruption effectively, despite President Bio’s promises of accountability.
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), which was once seen as a credible institution, is increasingly perceived as selective in its prosecutions, targeting opposition figures while shielding ruling party members. This erosion of trust in state institutions further alienates voters who demand justice and fairness.
The Rise of Opposition Parties:
As the SLPP grapples with its challenges, opposition parties like the APC and emerging coalitions are gaining ground. The APC, in particular, has been actively working to unite its ranks and present itself as a credible alternative to the ruling party. Recent reconciliation efforts and strategic planning within the APC signal a party ready to capitalize on the SLPP’s weaknesses.
Other smaller parties, such as the National Grand Coalition (NGC) and the Coalition for Change (C4C), are also positioning themselves as alternatives to the SLPP. These parties appeal to a growing segment of voters disillusioned with the two dominant parties, offering fresh perspectives and policies aimed at addressing the country’s pressing issues.
The SLPP’s Fallout with the Youth:
The youth demographic, which makes up a significant portion of Sierra Leone’s population, was instrumental in bringing the SLPP to power in 2018. However, the party’s inability to address unemployment, lack of opportunities, and poor governance has created a rift with this critical voter base.
Young people, who were once inspired by President Bio’s rhetoric of change, now feel betrayed by unfulfilled promises. The growing popularity of social media has amplified their frustrations, with many openly criticizing the government’s failures. Opposition parties are increasingly tapping into this discontent, offering policies and narratives that resonate with the aspirations of Sierra Leone’s youth.
Tribalism and Regionalism: A Double-Edged Sword:
The SLPP has long relied on strong support from its southern and eastern strongholds, but its reliance on tribal and regional politics is becoming a liability. Many Sierra Leoneans are calling for a more inclusive approach to governance, one that transcends ethnic and regional boundaries. The perception that the SLPP prioritizes its traditional base at the expense of other regions is alienating voters in the north and west, where the APC has traditionally been strong.
The party’s inability to build bridges across Sierra Leone’s diverse communities is widening the divide between it and a growing number of voters who demand a government that represents all citizens, not just a select few.
The Path to 2028: Challenges and Opportunities:
With the 2028 elections fast approaching, the SLPP faces an uphill battle to regain the trust of the electorate. To have any chance of retaining power, the party must:
Rebuild Public Trust: The SLPP must address corruption allegations and demonstrate a genuine commitment to transparency and accountability.
Unify the Party: Resolving internal divisions and fostering a sense of unity among party members is crucial to presenting a cohesive front.
Deliver Tangible Results: The government must prioritize policies that directly improve the lives of ordinary Sierra Leoneans, particularly in the areas of employment, education, and healthcare.
Engage the Youth: Reconnecting with young voters through meaningful policies and programs can help the SLPP regain some of its lost support.
A Losing Battle:
Despite these potential solutions, the SLPP’s dwindling prospects for 2028 are becoming increasingly apparent. The combination of public dissatisfaction, internal divisions, and the rise of a united opposition creates a challenging environment for the party. The electorate’s growing demand for change and accountability signals a desire to move beyond the status quo, and the SLPP may find itself on the losing side of history if it fails to adapt.
As Sierra Leone prepares for another electoral cycle, the SLPP’s journey serves as a cautionary tale of how governance failures, internal discord, and a disconnection with the people can erode even the most established political foundations. Unless the party takes decisive action to reverse its fortunes, 2028 may mark the beginning of the end for the SLPP’s hold on power.