Dr. Ibrahim Bangura
As Sierra Leone prepares for the 2028 elections, the political atmosphere is charged with anticipation, particularly among supporters of the All Peoples Congress (APC) party. The APC is preparing for its national delegates’ convention and internal elections, as President Julius Maada Bio nears the end of his two-term tenure. Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, a prominent candidate vying for the party’s presidential ticket, is actively engaging with supporters to share his vision for the country’s future. In a recent public appearance in London, Dr. Bangura expressed his belief that the upcoming election is more than just a routine political event; it is a watershed moment for a new Sierra Leone. He stated emphatically, “We need a new generation of leadership, one that listens before leading, acts before speaking, and serves before celebrating.” Many Sierra Leoneans in attendance responded positively to his message, which emphasised their right to better governance and accountability from their leaders. Dr. Bangura’s dedication to the APC was clear as he recognised the contributions of fellow aspirants, emphasising the importance of cooperation in strengthening the party. He expressed respect for the party’s current leadership structure, claiming that his role as a flagbearer aspirant does not undermine the authority of the party’s established leaders. “Running as a flag bearer aspirant does not make me the Chairman of the APC, nor does it imply that I am the party’s Secretary General,” he clarified. “My responsibility is to support and strengthen the party’s existing structures, rather than to overshadow or replace them.”
He urged his fellow candidates to focus on strengthening the party’s leadership rather than making divisive statements that could give the impression of disunity. “Let us, as aspirants, focus our ideas and energy on strengthening the party’s leadership and structures,” he said, emphasising the importance of working together to address national issues effectively.
Dr. Bangura’s vision goes beyond political ambition; he wants to “heal, unite, and build” a country that has faced significant challenges, such as high youth unemployment, struggling farmers, and systemic inefficiencies. “I am not here to live a lavish lifestyle, but to build our democratic institutions and channel our resources in the right direction to lift Sierra Leone off the bottom of the Human Development Index,” he stated.
Dr. Bangura reflected on his journey, stating that he was not born into privilege but was raised by parents who instilled in him the values of honesty, hard work, and education. With more than two decades of experience in public policy, community development, and nation-building, he has seen both successes and failures in governance. His mantra, “Heal, Unite, Build,” serves as a guiding principle for transforming Sierra Leone into a nation deserving of the name.
Dr. Bangura’s extensive international experience, including work with organisations such as ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations, qualifies him as a candidate capable of navigating complex policy discussions. His emphasis on peacebuilding and governance reform demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing the underlying causes of Sierra Leone’s problems. Attendees at the London meeting responded overwhelmingly positively, with many praising Dr. Bangura for his clear vision and plans for the APC and the nation. As the 2028 elections approach, his commitment to uniting the party and serving the people of Sierra Leone positions him as a promising leader who can usher in a new era for the country.
