The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), one of the country’s oldest political parties, has a long tradition of governance and leadership. As the party looks to the future and the 2028 Presidential Elections, the list of potential successors to President Julius Maada Bio, as the party’s flagbearer, is growing. Among these contenders are Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Dr Alie Kabba, Dr David Sengeh, Francis Ben Kaifala Esq, Alhaji Musa Tarawally, Dr Kandeh Yumkella, Andrew Jaiah Kaikai Esq. and others.
The Gleaner Newspaper looks at the first list of names to come to light thus far.
Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has been President Bio’s dependable Vice President since April 2018. Dr. Jalloh is a political scientist, businessman, and former UN official. Jalloh is a senior member of the Sierra Leone People’s Party.
If the SLPP follows its leadership structure, he should be the rightful successor to President Bio.
Dr. Alie Kabba is a prominent figure in the SLPP, who has held various positions during President Julius Maada Bio’s first term in office. He is a seasoned politician and enjoys a large following among party members. Dr Kabba is well-known for his dedication to public service and his desire to improve the lives of all Sierra Leoneans. His experience and leadership skills make him a strong candidate for the party’s flagbearer position in 2028.
Dr. David Sengeh is another potential candidate, who has been recognized for his work in technology and innovation. He is the current Chief Minister and President Bio’s right-hand man. He has served as Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education and has played a key role in implementing educational reforms. Dr. Sengeh’s forward-thinking approach and emphasis on youth empowerment make him a popular choice among young voters across the country.
Francis Ben Kaifala Esq. is the current Commissioner of Sierra Leone’s Anti-Corruption Commission, and has received praise for his efforts to combat corruption and promote transparency in government. His no-nonsense approach to governance has earned him a reputation as a strong and capable leader. Kaifala’s anti-corruption stance appeals to many Sierra Leoneans, who are fed up with the country’s long history of corruption. He is being accused by the main opposition APC party of targeting former government officials.
Alhaji Musa Tarawally is a seasoned politician, who previously served as Minister of Lands, Country Planning, and the Environment under Dr Ernest Bai Koroma’s administration. He ran for President in the 2018 election as a member of the Citizens Democratic Party. He has extensive governance experience and an in-depth understanding of Sierra Leone’s challenges. Tarawally’s service record and commitment to national development make him a credible candidate for the SLPP’s flagbearer position.
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella is a well-known figure in Sierra Leonean politics, having served as a Member of Parliament from 2018 to 2023, and Minister of Trade and Industry for the NPRC in the early 1990s. He was also the former Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). Dr. Yumkella’s international experience and expertise in economic development make him a strong candidate for the SLPP’s flagbearer position.
Andrew Jaiah Kaikai Esq. is the current Executive Director of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency. He is also the former Chief Immigration Officer. A lawyer and former military officer.
As the SLPP looks ahead to the 2028 Presidential Elections, the party must carefully consider its choice of successor to President Julius Maada Bio. The next flagbearer will need vision, leadership, and integrity to build on President Bio’s achievements. The candidates mentioned above all bring distinct strengths and qualities to the table, and each has the potential to lead the party to victory in the upcoming elections.
The SLPP must select a candidate who can unite the party and appeal to a diverse range of voters. To achieve the party’s goals, the next flagbearer must be able to reach a consensus and collaborate with other members. The candidate will also need to have a clear vision for Sierra Leone’s future and a strategy for addressing the country’s most pressing issues, such as poverty, corruption, and infrastructure development.
As the SLPP prepares for the 2028 Presidential Elections, its members must carefully consider the qualities and qualifications of each potential candidate. The party’s flagbearer will have a significant impact on Sierra Leone’s future, leading the country to a brighter and more prosperous future. The SLPP must choose a candidate who can instil confidence and lead the party to victory in the upcoming elections. Sierra Leone’s future depends on the party’s ability to select a strong and effective leader, capable of building on the progress made under President Julius Maada Bio’s administration.
