By Forum staff writer
The National Secretary General of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party, Umarr Paran Tarawally, has clarified that only seven senior party members currently qualify to contest for the position of flag bearer ahead of the 2028 general elections, in accordance with the party’s August 2020 Constitution.
Speaking on the eligibility requirements, Mr Tarawally explained that the SLPP Constitution clearly defines who may contest under the category of Distinguished Grand Chief Patron, which is the highest membership class permitted to vie for the party’s presidential flag bearer position. He stressed that the rules are explicit and must be respected to preserve internal democracy and discipline within the party.
According to the National Secretary General, the seven qualified individuals are Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Prince Alex Harding, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, Sulaiman Banja Tejan-Sie, Jacob Jusu Saffa, John Oponjo Benjamin, and Momodu Koroma.
Mr Tarawally noted that all seven have served continuously in the Distinguished Grand Chief Patron category for a minimum period of five years and have fully paid their party dues for five years or more, as required by the Constitution. He said these conditions are mandatory and non negotiable for anyone seeking to contest the party’s highest elective position.
He further explained that qualification into the Distinguished Grand Chief Patron category itself is based on previous high level service to the party. Under the SLPP Constitution, eligible persons must have served either as Party Leader, Deputy Leader, National Chairman, or National Secretary General. Alternatively, they may qualify if they previously stood as a Presidential candidate or Vice Presidential candidate of the party.
The National Secretary General emphasised that these provisions were deliberately included in the Constitution to ensure that only experienced and committed party members, with a deep understanding of the party’s values and structures, are entrusted with leading the party into national elections.
He also cautioned party supporters and aspiring leaders against misinterpreting or selectively applying the Constitution for political convenience. According to him, adherence to the party’s governing document is essential for maintaining unity and avoiding unnecessary internal disputes as preparations for the 2028 elections begin.
Political analysts believe the clarification comes at a crucial time, as discussions and informal alignments around the next SLPP flag bearer have already started to emerge within party circles. By clearly outlining who is constitutionally eligible, the party leadership aims to manage expectations and promote an orderly process.
As the ruling party prepares for another electoral cycle, Mr Tarawally said the SLPP remains committed to transparency, internal democracy, and respect for its Constitution, adding that these principles will guide the party in selecting a flag bearer capable of leading it into the 2028 general elections.
