The ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) is facing an internal crisis that threatens its political survival ahead of the 2028 elections. Instead of focusing on governance and national development, the party is consumed by internal rivalries, power struggles, and factional disputes.
As key party figures engage in bitter infighting, the SLPP is rapidly losing the trust of the people and weakening its chances of retaining power. If this trend continues, the party may face an inevitable defeat in the next elections.
Deepening Divisions Within the SLPP
The SLPP is currently more divided than ever, with competing factions fighting for control of the party. President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership has failed to unite the different interest groups within the SLPP, leading to growing resentment and disillusionment among party members.
One of the most contentious battles is between Chief Minister Dr. David Moininah Sengeh and senior SLPP figures who see him as an inexperienced outsider with too much influence. At the same time, the ambitions of First Lady Fatima Bio and Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh have further complicated internal dynamics, fueling a political climate of distrust and hostility.
Another major fault line is the generational divide within the party. Younger SLPP members feel sidelined by the older politicians, who they accuse of holding onto power and refusing to embrace new ideas. Meanwhile, the older generation views the younger politicians as inexperienced and lacking the necessary political acumen. This generational conflict is tearing the party apart, making it difficult for the SLPP to present a united front ahead of 2028.
Betrayal and Backstabbing: The SLPP’s Greatest Weakness
The SLPP’s internal crisis is exacerbated by widespread betrayal and backstabbing among its members. Instead of working together to strengthen the party, key figures are engaging in smear campaigns, secret political maneuvering, and internal sabotage.
Reports indicate that some SLPP officials are leaking damaging information about their colleagues to the opposition and the media. This infighting has resulted in public fallouts between government officials and the party leadership, exposing the deep mistrust that exists within the SLPP. When a ruling party is more focused on internal battles than on governance, it is clear that it is heading towards defeat.
Failure to Deliver on Promises: The SLPP’s Biggest Liability
Beyond its internal conflicts, the SLPP’s biggest failure is its inability to fulfill its campaign promises. The party came to power under the slogan of “New Direction,” promising economic development, improved education, job creation, and better healthcare. However, after years in power, Sierra Leoneans are still struggling with rising poverty, economic instability, and high unemployment rates.
The much-publicized Free Quality Education initiative, which was meant to be President Bio’s landmark achievement, is facing serious challenges. Schools remain underfunded, teachers are dissatisfied, and the quality of education has not significantly improved. Similarly, the Feed Salone project, which was intended to enhance food security, has failed to yield any meaningful results.
The economic hardship under the Bio administration is causing widespread frustration among Sierra Leoneans. Even SLPP supporters are losing faith in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises. If the party cannot convince its own members, how can it expect to win over the general electorate in 2028?
The Fallout of the 2023 Elections: A Warning for SLPP
The 2023 elections were a turning point for the SLPP, exposing the party’s declining popularity. Allegations of electoral fraud and manipulation created significant public distrust, with international observers and civil society groups questioning the credibility of the electoral process.
Instead of addressing these concerns and making efforts to restore public confidence, the SLPP has become more resistant to criticism. The party’s leadership refuses to acknowledge the growing dissatisfaction among Sierra Leoneans and continues to operate in a bubble of self-preservation. If the SLPP cannot accept internal criticism, it will struggle to prepare for the 2028 elections effectively.
APC’s Political Revival: A Growing Threat to SLPP
While the SLPP is occupied with internal disputes, the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) is gaining momentum. The APC is capitalizing on the failures of the Bio administration, using the economic hardship and political instability under SLPP rule as its key campaign message.
Despite facing internal challenges of its own, the APC has managed to reorganize and present a stronger front. Samura Kamara, the party’s leading figure, continues to enjoy widespread support, particularly among Sierra Leoneans who are disillusioned with the SLPP.
The APC’s ability to position itself as the alternative to the SLPP will play a crucial role in the 2028 elections.
President Bio’s Leadership Crisis
A significant factor contributing to the SLPP’s internal crisis is President Bio’s leadership style. His inability to manage party disputes, his overreliance on certain individuals, and his reluctance to engage with opposing views have further divided the party.
Many SLPP members who once supported Bio’s leadership are now questioning his ability to govern effectively. His heavy reliance on First Lady Fatima Bio in political and governance matters has created additional tension within the party. Some SLPP officials feel sidelined, accusing Bio of running a “family government” rather than a democratic administration.
SLPP’s Reliance on Tribal Politics is Backfiring
The SLPP’s dependence on tribal politics is another factor that is pushing the party towards defeat. Instead of fostering national unity, the party has been accused of favoring certain ethnic groups while marginalizing others, an approach has alienated many Sierra Leoneans, leading to growing resentment.
Meanwhile, the APC is presenting itself as a more inclusive party that represents all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of ethnicity. If the SLPP continues to promote tribal divisions, it will only accelerate its downfall in the 2028 elections.
The Inevitable Defeat in 2028
With its internal crisis, failure to deliver on promises, and growing disconnect from the people, the SLPP is heading toward an inevitable defeat in 2028. The party’s inability to resolve its internal divisions and focus on governance is making it easier for the opposition to gain ground.
Sierra Leoneans are desperate for change, and if the SLPP continues on this path of self-destruction, they will have no choice but to reject the party at the polls. The biggest threat to the SLPP is not the APC or any other political opponent—it is the SLPP itself.
The 2028 elections will be a defining moment for Sierra Leone. If the SLPP does not address its internal problems and reconnect with the people, it will face a historic loss, marking the end of its reign in power.
