By Hassan Osman Kargbo
One of the leading aspirants for the All People’s Congress (APC) party, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, has publicly addressed growing speculation about his political relationship with former President Ernest Bai Koroma, issuing firm denials on multiple allegations connecting him to the former leader.
Speaking during a press engagement on Monday, 26 May 2025 at the Liberty Online TV, Dr. Bangura clarified that former President Koroma has played no role in his current bid for the APC flagbearership, and dismissed rumors of political endorsement, familial ties, or personal connections.
“Former President Ernest Bai Koroma has played no role and has had no influence whatsoever on my political aspiration,” Bangura stated unequivocally. “My decision to run is solely mine and driven by my vision for a reformed and progressive APC that is people-focused and future-ready.”
Amid accusations suggesting that his candidacy is the result of behind-the-scenes influence by the former President, Dr. Bangura denied any form of endorsement or support from the party’s former chairman and leader.
He also addressed persistent rumors alleging that he shares a family bond with Koroma, declaring them to be false and misleading. “There is no family connection between us,” he said. “Our only relationship is that he is my former leader, President, and chairman.”
Further distancing himself from personal affiliations with the former President, Dr. Bangura responded to claims that he is married to one of Koroma’s daughters — an allegation that has circulated widely on social media and among some APC grassroots members. “I do not know the daughter in question,” he clarified. “I have never had any contact with her, and there is no marital or any direct relationship between us.”
The aspiring APC flagbearer also addressed speculation that Ernest Bai Koroma is secretly lobbying delegates within the party to support his candidacy in the upcoming APC convention. He dismissed the claim as unfounded and detrimental to the unity of the party.
“That claim is completely false,” he said. “While I would appreciate his support, the truth is I currently have no form of support from him. I also strongly believe he would not involve himself in anything that would bring back the division we experienced in the APC from 2017 to 2021.”
Between 2017 and 2021, the APC was embroiled in internal conflicts over leadership struggles, factional divisions, and accusations of imposition of candidates — a period that weakened the party’s standing and contributed to its loss in the 2018 general elections. Dr. Bangura’s reassurance that his campaign is free of undue influence appears to be an attempt to prevent a repeat of that experience and to promote transparency and independence within the party.
Political observers say Dr. Bangura’s remarks reflect a strategic move to position himself as a candidate of unity and change, distancing his bid from the old guard and the controversial legacies of past leadership.
As the APC prepares for its national convention, Dr. Bangura is among several contenders hoping to lead the party into the 2028 general elections. His public clarifications may help ease internal tensions and reassure party delegates of his commitment to a new and independent vision for the APC.
Whether these statements will shift public perception or influence the outcome of the leadership race remains to be seen, one thing is clear — Dr. Bangura is drawing a bold line between himself and the party’s past.
