By Sheriff Cole and Sibo 125
Historically, the All People’s Congress (APC) party has produced great politicians from every facet of society. Built on the foundation of being the haven for the common man and woman, the APC remains the party on record to have delivered the majority of the development programmes Sierra Leoneans are proud of today.
As the APC prepares for the future, it will be wise to follow its own history. The APC is a congress for all. It is within this spirit that we make the case for Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, popularly known as ‘Chericoco.’
A Proven Legislator
With a prolific record as one of Sierra Leone’s best lawyers, Chericoco is a household name in politics, having steadily risen from the grassroots to the top.
Elected to Parliament in 2007, he has served three consecutive terms, making him one of the most experienced parliamentarians in the country. His deep understanding of parliamentary procedures and the laws of the land make him a full package as the APC prepares to regain political power in 2028.
Chericoco served as Leader of the Opposition from 2019 to 2023, chaired critical committees such as Mines and Mineral Resources, Legislative, and Public Accounts, and consistently demonstrated results-oriented, calm, and calculated leadership.
Champion of the Youth
Chericoco embodies the aspirations of Sierra Leone’s young people, combining intellectual competence, patience, and a unifying temperament that can sustain peace and stability even after the APC resumes national leadership.
When Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma announced Dr. Samura Kamara as the APC flagbearer in 2017, many supporters were uncertain, knowing Dr. Samura Kamara was not a career politician. However, the presence of Chericoco on the ticket reassured the base, given his active, sound parliamentary record.
Since then, Chericoco has carried himself with dignity, maintaining a cordial relationship with Dr. Samura Kamara despite personal attacks and misinformation. The truth is emerging, vindicating Chericoco from misleading claims, and underscoring his loyalty to the party above personal interest.
A Practicing Muslim with Strong Community Ties
In 2002, Ahmad Tejan Kabbah’s electoral strength was partly attributed to voters’ yearning for a Muslim leader, reflecting the religious dynamics of Sierra Leone. Chericoco, as a practicing Muslim, brings significant electoral value to the APC’s 2028 bid while maintaining deep ties with the Muslim community—the largest in the country.
His long-standing youth Quranic programmes and consistent engagement with the Muslim community further strengthen his grassroots credibility.
Advocate for Youth and Sport
Chericoco is a strong advocate for youth development and sports. As one of the brains behind the All Works of Life (AWOL) initiative, a former chairman of Old Edwardians, and a patron of local football through his support for the EBK Trophy, he connects naturally with the aspirations of Sierra Leone’s young people, who stand ready to follow him.
Culturally Tolerant, Accessible Leader
Though a devout Muslim, Chericoco demonstrates cultural and religious tolerance, embodying the unity Sierra Leone needs. As a “May Park boy,” he is comfortable in churches, mosques, and all community spaces, reflecting his openness and approachability.
To the APC Stakeholders
Chericoco has proven he can handle complex assignments with diligence and loyalty. From 2019 to 2023, he kept 58 APC Members of Parliament united under challenging circumstances and prioritized party stability even when personal ambition could have led elsewhere.
His readiness to put the APC first is evident in his actions, not just words. Ahead of the 2023 elections, the team he assembled protected the party from external impositions, ensuring the APC remained intact.
The Tested, Trusted, and Ready Leader
Many young aspirants within the APC are qualified, but Chericoco is a full package—already known, tested, and trusted across Sierra Leone.
The 2028 elections will require a candidate who understands the complexities of winning political power. Chericoco’s years of service, his respect for the law, his proven leadership, and his commitment to unity make him the versatile leader the APC needs.
Now is the time for this seasoned politician in his 50s to captain the APC with diligence, humility, and a commitment to building upon the legacies of Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma while charting a progressive future for Sierra Leone.
Chericoco is ready. He is the full package to deliver victory for the APC and a better future for Sierra Leone.
