By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Calls are growing louder within the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party for the endorsement of Associate Professor Dr. Ibrahim Bangura as the party’s next Presidential candidate (flagbearer) for the 2028 general elections. With a reputation deep-rooted in integrity, experience, and unwavering loyalty to the APC, Dr. Bangura is being hailed as the leader who can restore the party’s strength and deliver a better future for Sierra Leone though his Heal, Unite and Build (HUB) initiative.
Born into the APC, Dr. Bangura is no stranger to the values and traditions of the ‘Red Army.’ His early life, marked by resilience and dedication, mirrors the aspirations of the very people he now seeks to serve at the highest level. Described by supporters as a “true APC child,” Dr. Ibrahim Bangura’s deep ties to the party and his service over the years make him a natural choice to lead.
A seasoned academic, peacebuilder, and philanthropist, Dr. Bangura’s career spans nearly two decades of work in socio-economic reintegration, transitional justice, security sector reform, and human rights. He has lent his expertise to critical peacebuilding missions in countries such as South Sudan, Somalia, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
His work with reputable institutions—including the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre and the European Union—demonstrates the global trust placed in his abilities. As a results-oriented monitoring consultant, he has helped shape development projects in over 30 African nations, positioning him as a continental expert on governance and reform.
Academically, Dr. Bangura’s credentials are unmatched. He holds degrees in Political Science and History, Gender Studies, International Development, and Economics from top institutions in Sierra Leone, the Netherlands, and Germany. His scholarly works, including publications on youth empowerment, transitional justice, and corruption have rebranded Sierra Leone internationally and positioned him as a thought leader on development and governance.
Yet, despite his accolades, Dr. Bangura remains grounded. His upbringing in a modest household has shaped his understanding of the everyday challenges facing ordinary Sierra Leoneans. His empathy is evident in his quiet acts of generosity—paying school fees, supporting orphanages, and funding community projects. Recently, he donated Le200 million and 50 bags of cement to the APC Southern Region Headquarters, a clear testament to his enduring commitment to the party and its grassroots supporters.
APC insiders believe Dr. Bangura brings more than just academic brilliance to the table. They see a man of character, competence, and courage—qualities urgently needed in a flagbearer. In the face of what many describe as misguided policies by the ruling SLPP government, they argue that Dr. Bangura has the knowledge and willpower to provide tangible solutions to Sierra Leone’s pressing problems.
Importantly, Dr. Bangura is seen as a unifier—one who transcends tribal and regional lines in favour of national unity. His vision for Sierra Leone is one built on inclusion, meritocracy, and sustainable development.
As 2026 draws near and the APC prepares for its National Delegates’ Convention, many party loyalists are urging members to look beyond traditional power blocs and embrace a leader who represents a new dawn. Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, they say, is the future—clean, competent, and committed.
With growing support from across the country, the call is clear: it’s time to rally behind Dr. Ibrahim Bangura as the APC’s next flagbearer and usher in a new chapter for Sierra Leone.
