By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Lunsar Town witnessed a remarkable scene recently as thousands of All People’s Congress (APC) supporters braved a heavy downpour to listen to Dr. Ibrahim Bangura (DIB), one of the party’s leading flagbearer aspirants. The rains, which poured persistently throughout the well-attended gathering, were described by many as symbolic of divine approval and the resilience of a leader prepared to face challenges alongside his people.
Dr. Bangura, widely admired for his charisma and calm temperament, used the event to reaffirm his political vision anchored on three simple but powerful words: Heal, Unite and Build. His supporters echoed the slogan throughout the rally, describing it as a roadmap to both party renewal and national transformation.
Standing firmly on stage with rain pouring down his shoulders, DIB waved off the offer of an umbrella, preferring to endure the storm together with his supporters. “These rains touching our bodies are not only showers of blessing but also signify that victory is here for the APC,” he declared to loud cheers. “DIB is a movement that has not come to fail, but to succeed. And we are going to succeed in the name of Allah and God.”
He urged APC supporters across the country: Bo, Pujehun, Kono, Bombali, Kenema and beyond—to remain peaceful, respectful, and law-abiding as the party prepares for its upcoming flagbearer contest. “We only have one country, Sierra Leone. We must not abuse or fight our opponents. After the convention, we have to come together as one party and prioritize unity,” he said.
Dr. Bangura reminded his audience that his political journey is rooted in humble beginnings, making him deeply connected to the struggles of ordinary Sierra Leoneans. “Our fellow competitors are not our enemies. Above all, we are fighting for a common goal, which is to democratically contest, win elections, and march to State House in 2028,” he emphasized.
The symbolic downpour, many supporters said, reflected a moment of baptism for both leader and movement, a renewal of strength and conviction. The Iron Ladies of Lunsar, a group of women activists within the APC, boldly joined Dr. Bangura in the rain, linking arms with him to demonstrate solidarity. They praised his vision and integrity, saying his political slogan resonates strongly with their desire for change. “A united APC can remove the Paopa government and rebuild Sierra Leone,” they declared collectively.
Dr. Bangura highlighted that the APC has a long history of producing leaders of integrity and prosperity, citing himself as an example of what the party continues to nurture. He expressed confidence that only the APC has the heart to uplift the poor and marginalized in Sierra Leone, adding that his leadership would be dedicated to transforming lives.
He also paid tribute to the late S.I. Koroma, whom he described as a “political godfather” whose service to the APC and Sierra Leone remains unmatched. “S.I. Koroma’s relentless dedication to the grassroots and the party’s elevation cannot be overemphasized. He was a man among men,” DIB said solemnly.
Many supporters in Lunsar praised Dr. Bangura for his humility, integrity, and physical presence, which they believe make him a strong contender for the APC flagbearer position. One female supporter described him as “a nice man with respect, a leader with both the character and the stature to represent the APC.”
As the rains poured and chants of “Heal, Unite, Build” filled the air, the rally became more than a political meeting, it was a demonstration of resilience, unity, and the determination of a people who believe their time for change is near. For many in Lunsar, the sight of DIB standing tall in the storm was a powerful sign of a leader ready to weather challenges alongside his supporters, with eyes firmly set on State House in 2028.
