By Forum staff writer
All People’s Congress party (APC) has unveiled comprehensive reforms to its internal election process as part of preparations for the 2028 presidential election. The new rules introduce nomination fees and updated regulations that will govern contests from ward committees to the National Delegates Conference. The reforms have been officially gazetted and endorsed by the Political Parties Regulation Commission PPRC.
Party officials say the revised framework is intended to strengthen internal democracy transparency and accountability while providing clear guidelines for all aspirants seeking leadership positions within the APC. The regulations apply to elections at every level of the party structure ensuring uniformity and clarity in the conduct of internal contests.
Under the new rules aspirants seeking to contest for the APC presidential flagbearer position will be required to pay a nomination fee of one hundred thousand leones. In addition candidates must demonstrate a minimum of five consecutive years of fully paid up membership in the party. This requirement is aimed at ensuring that only committed and long serving members are eligible to vie for the party’s highest political position.
The presidential flagbearer election will be decided exclusively by delegates at the National Delegates Conference. To secure victory a candidate must obtain more than fifty percent of the valid votes cast. In the event that no aspirant achieves this majority in the first round the regulations provide for a runoff election between the leading contenders. Party sources say this system is designed to ensure broad support for the eventual flagbearer.
The reforms also introduce measures to prevent conflicts of interest within the party leadership. Any current party official who intends to contest for the flagbearer position is required to resign from their post at least six months before the National Delegates Conference. The APC says this provision promotes fairness and a level playing field during the internal campaign period.
Beyond the presidential contest the new regulations outline nomination fees for other senior leadership positions. The position of National Chairman will attract a nomination fee of twenty thousand leones while the Deputy National Chairman role will require fifteen thousand leones. Lower nomination fees have been set for regional district constituency and ward level offices in recognition of the varying responsibilities and resources associated with those positions.
According to party officials the introduction of standardized nomination fees across all levels is intended to professionalize the internal election process and reduce disputes arising from unclear rules. The APC believes the reforms will enhance discipline and order within the party as it prepares for future elections.
The reforms were approved by the party’s National Advisory Committee and brought in line with the Political Parties Act 2022. The endorsement by the PPRC further confirms that the new rules comply with national legal requirements governing political parties.
As the APC looks ahead to the 2028 elections party leaders say the new regulations signal a commitment to internal reform unity and credible leadership selection. Observers believe the changes could shape the dynamics of upcoming internal contests and influence the party’s readiness for national competition.
