By Forum staff writer
A coalition of women leaders and youth advocates, DIB Ladies and Gen Z for Change, has formally endorsed Dr. Ibrahim Bangura as their preferred candidate for the All People’s Congress flagbearer position ahead of the party’s upcoming national delegates’ convention.
The endorsement was announced during a well-attended gathering in Freetown held as part of the country’s Independence Day celebrations. The event brought together hundreds of supporters, including women leaders, youth representatives and grassroots mobilizers from across the Western Area and the provinces.
According to the group, the decision to back Dr. Bangura followed extensive consultations with members and stakeholders nationwide. They pointed to his track record in education, youth empowerment, maternal health and what they described as a consistent commitment to transparent leadership as key reasons behind their choice.
Speaking at the event, the chairlady of DIB Ladies for Change said Dr. Bangura represents the kind of leadership the APC needs at this moment. She described him as a unifier with strong grassroots connections and the capacity to lead the party to victory.
“Dr. Bangura has the competence, character and connection to the grassroots. As women, we believe he carries the hopes of ordinary Sierra Leoneans. The convention must choose him,” she said.
The endorsement is seen as a significant boost to Dr. Bangura’s growing support base within the party, particularly among women and young people who continue to play an influential role in internal party politics.
In a telephone interview, Dr. Bangura expressed appreciation for the endorsement, describing it as both humbling and motivating. He acknowledged the role of women and youth in shaping the future of the party and the country.
“I am humbled by the confidence DIB Ladies and Gen Z for Change have shown in me, especially at a time when we reflect on our nation’s journey,” he said. “Our party’s strength lies in its people. If given the mandate, I will work with every wing of the APC to build a united, credible and winning team.”
He further emphasized the importance of inclusivity, noting that the participation of women remains central to the party’s success. “When women rise, the APC rises, and when the APC rises, Sierra Leone wins,” he added.
DIB Ladies and Gen Z for Change also outlined plans to begin immediate mobilization efforts in support of Dr. Bangura. These include engaging delegates across the country, organizing town hall meetings and leading voter education initiatives aimed at strengthening participation ahead of the convention.
The group described itself as a coalition committed to advocacy, grassroots development and the socio economic advancement of women and children across Sierra Leone. Members say their endorsement reflects a broader desire to see leadership that prioritizes unity, opportunity and national progress.
Dr. Bangura is widely regarded within the APC for his contributions to academia, public service and community development. His supporters believe these experiences position him as a strong contender capable of leading the party into the next electoral cycle.
As preparations continue for the APC national delegates’ convention, endorsements such as this are expected to shape the dynamics of the race, with various interest groups seeking to influence the party’s choice of flagbearer.
