By Cyllo Wise
As the All People’s Congress (APC) looks ahead to the 2028 general elections, a pivotal question looms over the party’s future: who will succeed Samura Kamara as the next flagbearer? Dr. Samura Kamara, a respected economist and seasoned politician, has been the face of the APC in both the 2018 and 2023 elections. However, with the party’s inability to secure victory against the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in two consecutive elections, the APC is now at a crossroads. The need for fresh leadership, dynamic vision, and a new strategy has never been more urgent. This article explores the potential candidates to succeed Samura Kamara as the APC flagbearer, examines the qualities the party needs in its next leader, and analyses the broader implications for the APC’s future.
Dr. Samura Kamara has been a central figure in Sierra Leonean politics for over two decades. His experience as Minister of Finance, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone made him an appealing candidate for the presidency. Kamara’s economic expertise and diplomatic credentials gave him legitimacy as a leader who could navigate Sierra Leone’s complex challenges.
However, despite his qualifications, Kamara has faced criticism for his inability to unite the APC and effectively challenge the SLPP’s dominance under President Julius Maada Bio. After two failed bids for the presidency, there is growing sentiment within the APC that the party needs new leadership to carry the torch into the 2028 elections.
While Samura Kamara’s contributions to the APC are undeniable, the time has come for the party to consider its next steps. The search for a new flagbearer presents an opportunity for the APC to redefine itself, attract a broader base of voters, and present a fresh vision for Sierra Leone’s future.
Before exploring the potential candidates, it is important to outline the qualities that the APC’s next flagbearer should embody. The political landscape in Sierra Leone is changing, and the electorate is increasingly demanding leaders who can address the country’s pressing issues, including unemployment, corruption, healthcare, and education. To meet these demands, the APC’s next leader must possess the following attributes:
Visionary Leadership: The next flagbearer must present a clear, forward-thinking vision for Sierra Leone’s future. This vision should go beyond the party’s traditional base and appeal to all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of region or ethnicity. The APC’s new leader must be capable of articulating a comprehensive plan for economic growth, social development, and good governance.
Charisma and Communication Skills: In modern politics, charisma and the ability to communicate effectively with the electorate are essential. The APC needs a leader who can inspire hope, rally support, and effectively challenge the SLPP’s narrative. This individual must be able to connect with Sierra Leoneans at the grassroots level and present themselves as a relatable and accessible leader.
Integrity and Accountability: Sierra Leoneans are increasingly frustrated with corruption and lack of accountability in politics. The APC’s next leader must embody transparency, integrity, and a commitment to clean governance. This will help rebuild trust with the electorate and distinguish the APC from the SLPP.
Youth Appeal: Sierra Leone’s population is predominantly young, and the APC must engage this demographic if it hopes to secure victory in 2028. The next flagbearer should be someone who can speak to the aspirations of the youth, advocate for job creation, education reform, and opportunities for the next generation.
Political Savvy and Unity: The APC has been plagued by internal divisions and factionalism. The party’s next leader must have the political acumen to unite the various factions within the APC and present a cohesive, united front. Without unity, the APC will struggle to mount an effective challenge against the SLPP.
With these qualities in mind, several names have emerged as potential successors to Samura Kamara. While it is still early, the following individuals represent some of the most prominent figures within the APC who could step up to lead the party into the 2028 elections.
Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, commonly known as JFK, is a well-respected lawyer and former Attorney General and Minister of Justice. He is widely regarded as a strong contender for the APC flagbearer position due to his legal expertise, experience in government, and his reputation for integrity. JFK is seen as a reform-minded politician who could bring a fresh perspective to the APC’s leadership.
JFK’s legal background could be a significant asset, as Sierra Leone continues to grapple with issues of justice and governance. His ability to present himself as a champion of the rule of law could resonate with voters who are frustrated with corruption and impunity. Additionally, JFK has shown an ability to appeal to a broad base of voters, making him a unifying figure within the APC.
Chernor Bah, the current Deputy Leader of the APC, is another strong candidate for the flagbearer position. Known for his charisma and eloquent speeches, Chericoco has built a loyal following within the party and is seen as a rising star. His leadership in Parliament and ability to engage with the youth make him an attractive candidate for the APC’s future.
Chericoco’s political experience and his efforts to connect with young voters could give the APC the youthful energy it needs to compete in the 2028 elections. However, Chericoco will need to demonstrate that he can move beyond party rhetoric and present a clear, actionable plan for Sierra Leone’s development.
Karamoh Kabba, a seasoned politician and former Minister of State in the Office of the Vice President, is another figure who could emerge as a contender for the APC flagbearer role. Kabba is known for his strong ties to the grassroots and his ability to mobilize support in the northern regions of Sierra Leone.
Kabba’s deep connections with local communities could make him a powerful force within the APC, but he will need to demonstrate that he can broaden his appeal beyond his regional base. The APC’s next leader must be able to unite the entire country, and Kabba’s challenge will be to present himself as a national leader with a clear vision for Sierra Leone’s future.
Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, the current Mayor of Freetown, has gained national and international recognition for her work in transforming Sierra Leone’s capital city. Her focus on urban development, environmental sustainability, and good governance has won her widespread praise. As a result, Aki-Sawyerr has emerged as a potential candidate for the APC’s leadership.
As a woman in a male-dominated political landscape, Aki-Sawyerr’s candidacy would represent a significant shift for the APC. Her technocratic approach to governance and her ability to deliver results in Freetown make her a formidable contender. However, Aki-Sawyerr will need to demonstrate that she can extend her influence beyond Freetown and appeal to rural voters.
The choice of the next flagbearer will have significant implications for the future of the APC. The party must carefully navigate the transition from Samura Kamara’s leadership and select a candidate who can unify the party, attract new voters, and effectively challenge the SLPP in 2028.
Whomever the APC selects as its next flagbearer, it is essential that the party presents a cohesive, united front. Factionalism has been one of the greatest challenges facing the APC, and without unity, the party will struggle to mount a credible campaign. The next leader must prioritize internal reform, youth engagement, and grassroots mobilization.
The 2028 general elections represent a pivotal moment for the APC. As the party looks to the future, the question of who will succeed Samura Kamara as flagbearer is crucial. The APC must choose a leader who embodies visionary leadership, integrity, and the ability to connect with Sierra Leoneans across all demographics.
Whether it is Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, Chernor Magu Bah, Karamoh Kabba, or Yvonne Aki-Sawyer, the next flagbearer must present a clear vision for Sierra Leone’s future and be capable of uniting the party. The stakes are high, and the APC’s ability to step up and deliver on the hopes of the people will determine whether it can reclaim its place as the dominant political force in Sierra Leone. The time for bold leadership is now, and the APC must rise to the occasion.
