By Sylvester Samai
In the context of Sierra Leonean politics, the rivalry between the All People’s Congress (APC) and the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has been a defining feature of the country’s democratic journey. These two political giants have dominated the political landscape, with their ideological and strategic differences shaping much of the nation’s governance. However, in the aftermath of the 2018 elections, which saw the APC ousted from power by the SLPP, there have been growing questions about the APC’s political future. As the SLPP, under President Julius Maada Bio, tightens its grip on power, one crucial question looms large: is the APC threatened or afraid of the current SLPP?
This question taps into the broader narrative of political competition, strategic posturing, and the inherent challenges faced by opposition parties in holding incumbent governments accountable. As we examine the dynamics between the APC and the SLPP, it is essential to assess the APC’s current status, its strategies for political survival, its public posture in response to SLPP governance, and its prospects for the future. The notion of whether the APC feels threatened or fearful is a complex and multifaceted one that requires careful exploration.
Before delving into whether the APC is threatened or afraid, it is essential to understand the historical rivalry between the two parties. The APC and the SLPP have been at loggerheads since their respective formations. The APC, founded by Siaka Probyn Stevens in 1960, quickly rose to prominence as a populist party representing the working class, while the SLPP, formed in 1951, was seen as the party of the elite and traditional rulers.
The two parties have alternated between power and opposition, with the APC ruling Sierra Leone for much of the period between 1968 and 1992, and then again from 2007 to 2018. The SLPP, on the other hand, has had intermittent periods in power, notably under the leadership of President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah (1996-2007) and more recently under President Bio.
This longstanding rivalry has seen both parties develop distinct political ideologies and constituencies, with the APC traditionally drawing support from the north and the SLPP from the southeast. However, the rivalry is not merely regional; it is a deep-seated battle for political supremacy and control over the nation’s resources.
The APC’s transition from governing party to opposition after the 2018 elections marked a significant turning point in the party’s history. Losing power after a decade of governance under former President Ernest Bai Koroma came as a blow to the APC. The loss was particularly painful because it followed a period during which the APC had solidified its political machinery and cultivated strong grassroots support.
Yet, despite its electoral defeat, the APC remains a formidable political force in Sierra Leone. It controls significant political territory, has a loyal base, and possesses the institutional knowledge necessary to challenge the SLPP in future elections. However, its current position in opposition raises questions about whether the party feels genuinely threatened by the SLPP or is strategically biding its time.
One of the main factors contributing to the APC’s current challenges is internal division. Following the 2018 defeat, the party has experienced infighting, with various factions jostling for control. The leadership vacuum left by former President Koroma has not been entirely filled, leading to uncertainty about the party’s direction. While figures like Samura Kamara, the APC’s 2018 presidential candidate, have maintained visibility, the party has struggled to project a united front.
Internal divisions can create a sense of vulnerability, especially when facing a well-organized ruling party like the SLPP. If the APC is to pose a credible challenge in future elections, it must first resolve its internal conflicts, re-establish cohesion, and present a unified leadership that can effectively counter the SLPP’s dominance.
The APC’s current posture in opposition has raised questions about its strategy. While it has been vocal in criticizing the SLPP’s governance, there is a perception that the APC is not as aggressive as it could be. Some observers argue that this caution may stem from fear of political reprisals or concerns about losing further political ground. The SLPP, under President Bio, has implemented policies that have consolidated its control over state institutions, and the APC may feel constrained in its ability to mount a robust opposition.
However, this perception of fear may be overstated. The APC’s relatively measured approach could also be a result of strategic calculation. Opposition parties often face difficult choices between immediate confrontation and long-term strategy. The APC may be opting for a more measured approach, allowing the SLPP to face the weight of governance challenges while positioning itself as a more stable alternative come the 2028 elections. In this sense, the APC’s strategy may be less about fear and more about waiting for the right political moment to strike.
To determine whether the APC feels threatened by the SLPP, it is essential to analyze how the party has responded to the SLPP’s governance. Since coming to power, President Bio’s administration has implemented several high-profile policies, including the Free Quality Education initiative and the “Feed Salone” program. While these policies have been touted as significant achievements, they have also faced criticism for poor implementation and lack of sustainability.
One of the APC’s key points of critique against the SLPP has been its handling of the economy. Under President Bio, Sierra Leone’s economy has faced significant challenges, including rising inflation, high unemployment, and increasing national debt. The APC has consistently argued that the SLPP’s economic policies are exacerbating the plight of ordinary Sierra Leoneans, particularly in the context of global economic shocks and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The APC’s economic critique resonates with many Sierra Leoneans who feel that the SLPP has not delivered on its promises of economic transformation. This line of attack is likely to be a central feature of the APC’s strategy in future elections. If the SLPP continues to struggle with economic management, the APC could position itself as a credible alternative that can restore economic stability and growth.
Another area where the APC has sought to challenge the SLPP is in its commitment to democratic governance. The APC has accused the Bio administration of undermining democratic institutions, curbing press freedom, and engaging in politically motivated arrests of opposition figures. The SLPP’s consolidation of power has led some to question whether the ruling party is eroding the democratic gains made in previous years.
This line of critique taps into broader concerns about governance and the rule of law in Sierra Leone. The APC’s efforts to frame the SLPP as a party that is undermining democracy are aimed at mobilizing civil society and international attention to hold the ruling party accountable. However, whether the APC can effectively capitalize on these criticisms will depend on its ability to present itself as a party committed to upholding democratic principles.
While critiquing the SLPP’s governance is an essential aspect of opposition politics, the APC must also offer concrete policy alternatives if it is to avoid being perceived as merely reactionary. Thus far, the APC has outlined its intention to focus on job creation, economic revitalization, and strengthening democratic institutions. However, the party must go further in developing a detailed policy platform that resonates with the electorate.
By presenting a clear vision for the future, the APC can demonstrate that it is not simply afraid of the SLPP, but rather is focused on providing a credible alternative that can address Sierra Leone’s pressing challenges. This approach will be essential in dispelling any perception of fear or weakness within the party.
As the 2028 elections approach, the APC faces both opportunities and challenges. On the one hand, the SLPP’s governance has been far from flawless, and there is growing discontent among segments of the population over issues such as the economy, education, and infrastructure. This discontent provides the APC with fertile ground to mobilize voters and present itself as a viable alternative.
On the other hand, the APC must navigate the complexities of being an opposition party in a political environment where the ruling party has consolidated its power. The SLPP has demonstrated a strong capacity to maintain its grip on the state apparatus, and the APC will need to work diligently to ensure that it can compete on a level playing field.
The 2028 elections will be a test of the APC’s resilience and ability to adapt to changing political dynamics. To succeed, the party must resolve its internal divisions, build a compelling policy platform, and effectively challenge the SLPP’s record in government. If the APC can do so, it will have a strong chance of reclaiming power. However, failure to address these key issues could leave the party sidelined for another electoral cycle.
In conclusion, the question of whether the APC is threatened or afraid of the current SLPP is a nuanced one. While the APC faces significant challenges, including internal divisions and the SLPP’s consolidation of power, the party remains a formidable political force with a loyal base and a rich history of governance. Rather than being paralyzed by fear, the APC appears to be in a period of strategic calculation, carefully positioning itself for future electoral battles.
In conclusion, the question of whether the APC is threatened or afraid of the current SLPP is a nuanced one. While the APC faces significant challenges, including internal divisions and the SLPP’s consolidation of power, the party remains a formidable political force with a loyal base and a rich history of governance. Rather than being paralyzed by fear, the APC appears to be in a period of strategic calculation, carefully positioning itself for future electoral battles.
The APC’s ability to present a credible alternative to the SLPP will be essential in determining its political fortunes in 2028. By focusing on policy development, resolving internal conflicts, and effectively critiquing the SLPP’s governance, the APC can dispel any perception of fear and reassert itself as a serious contender for power. Political survival in Sierra Leone’s competitive landscape requires not only resilience but a visionary approach to governance that aligns with the people’s needs. The APC’s historical strength lies in its ability to connect with the grassroots, and if it can rebuild this connection, it will continue to pose a credible challenge to the SLPP.
In summary, the APC is not necessarily afraid of the SLPP but is navigating a complex political environment with caution and strategy. The outcome of this rivalry will largely depend on how effectively the APC can overcome its internal challenges and position itself as a government-in-waiting that resonates with the concerns of Sierra Leoneans.
