The Phoenix, Arizona Chapter of the All People’s Congress (APC) party in the United States delivered a grand reception for one of the party’s prominent figures, Dr. Kaifala Marah, during a series of events marking the official inauguration of the APC Arizona Chapter. The celebrations, which began on Friday, November 15, 2024, brought together party stalwarts from Sierra Leone and across the diaspora.
In his keynote address at the event, Dr. Marah highlighted the urgent need for unity within the APC as the party prepares for its bid to return to governance in Sierra Leone in 2028. “The move to return the APC to governance is not about me; it is about the nation,” he stressed. Acknowledging the challenges currently facing the party, he urged members to focus on rebuilding its reputation and addressing pressing national issues.
“The party is at a crossroads,” Dr. Marah said, referencing the deteriorating economy and growing divisions within Sierra Leone along ethnic, regional, and political lines. He called for collective efforts to overcome the party’s difficulties and reaffirmed his commitment to reforms aimed at strengthening the APC’s political agenda.
The Phoenix Chapter President, Shangari, received special commendation for his efforts in organizing the event and fostering unity among party members. Dr. Marah also emphasized the importance of grassroots engagement in the party’s strategies, particularly in mobilizing support from Sierra Leone’s diaspora communities.
The festivities began with a meet-and-greet on Friday evening at 3402 Osborn Road in Phoenix, Arizona, where members had the opportunity to interact with Dr. Marah and other distinguished guests. Saturday’s events included a lunch and general meeting at 12421 W. Kaler Drive, Glendale, Arizona, followed by an inaugural dinner and dance back at the Phoenix venue. These activities saw high attendance from APC supporters and leaders, both from Sierra Leone and the U.S., underscoring the party’s wide reach.
As the APC prepares for its national delegates’ conference and broader reforms, the Arizona Chapter’s successful inauguration signals growing enthusiasm among its diaspora members to contribute to the party’s vision and goals.