As Sierra Leone approaches the highly anticipated 2028 general elections, the All People’s Congress (APC) is poised to make a strong comeback after years in opposition. Following a series of near-misses and strategic recalibration, the APC is positioning itself to take advantage of both the challenges facing the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the growing dissatisfaction among the electorate. With the right candidate, the APC can capitalize on this moment to return to power and lead Sierra Leone into a new era of progress, reform, and national unity.
The APC has historically enjoyed a strong support base, particularly in the northern and western regions of Sierra Leone, where the Temne and Limba ethnic groups form the core of its electoral foundation. As a party founded on principles of urban development, economic pragmatism, and social mobility, the APC has long resonated with urbanized, economically motivated citizens who seek progress and modernization. Over the years, the party has cultivated a strong network of loyalists across various constituencies, and this base remains one of the key advantages the APC can harness in the 2028 elections.
The APC’s experience in governance also provides it with an edge. Having ruled Sierra Leone for several years, most notably under the leadership of former President Ernest Bai Koroma, the party has institutional knowledge of how to manage the country’s economic and political systems. While the Koroma administration was criticized for corruption and economic mismanagement, the APC’s period in power also witnessed infrastructural development, economic growth, and regional cooperation that could serve as talking points in the 2028 campaign.
As the SLPP under Bio faces growing public dissatisfaction, the APC has the opportunity to position itself as a viable alternative capable of bringing about change. The current economic crisis, with high inflation, unemployment, and widening inequality, presents a significant opening for the APC to address issues that resonate with the common voter.
The SLPP under President Julius Maada Bio was re-elected in 2023, largely based on promises of economic development, educational reform, and anti-corruption measures. While the Bio administration has indeed made strides in areas such as education with its Free Quality Education initiative, its overall performance has been marred by widespread discontent over the state of the economy, the high cost of living, and allegations of corruption.
One of the most critical issues facing the SLPP is the economic downturn. With inflation reaching record highs and the local currency, the Leone, rapidly depreciating, many Sierra Leoneans feel that their economic prospects have diminished under Bio’s leadership. This has translated into frustration across social and political lines, providing the APC with a golden opportunity to exploit these weaknesses by offering pragmatic economic solutions and a vision of growth and prosperity.
Moreover, Bio’s second term has seen rising authoritarian tendencies, including crackdowns on protests, limitations on press freedom, and tensions between his administration and civil society. These actions have alienated sections of the electorate, particularly the youth, who are increasingly vocal about their demands for jobs, freedom, and opportunity.
The SLPP will also have to contend with internal divisions as President Bio completes his second and final term. With no clear successor, the party may face power struggles, factionalism, and a lack of a unifying vision that could weaken its appeal to the electorate in 2028.
Several factors contribute to the APC’s chances of victory in 2028. To begin with, the party has the opportunity to present itself as a rejuvenated, reformist alternative to the SLPP. By addressing the key grievances of the electorate—economic hardship, youth unemployment, regional inequalities, and poor governance—the APC can resonate with a broad spectrum of voters, including those who may have previously supported the SLPP but have become disillusioned with Bio’s administration.
Additionally, the APC’s chances of victory hinge on its ability to craft a clear, forward-thinking, and inclusive vision for Sierra Leone. This vision must be anchored in practical solutions to the country’s economic challenges. The APC should focus on promising policies that prioritize economic growth, job creation, the promotion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and strategies to reduce the country’s reliance on foreign aid. By committing to fiscal responsibility and transparent governance, the party can regain the trust of voters who may be skeptical about its past governance failures.
Moreover, the APC’s ability to unite its internal factions will be crucial. While the party has faced divisions in recent years, particularly following its defeat in the 2018 and 2023 elections, the 2028 elections provide an opportunity for unity and renewal. A united APC, with a charismatic and capable leader at the helm, can present a formidable challenge to the SLPP.
One of the most critical decisions the APC will need to make ahead of the 2028 elections is the selection of its flagbearer. The choice of candidate will significantly influence the party’s chances of success, as the flagbearer will need to inspire confidence not only within the party but also among the electorate.
A strong candidate will need to be someone with a clear vision for Sierra Leone’s future, an impeccable track record of public service, and the ability to rally both the party’s traditional base and undecided voters. The flagbearer must also be seen as someone who can lead the country with integrity, accountability, and a commitment to tackling the country’s pressing challenges.
Several candidates have emerged as potential flagbearers for the APC in 2028, each with their own strengths and appeal. Let us examine some of the leading contenders and their prospects for leading the party to victory.
Dr. Samura Kamara is a seasoned politician with extensive experience in governance, finance, and diplomacy. Having served as the APC’s flagbearer in both the 2018 and 2023 elections, Kamara remains one of the most prominent figures within the party. His expertise in economic management, coupled with his international experience, positions him as a credible candidate who can offer solutions to Sierra Leone’s economic challenges.
Kamara’s previous experience as Minister of Finance and Foreign Affairs, as well as his tenure as Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, make him well-versed in the complexities of the country’s economic and financial systems. His pragmatic approach to economic policy, focused on growth and stability, could resonate with voters who are tired of economic mismanagement under the SLPP.
However, having run twice and lost, Kamara may face resistance within the party from those who believe that new leadership is needed to bring fresh energy and ideas to the APC. Nonetheless, Kamara’s deep knowledge of governance and his reputation as a technocrat make him a strong contender for the APC’s flagbearer in 2028.
Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, commonly known as JFK, is another potential flagbearer for the APC. As a former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Kamara is widely regarded as one of the country’s leading legal minds. His tenure as head of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) earned him a reputation for integrity, transparency, and a commitment to good governance.
JFK’s appeal lies in his ability to bridge the gap between the party’s base and younger, more reform-minded voters who are looking for a candidate with a fresh vision for Sierra Leone. His focus on the rule of law, anti-corruption measures, and good governance could provide a stark contrast to the SLPP’s perceived failures in these areas.
Kamara’s candidacy would likely appeal to voters who are seeking a leader with a strong moral compass and a track record of fighting corruption. His ability to project a message of renewal and reform could energize the APC’s campaign and help the party reconnect with voters who may have become disillusioned with traditional politics.
Hon. Chernor Maju Bah, also known as Chericoco, is the current Deputy Leader of the APC and a prominent figure within the party. As a Member of Parliament and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Bah has played a key role in shaping the APC’s legislative agenda and connecting with grassroots supporters.
Chericoco’s strengths lie in his ability to mobilize the APC’s traditional base, particularly in the western and northern regions of the country. His work in parliament and his connection with the youth make him a popular figure within the party. However, like JFK, he would need to demonstrate that he can lead the party beyond its traditional strongholds and appeal to a wider electorate.
Bah’s candidacy would likely focus on economic development, youth empowerment, and governance reform, all of which are key issues for the electorate in 2028. His ability to connect with both urban and rural voters could make him a formidable candidate for the APC.
Ade Macaulay, the former Anti-Corruption Commissioner, is another potential candidate who could emerge as a dark horse in the race for the APC’s flagbearer. Macaulay’s tenure as head of the ACC earned him praise for his efforts to combat corruption and promote transparency in government. His legal expertise and commitment to good governance make him an attractive candidate for voters who are looking for a APC Will Win the 2028 Elections: Examining Opportunities, Chances, and the Path to Victory (continued) candidate who can clean up the government and restore integrity to Sierra Leone’s political system. Although he lacks the deep political experience of some of his competitors, Macaulay’s background in law and governance could make him an appealing choice for voters who prioritize anti-corruption efforts and public accountability.
Macaulay’s potential candidacy would likely focus on restoring public trust in government, ensuring transparency in public administration, and reducing the opportunities for corrupt practices within government institutions. He could position himself as an outsider to the established political class, which could attract voters disillusioned with both the APC’s and SLPP’s past governance.
However, Macaulay will need to build broader name recognition and demonstrate that he can lead a major political party in a general election campaign. His relatively low political profile compared to candidates like Dr. Samura Kamara and JFK may present a challenge, but his reputation for integrity could give him an edge in a political landscape craving genuine change.
To win the 2028 elections, the APC must adopt a multifaceted strategy that capitalizes on its strengths while addressing the key challenges it faces. The party will need to:
Unify Internal Factions: One of the biggest threats to the APC’s success in 2028 is internal division. Factionalism and competing interests have long been a feature of Sierra Leonean politics, and the APC must ensure that it presents a united front ahead of the elections. The selection of a flagbearer should be a transparent and inclusive process that avoids alienating key stakeholders within the party. Once a candidate is chosen, the entire party machinery must rally behind them to present a cohesive, unified platform.
Craft a Clear Economic Agenda: The economy will be one of the most important issues for voters in 2028. With many Sierra Leoneans struggling under the weight of inflation, unemployment, and poverty, the APC must present a robust economic plan that addresses these concerns. This should include policies aimed at creating jobs, improving infrastructure, supporting small and medium-sized businesses, and reducing reliance on foreign aid. A clear economic vision, combined with practical solutions, will be essential to win over undecided voters.
Target Youth and First-Time Voters: Sierra Leone has a young population, and first-time voters will play a critical role in determining the outcome of the 2028 elections. The APC must make a concerted effort to reach out to youth through policies that prioritize education, job creation, and youth empowerment. The party should also harness the power of social media and digital platforms to engage with younger voters and articulate a vision for their future. Candidates like JFK and Chericoco, with their appeal to the youth, will be instrumental in this effort.
Address the Issue of Corruption: The SLPP’s perceived failures in addressing corruption present an opportunity for the APC to position itself as the party of transparency and accountability. The APC must offer a compelling narrative about how it will tackle corruption at all levels of government. By emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for graft and outlining specific anti-corruption measures, the party can appeal to voters who are tired of the status quo and seek real change.
Reconnect with Disillusioned Voters: Many voters who supported the APC in the past have become disillusioned due to the party’s internal struggles and governance failures. The 2028 election presents an opportunity for the APC to reconnect with these voters by offering a message of renewal and reform. The party must acknowledge its past mistakes while outlining a bold new direction that prioritizes good governance, economic development, and social justice.
Build a Broad Coalition: While the APC has traditionally relied on its support base in the north and west of the country, the party must expand its reach to other regions, particularly the south and east, which have been strongholds for the SLPP. Building alliances with regional leaders, civil society groups, and influential figures outside the party’s traditional base will be crucial in broadening the APC’s appeal. A candidate who can transcend regional and ethnic divisions will be key to securing a nationwide victory.
Focus on Inclusive Governance: Sierra Leoneans are increasingly calling for inclusive governance that reflects the country’s diverse population. The APC must demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity by selecting candidates from various regions and ethnic groups for key positions, and by promoting policies that address the needs of all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of their background. Inclusive governance, coupled with efforts to reduce regional inequalities, will help the APC build a broad, diverse coalition of support.
The 2028 elections represent a critical juncture for the APC, as it seeks to return to power after a decade in opposition. While the party faces significant challenges, including internal divisions and the need to regain public trust, it also has substantial opportunities. The SLPP’s weaknesses, particularly on economic issues, provide the APC with a platform to present itself as a viable alternative capable of delivering growth, stability, and good governance.
The key to the APC’s success will lie in its ability to select a strong, capable flagbearer who can unite the party and resonate with a broad cross-section of voters. Whether it is Dr. Samura Kamara’s technocratic expertise, JFK’s reputation for integrity, Chericoco’s grassroots appeal, or Ade Macaulay’s anti-corruption credentials, the APC has a range of potential leaders who can carry the party to victory.
Ultimately, the APC’s chances in 2028 will depend on its ability to articulate a compelling vision for Sierra Leone’s future—one that addresses the pressing concerns of the electorate while offering a clear, actionable plan for economic recovery, social progress, and national unity. If the APC can effectively mobilize its support base, reach out to new constituencies, and present a united front, the 2028 elections could mark the party’s triumphant return to power.
As Sierra Leone gears up for the 2028 general elections, the APC stands at a crossroads. With the right strategy, leadership, and message, the party has a genuine opportunity to reclaim the presidency and lead the country into a new era of prosperity and reform. The challenges ahead are significant, but the opportunities are equally immense. By addressing the key issues facing Sierra Leoneans—economic hardship, unemployment, corruption, and governance failures—the APC can position itself as the party of the future.
The selection of a flagbearer will be pivotal, as the chosen candidate will need to inspire confidence within the party and across the electorate. Whether it is through experienced leadership, a focus on good governance, or a commitment to economic revival, the APC has the potential to win the hearts and minds of Sierra Leoneans in 2028.
If the APC can seize this moment and execute a winning strategy, the 2028 elections may well be the turning point that brings the party back into power and sets Sierra Leone on a path to greater stability, progress, and unity.
