The United Methodist Church, The Kechers, hosted its annual men’s thanksgiving service on Sunday, where Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, the leading Presidential candidate of the All People’s Congress (APC) Party for the 2028 general elections, was honoured as Grand Chief Patron. Three other distinguished guests were also recognized at the event, but it was Dr. Bangura’s heartfelt speech that captured the attention of both the congregation and the media.
The atmosphere was filled with hymns, gratitude, and joy as the event turned into a moment of reflection and national appeal. In his address, Dr. Bangura called on the government, the church, and communities across Sierra Leone to unite in tackling one of the nation’s most pressing challenges, the growing drug epidemic known as “kush.” He announced the formal launch of his campaign titled “Kick Kush Out of Sierra Leone,” which aims to eliminate the devastating influence of the substance destroying the lives of many young people.
“There is a campaign we launched at Kenema called Kick Kush Out of Sierra Leone. It’s a menace to our society that has destroyed homes. Please, as a community, let’s join hands together with us and the government to make sure we kick kush out of this country,” he said to loud applause from the congregation. He continued, “Secondly, I implore you to pray for Sierra Leone. We only have one country, and if we watch it destroyed, there will be nothing left for us. This is our home. Let’s make sure we inculcate the culture of peace, love, tranquility, and serenity. This is our country, this is where we call home, this is where we stay. I will do everything within my capacity to ensure that I contribute meaningfully to the progress and development of this country.”
In a lighter moment that drew smiles and laughter from the audience, Dr. Bangura reflected on his recognition and said, “I came here and I was crowned. I told myself that’s a sign of good things to come.” He went on to award scholarships to children of the church and made a generous financial contribution to the men’s association hosting the thanksgiving service, emphasizing his commitment to supporting community growth and empowerment.
