By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a powerful address delivered at the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) National Delegates Conference on Wednesday, President Julius Maada Bio called on party members to demonstrate unity, loyalty, and political maturity as the party prepares for the future. Speaking at the Bintumani Conference Hall in Freetown, President Bio emphasized the need for reconciliation and cooperation, regardless of the outcomes of internal contests.
“As your Leader, I know firsthand both the joy of victory and the pain of loss,” President Bio told the large gathering of delegates, party stalwarts, and executive members. “I have contested and lost elections. I have contested and won elections. Through it all, I remained loyal to this Party.”
The President’s remarks were met with resounding applause from delegates, many of whom had travelled from across the country to attend the crucial meeting. His speech struck a chord, especially as the party navigates its internal processes to strengthen structures ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Calling on those who would emerge victorious in various elective positions within the party, President Bio advised them to lead with humility and an open heart. “To those who would win, I say: Be magnanimous. Have the wisdom to unite and the courage to embrace your opponents,” he said.
At the same time, he appealed to those who may not be successful to accept defeat with dignity. “To those who would not win, I say: Be gracious. Have the courage to bridge divides and work for the common good of our Party.”
President Bio stressed that the SLPP, a party with a long and proud history, must continue to serve as a beacon of democracy and leadership for the nation. He reminded the audience that political contests within the party are not ends in themselves, but a means to strengthen internal democracy and present a united front to the people of Sierra Leone.
“Let us not lose sight of the bigger picture,” he urged. “To all of us, let us remain loyal to the Party, to its leadership, to our people, and to the promise of a more prosperous Sierra Leone.”
President Bio’s message comes at a critical time, as the SLPP seeks to consolidate its achievements over the past seven years in government while addressing economic, social, and governance challenges. His call for unity was widely seen as timely and necessary to maintain party cohesion.
Throughout his tenure, President Bio has emphasized the importance of institutional reforms, free and quality education, and national development. His leadership has been credited with navigating difficult moments, including the COVID-19 pandemic and economic shocks, while steering Sierra Leone on the path toward recovery.
Several senior members of the SLPP who spoke after the President’s address echoed his sentiments. Party Chairman Dr. Prince Harding described the President’s message as a “blueprint for political maturity and discipline,” urging delegates to put the party above personal ambition.
The conference also witnessed various discussions on party reorganization, grassroots mobilization, and the strengthening of women and youth wings. Delegates underscored the importance of inclusive participation and emphasized the need to prepare strategically for upcoming national elections.
As the event concluded, the energy in the room reflected a party determined to build on its legacy while charting a renewed path for the future. Many attendees expressed hope that the President’s words would guide party members in resolving differences, fostering dialogue, and working collectively toward national development.
President Bio’s message was not only a reminder of his personal political journey, but also a rallying call to ensure that the SLPP remains a strong, united, and visionary force in Sierra Leone’s political landscape.
With renewed energy and a unified spirit, the SLPP now turns its focus to strengthening its base and delivering on the aspirations of the Sierra Leonean people.
