By Hassan Osman Kargbo
As the All People’s Congress (APC) gears up for its crucial Flagbearer Convention in early 2026, Hon. Bai Mahmoud Bangura (BMB) is emerging as a frontrunner whose candidacy symbolizes unity, grassroots empowerment, and a forward-looking vision for Sierra Leone.
Known for his unwavering commitment to the party’s core values and deep connection to ordinary citizens, Hon. Bangura has positioned himself as a leader capable of revitalizing the APC, bridging internal divides, and appealing to a broad base of Sierra Leoneans ahead of the 2028 national elections.
Bangura’s political journey and leadership record reflect a consistent dedication to social justice, good governance, and inclusive development. Unlike many traditional politicians whose influence is concentrated within elite circles, Bangura’s strength lies in his grassroots credibility. He has spent years building trust across communities, particularly among youth, women, market traders, farmers, and local leaders—groups often overlooked in mainstream political discourse.
Supporters within the APC say Hon. Bangura represents the hopes and aspirations of the party’s base. “He is not just another politician seeking power,” said one party delegate from the Northern Region. “Bai Mahmoud is one of us. He listens, he understands, and more importantly, he acts.”
At the heart of Bangura’s vision for the APC are three pillars: party unity, youth and women empowerment, and sustainable development. Recognizing the fractures that have plagued the party in recent years, he has taken proactive steps to promote reconciliation among key party elders and stakeholders. His inclusive approach has been praised for helping to restore trust and lay the groundwork for a more cohesive and strategically aligned APC.
In his engagements with the public, Bangura emphasizes issues that resonate with everyday Sierra Leoneans: job creation, access to quality education, and improved healthcare. These policy priorities, according to political analysts, not only align with the needs of the electorate but also reflect a comprehensive vision for national transformation.
His accessibility and humility continue to set him apart. Whether attending community meetings in rural districts or holding listening sessions with youth groups in urban centres, Bangura maintains an open-door approach. This, according to his supporters, is what makes him relatable and trustworthy.
As momentum builds toward the 2026 Flagbearer Convention, many within the APC view Bangura as the candidate best positioned to unite the party and energize its base. His broad appeal across regional and demographic lines is seen as a major asset in the party’s strategy to reclaim power in 2028.
“Hon. Bangura embodies the spirit of a people-centred leader,” said a political commentator in Freetown. “He’s not just about political rhetoric—he has a track record and a grassroots connection that few in his party can match.”
Party insiders suggest that if selected as flagbearer, Bangura’s campaign will focus heavily on mobilizing youth and women, who together make up the majority of Sierra Leone’s population. His leadership style, rooted in dialogue and partnership, is also expected to attract independent voters and those disillusioned with traditional politics.
As the APC prepares for what is shaping up to be a highly competitive convention, Bai Mahmoud Bangura stands out not just as a candidate, but as a movement—one that seeks to restore hope, rebuild the party, and reimagine Sierra Leone’s future with the people at the centre.
With strong grassroots momentum and a message of unity, empowerment, and development, Hon. Bangura may very well be the figure who leads the APC into a new era.
