By Umaru Jah
In the busy streets of Freetown, conversations about politics are never far away. From the business stalls on Kissy Road to the market at Kroo Town Road, people are talking about the state of the country, their daily struggles, and the kind of leadership Sierra Leone needs. As Dr. Ibrahim Bangura’s message of unity and discipline begins to take hold within the All People’s Congress (APC), many are starting to reflect on how that message connects to their own hopes for the future.
After months of working to promote his campaign across Europe, being on the ground now gives a new perspective on how his ideas are reaching ordinary Sierra Leoneans. The themes he often highlights, such as organisation, planning, and shared responsibility, are reflected in the way people talk about their expectations and their desire for a more focused and disciplined party.
At a small gathering in the east end of Freetown, a group of young people spoke about their desire to see politics become a force for genuine change. One of them, a young mechanic named Abdul, said he admires Dr. Bangura’s insistence on structure and unity within the party. “We are tired of confusion,” he said. “We need leaders who plan carefully. If APC can be organised, people will believe again.”
Similar feelings echo in conversations across the city. Traders, students, Kekeh and taxi drivers alike, express fatigue with the cycles of mistrust that often define political life. What they want is a kind of leadership that focuses on results and fairness. Dr. Bangura’s approach, built on discipline and direction, seems to be connecting with those who have grown skeptical about promises that are never fulfilled.
In Lumley, an elderly woman who runs a small provisions shop said she followed the recent Frankfurt campaign launch of Dr Ibrahim through relatives abroad. “I like how he talks about unity,” she said. “When people come together, things can move. That’s what this country needs.” Her words reflect a growing understanding that unity, while often spoken about, remains the missing ingredient in both party and national politics.
That same message was at the centre of attention on Thursday, November 6, at the APC headquarters in Freetown, where Dr. Bangura made a donation to the APC Regional Executive of the North-West toward the construction of the Bai Burreh Hall in Port Loko. The event drew a large crowd, with the party office filled beyond capacity as supporters gathered to witness what many described as a meaningful and unifying gesture.
During his remarks, Dr. Bangura said he had earlier contacted the party’s national leadership so he could reach the North-West regional executives and make his contribution of five hundred million Leones in support of the Bai Burreh Hall project. He explained that this initiative came from a sense of shared duty, urging members and supporters to take ownership of efforts that strengthen the APC. He called on all who believe in the party to dedicate their time, energy, and resources to its growth and unity.
He added that the party’s progress should be built from within rather than through outside help. Rebuilding projects like the Bai Burreh Hall, he said, represent self-help and community spirit, a reflection of the party’s history and the pride of its people.
His words drew strong applause, and the atmosphere in the hall was filled with enthusiasm and renewed optimism. Many in attendance saw the donation as more than a financial gesture; it represented a call for commitment, showing that collective effort is the path to rebuilding both the party and the nation.
After the ceremony at the party headquarters, Dr. Bangura continued his engagements with a visit to the APC Western Rural Executive in Waterloo. The meeting attracted a large turnout, with the grounds filled by party members, supporters, and community representatives who came to welcome him.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Bangura said he had come not to campaign but to formally present himself to the Western Rural Executive. He reminded members that the APC is one family built on respect, love, and humility, and that only through those values can unity be sustained. He urged all to continue respecting the party’s leadership and one another, noting that he has always served the leaders of the APC and remains committed to doing so. He emphasized that only one person will ultimately become the flagbearer, and what matters most is maintaining peace and cooperation within the party. Dr. Bangura spoke with sincerity about his service to Sierra Leone, describing himself as a proud son of the country who values peace, security, stability, and development. His remarks were warmly received, and many in attendance saw the meeting as a moment that strengthened understanding and reinforced the spirit of togetherness within the APC.
Within the APC, there is growing confidence that a new spirit of cooperation is emerging. Senior members speak of the need for discipline and preparation, while younger members focus on participation and trust. Dr. Bangura’s call for structure and unity continues to inspire those who believe the APC’s revival depends on internal strength and shared responsibility.
Walking through downtown Freetown, one senses both hardship and hope. The city bears the marks of economic struggle, yet there is resilience everywhere. People talk about the challenges of daily life, but they also express belief that things can improve with the right leadership. It is in these quiet conversations that Dr. Bangura’s message of unity and cooperation finds meaning.
For now, what defines his engagement is consistent actions that reflect his words. The hope many express in Freetown is simple: a politics that listens, a party that prepares, and leaders who mean what they say. It is this hope that gives life to Dr. Bangura’s message and continues to shape the next chapter of his journey within the APC and across Sierra Leone.
