By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has imposed a ban on all forms of political campaigning for the party’s flagbearer position ahead of the 2028 general elections.
This disclosure was made by the SLPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Moses Mambu, during an exclusive interview with Liberty Online TV. Mambu’s statement comes in the wake of growing speculation that certain prominent members of the party, including government officials, have already begun quietly positioning themselves to contest for the flagbearer slot.
According to Mambu, the party’s leadership deemed it necessary to place restrictions on official campaigns to maintain focus on governance and unity. He clarified that while the ban stops members from making formal declarations or hosting campaign events, it does not extend to supporters who wish to express their opinions or preferences openly.
“No member of the SLPP should at this point declare their interest in becoming flagbearer or organize any official gathering for that purpose,” Mambu said. “However, we cannot stop ordinary supporters from dancing, singing, or showing support for whoever they believe could be the future candidate. What is important now is that party members themselves must respect the ban.”
The announcement is seen as a timely intervention aimed at preventing internal divisions within the ruling party. With over two years before the flagbearer race formally opens, analysts say early campaigns could distract from national governance and create unnecessary tension among party loyalists.
Mambu stressed that the SLPP’s decision is not targeted at any individual but is instead a blanket policy to preserve party cohesion. “There are always rumors, and people will speculate. Our job is to ensure that the party remains united, focused, and free from premature competition. When the right time comes, the party will formally open the space for aspirants,” he explained.
The SLPP, currently in government, is preparing for its next leadership contest following the tenure of President Julius Maada Bio, who will be completing his constitutional limit by 2028. The flagbearer race is expected to be highly competitive, with several high-profile figures rumoured to be eyeing the position.
For now, the leadership is keen to avoid the mistakes of early campaigning that have in the past led to rifts within political parties in Sierra Leone. “We want to make sure our members understand that governance comes first. The people of Sierra Leone expect delivery on promises, not early campaigning,” Mambu emphasized.
Political observers say the ruling party’s decision reflects an awareness of the risks of early succession battles. While grassroots supporters often begin lobbying for their preferred candidates years in advance, the official ban is intended to give the party space to concentrate on its responsibilities in office.
As the countdown to the 2028 elections gradually begins, all eyes will be on SLPP to see how long the ban will hold and whether members will abide by the directive.
For now, the message from the leadership is clear: the flagbearer race remains closed until the party officially declares otherwise.
