By Forum staff writer
The aftermath of the Sierra Leone People’s Party National Delegate Conference has opened a new chapter in the party’s internal politics, one marked by growing tension, public disagreements and quiet power struggles. While the SLPP remains the ruling party, many observers believe that if these internal dynamics continue unchecked, its chances of retaining power in 2028 could be seriously weakened.
At the heart of the current debate is a statement attributed to the First Lady, Madam Fatima Bio, in which she reportedly suggested that the party’s Secretary General is more powerful than the elected National Chairman, Jimmy Batilo Songa. Whether intended or not, the comment sparked widespread misunderstanding and unease, both within the party and among the general public. In a party that prides itself on structure, hierarchy and collective discipline, such a statement raised fundamental questions about authority and influence.
The situation has been further complicated by the widely known strained relationship between the First Lady and the SLPP Chairman. Their lack of harmony has become a recurring topic in political discussions, feeding perceptions of division at the very top of the party. For grassroots supporters who look to the leadership for unity and direction, these signals are troubling. A party preparing for succession should be projecting cohesion, not internal rivalry.
Beyond the national leadership, regional dynamics have also revealed fault lines. In the Eastern Region, tensions reached a point where the intervention of Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh became necessary. His visit and engagement with party stakeholders helped to calm the situation and restore a level of peace. However, the fact that such intervention was required highlights deeper unresolved issues. Rumours of infighting between the Secretary General and the Chairman in the region continue to circulate, suggesting that the peace achieved may be fragile rather than permanent.
Another sensitive issue within the SLPP is the reportedly strained working relationship between the Chief Minister, Dr David Sengeh, and the First Lady. While both figures are influential in their own right, any perception of discord between them sends the wrong message to party members and supporters. In a political environment where loyalty and alignment matter greatly, such tensions can easily be exploited by opponents and can weaken internal trust.
Taken together, these developments paint a picture of a party struggling to manage its internal affairs at a critical moment. President Julius Maada Bio is nearing the end of his constitutional tenure, and the question of who succeeds him looms large. Instead of a clear process guided by unity and shared vision, the SLPP is facing speculation, factional interests and competing centres of influence. This uncertainty risks creating confusion among supporters and potential candidates alike.
History has shown that ruling parties often lose power not because of the strength of the opposition, but because of internal divisions that erode public confidence. For the SLPP, the lesson is clear. Maintaining power beyond 2028 will require more than past achievements in governance. It will demand deliberate efforts to heal rifts, clarify roles and reaffirm respect for party structures.
If the SLPP leadership can rise above personal differences and prioritise collective interest, the party still has a strong foundation to build on. However, if the current infighting continues to dominate the narrative, it may well shape the outcome of the next election in ways the party cannot afford. The road to 2028 has begun, and unity may prove to be the SLPP’s most valuable political asset.
