By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Following back-to-back Presidential election defeats at the hands of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), questions are swirling around the political future of Dr. Samura Matthew Wilson Kamara — the veteran politician and two-time flagbearer of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC). As Sierra Leone inches toward another general election cycle in 2028, the APC is facing a defining moment: should it continue with the familiar face of Dr. Kamara, or turn to a new generation of leaders?
While some within the party believe the former Foreign Affairs Minister still has the gravitas and experience to lead, an increasing number of voices — especially among the party’s youth and reformist blocs — are calling for fresh leadership to steer the APC into a new political era.
Dr. Kamara, a seasoned technocrat who once served as Minister of Finance and later as Minister of Foreign Affairs during the Ernest Bai Koroma administration, was first elected as the APC’s Presidential candidate in 2018. He lost that election to then-opposition leader, Julius Maada Bio. In 2023, he returned to the ballot once more, but again failed to clinch the Presidency, prompting many within the party and beyond to question whether a third attempt is politically viable or even strategically wise.
“Dr. Samura has done his part,” said Alhaji Musa Tarawallie, an APC grassroots coordinator in Port Loko. “He gave it his all, but maybe it’s time for a new face, someone with a broader national appeal and energy to rebrand our party,” Tarawallie noted
In addition, despite the setbacks, rumors persist that Dr. Kamara is quietly positioning himself for yet another Presidential run in 2028. Close aides have neither confirmed nor denied these speculations, but recent public appearances and subtle political posturing suggest that the 72-year-old politician may not be ready to bow out just yet.
“He still believes he has unfinished business,” said a senior APC member, who asked to remain anonymous. “But the party is deeply divided on this. While some see him as the elder statesman who can keep the party united, others think a third run would only deepen internal rifts.”
Indeed, many fear that if Dr. Kamara pushes forward with another bid, it could spark internal conflicts within the APC, especially among aspirants who feel they now deserve a chance to lead. The party’s young leaders, in particular, are advocating for a generational shift.
Furthermore, the APC, having ruled Sierra Leone for a decade before its 2018 defeat, is now in a delicate period of reinvention. With the 2028 general election on the horizon, the party must decide whether to cling to familiar strategies or chart a new course.
Party insiders have confirmed that several credible contenders are already gearing up to contest for the flagbearer position. Among the names being floated are Dr. Richard Conteh, Dr. Sylvia Blyden, and Lawyer Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara — all of whom have served in previous APC administrative role and are viewed as potential standard-bearers for a more modern and inclusive APC.
“What the APC needs now is someone who can energize the base, appeal to swing voters, and build alliances across the regions,” said political analyst Aminata Kallon. “Dr. Samura’s legacy is respected, but politics is a game of timing. His moment may have passed.”
If Dr. Kamara does not run, he could still play a crucial role in shaping the future of the APC — perhaps as a kingmaker, senior adviser, or mentor to the next generation. His experience in governance and international diplomacy could also make him a candidate for a regional or continental role in institutions like the African Union or ECOWAS.
There is also speculation that Dr. Kamara could pivot toward academia or think-tank work, contributing to national discourse from outside the political arena. His long resume and diplomatic networks make him a strong candidate for such endeavors.
“He has more to offer Sierra Leone beyond politics,” said Mr. Bangura, a senior teacher. “But it requires him to recognize that leadership also comes in different forms — not just from State House.”
For now, Dr. Kamara remains tight-lipped about his future, offering only vague references to “continuing the fight for the people” in his recent public speeches. But within the APC, the debate is heating up — and a decision will need to be made soon.
As the opposition prepares to mount what it hopes will be a successful return to power, the question of who leads that charge could make or break its chances. Will the APC take a bold step toward renewal, or will it once again turn to its familiar flagbearer for one last battle? Only time and party delegates — will tell.
