Tonkolili District roared to life on Sunday as the panoramic motorcade of APC flagbearer aspirant, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, swept into the Magburaka Town Field to a thunderous, carnival-style welcome. Drumbeats, cheers, and red-and-white banners filled the air as thousands turned out to receive a man many in the district now affectionately call “their own.”
Taking the stage after an electrifying entry, Dr. Bangura told the crowd that being in Tonkolili felt like coming “full circle.” He spoke with warmth and affection, noting that his connection to the district runs deeper than politics; his stepmother hails from Tonkolili, he has long worked with sons and daughters of the district, and the people of Tonkolili were among the first to embrace his national movement. “Tonkolili,” he said, “is not just strategic on the map; it is strategic in my heart.”
In his address, Dr. Bangura celebrated the energy and unity displayed by people from all walks of life, describing the reception as a powerful sign that the spirit of Sierra Leone is alive in Tonkolili. He highlighted the district’s unique geographic value – its road network linking nearly seven other districts – and emphasized how improving these connections could transform daily life for ordinary citizens. He also underscored Tonkolili’s rich agricultural potential, calling for massive investment to strengthen food security and reduce hunger across the nation.
The APC frontrunner did not shy away from the country’s challenges. He lamented the persistent problems of electricity shortages, poor health systems, broken roads, poverty, and the widening gap between citizens and leadership. Sierra Leone, he stressed, “has a lot of work to do,” and only a united nation can push forward. “A country filled with division and rancor cannot progress,” he declared, urging every Sierra Leonean – regardless of region or party – to contribute to national development.
Dr. Bangura explained that his decision to contest for the APC flagbearership, and ultimately the presidency, is driven by a desire to touch and change lives, not to accumulate wealth or settle political scores. His campaign, he insisted, “is not about fighting the past but shaping the future.” He reaffirmed that he seeks to change the toxic, divisive nature of politics in Sierra Leone and replace it with respect, decency, and people-centered leadership.
In a moment of humility, he paid tribute to the APC District Chairman, his executive, and all party stakeholders in Tonkolili for their sacrifice and commitment. He urged the people to love their party but love Sierra Leone even more, reminding them, “Salone big pass party.”
As the sun dipped behind the hills of Magburaka and chants of “DIB! DIB! DIB!” echoed across the field, one thing became clear: Tonkolili had indeed gone “DIB Full Circle” – and the movement is gathering a momentum that even the dust of the motorcade could not settle.
DIB Movement Media & Comms Unit
