By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Acting National Chairman of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), Ambassador Osman Foday Yansanneh, has confidently declared that the APC is poised to defeat whoever is chosen as the flag bearer of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in the upcoming 2028 general elections.
Speaking during the opening of the SLPP National Delegates’ Conference held at the Bintumani Conference Centre Aberdeen in Freetown, Alhaji Ambassador Yansanneh’s remarks sparked attention across the political spectrum. His presence at the ruling party’s major gathering symbolized a growing maturity in Sierra Leone’s democratic process and was widely interpreted as a sign of national political tolerance and dialogue.
“The APC is ready to take over governance in 2028,” Alhaji Yansanneh said. “It does not matter who the SLPP selects as its flag bearer. Whoever it is will be defeated at the polls.” He emphasized that the next election will be different and called on all political stakeholders to prioritize the country’s interest above partisan considerations.
According to the APC’s Acting National Chairman, the quality of leadership that citizens elect will directly reflect on the kind of governance they receive. He stressed the importance of electing individuals who are not only competent but committed to national development and unity.
Alhaji Ambassador Yansanneh’s comments come at a critical time when the SLPP is preparing to elect its next executive following the end of President Julius Maada Bio’s second and final term. While the ruling party has not yet officially endorsed a candidate, internal discussions and lobbying have intensified, with various figures positioning themselves as potential successors.
The 2028 election is expected to be a high-stakes political contest, with both major parties seeking to consolidate power in a country still grappling with economic challenges, youth unemployment, and governance reforms.
People described Alhaji Ambassador Osman Foday Yansanneh’s attendance at the SLPP conference as a milestone in Sierra Leone’s political journey. Despite being the leader of the main opposition APC, his participation demonstrated a willingness to engage in democratic processes and a commitment to peaceful political dialogue. It also underscored the evolving political culture, where dialogue and mutual respect are beginning to replace confrontation and division.
Alhaji Ambassador Yansanneh used the platform to encourage unity, transparency, and inclusivity in political leadership. He noted that Sierra Leoneans deserve leaders who are selfless and focused on improving lives, rather than individuals who seek office for personal gain.
While his strong remarks drew mixed reactions from SLPP supporters at the event, many acknowledged the significance of having an opposition leader attend such a high-profile gathering. Political analysts believe this could mark a turning point in inter-party relations ahead of the next electoral cycle.
As the country heads toward 2028, all eyes will be on both the APC and SLPP, with the race for leadership expected to intensify. Alhaji Ambassador Yansanneh’s bold prediction has set the tone for what many believe will be a fiercely contested and pivotal election in Sierra Leone’s democratic history.
