The All People’s Congress (APC) stands at a defining moment in Sierra Leone’s political history. After the controversial 2023 elections, where accusations of vote-rigging, electoral fraud, and state interference dominated the conversation, the party now faces a crucial question: Will they allow history to repeat itself in 2028? Can the APC afford another manipulated defeat at the hands of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), or will they rise to reclaim the power their supporters believe was stolen from them?
If the APC is to remain a viable political force, it cannot afford another election loss under questionable circumstances. The stakes are too high—not just for the party, but for Sierra Leone as a whole. If the APC does not take decisive action now moving forward, the country risks of falling deeper into economic decline, political instability, and one-party dominance under an SLPP government that many believe has mastered the art of electoral manipulation.
The 2023 election’s hard lesson exposed the APC’s vulnerabilities. Despite having strong nationwide support, the party was outmaneuvered by an SLPP government that had strategically positioned itself to control key institutions. The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), security forces, and the Sierra Leone Judiciary were allegedly stacked with ruling party loyalists, making it nearly impossible for the APC to challenge the election results effectively.
Instead of putting up a strong resistance, the APC found itself divided and unprepared. Internal conflicts and disorganization played right into the SLPP’s hands, weakening the party’s ability to mobilize against electoral fraud. Even as allegations of vote-rigging surfaced, the APC leadership appeared slow and hesitant, failing to take the bold steps necessary to safeguard their supporters’ votes.
The APC party cannot afford to enter 2028 with the same complacency. If they do, they risk not only another electoral defeat but also the total erosion of their credibility as an opposition force.
2028 polls is a battle for political survival and the APC reclaiming power— it is about political survival. A second consecutive loss under dubious circumstances could lead to widespread disillusionment among supporters, many of whom already feel betrayed by the party’s failure to protect their votes in 2023.
The APC party must recognize the facts that winning elections in Sierra Leone is not just about popularity—it’s about strategy, vigilance, and proactive engagement. The party cannot afford to wait until election day to start fighting. They must lay the groundwork now, ensuring that every loophole that allowed electoral fraud in 2023 is closed before 2028.
One of the biggest weaknesses of the APC in recent years has been internal division. While the party commands significant support, its leadership struggles to present a united front. Factional disputes, leadership rivalries, and conflicting ambitions have weakened the APC’s ability to mount a strong opposition. If the party wants to win in 2028, it must set aside personal differences and focus on the collective goal of removing the SLPP from power. Senior party figures, including flagbearer hopefuls and other influential leaders, must recognize that disunity is the greatest gift they can give to their opponents.
The SLPP has thrived on APC’s internal struggles, using them to create distractions and weaken the opposition’s influence. If APC leaders cannot unite now, they will enter 2028 as a fractured and ineffective force—making it easier for the SLPP to manipulate the elections once again. The APC cannot afford to enter another election where the SLPP controls every key electoral institution. The party must take aggressive steps to ensure that the 2028 elections are free and fair. This includes: –
The APC must demand changes to the electoral system, ensuring that NEC operates independently and that voter registration is transparent. If they fail to push for reforms now, they will face the same obstacles in 2028.
One of the major failures of 2023 was the inability of APC polling agents to effectively safeguard votes. In 2028, the party must ensure that its agents are well-trained, well-equipped, and ready to prevent any attempts at manipulation.
APC supporters must be prepared to protect their votes, not meaning resorting to violence, but it does mean being vigilant and proactive. Every voter should know their rights and be ready to report any suspicious activities.
The APC must seek international oversight to prevent another stolen election. Organizations like ECOWAS, the African Union, and Western democracies should be called upon to ensure transparency. The more international scrutiny the elections receive, the harder it will be for the SLPP to manipulate the results.
Why the SLPP Will Try to Rig Again
The SLPP is well aware that a free and fair election in 2028 would likely lead to their downfall. Widespread economic hardship, corruption scandals, and growing public dissatisfaction have weakened their support base. They know that the only way to hold onto power is to control the electoral process, a reason why they will likely use the same tactics as in 2023—manipulating voter registration, intimidating opposition supporters, and using state institutions to influence the results. The APC must not be naïve. They must anticipate these moves and have counterstrategies in place.
The APC cannot afford to enter 2028 with a passive approach. They must adopt an aggressive, strategic, and fearless mindset.
The party must ensure that its supporters are properly registered and mobilized. Every vote will count.
Early Legal Action: Instead of waiting until after the elections to challenge fraud, the APC must take legal action the moment irregularities arise.
Effective Communication: The party must use media platforms to expose any electoral malpractice and keep the public informed.
Empowering the Youth: Young voters will play a decisive role in 2028. The APC must actively engage them and make them a core part of their campaign.
Will APC Allow Another Election to Be Stolen?
The 2028 elections will determine the future of the APC and Sierra Leone’s democracy. If the party does not take bold action now, it risks allowing another manipulated victory that will further entrench the SLPP in power.
APC supporters are tired of stolen elections. They want leadership that is willing to fight for their votes, not just complain after losing. The time for passive opposition is over. The APC must rise to the challenge, confront electoral fraud head-on, and ensure that 2028 does not become another stolen opportunity.
The real question is no longer whether the APC can afford another defeat—it is whether they will allow it to happen again.
