APC to Decide Soon

As Sierra Leone approaches a new political cycle, the choices made by its major political parties carry significant consequences not only for their internal futures but for the country’s broader democratic and governance trajectory. For the All People’s Congress (APC), the upcoming 2026 National Delegates Conference presents a critical juncture: the selection of a flagbearer who will represent the party’s ambitions to reclaim national leadership in the 2028 general elections. Among the leading figures under discussion is Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah—popularly known across Sierra Leone as Chericoco. His candidacy has drawn attention for several reasons that extend beyond internal party loyalties. His career, national profile, and political conduct raise important considerations about the kind of leadership Sierra Leone might expect in the years ahead. The APC’s recent history is shaped by cycles of triumph and setback. After its defeat in the 1996 elections and its slow rebuilding throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, the party’s victory in 2007 was a testament to resilience and organizational perseverance. Yet defeat in 2018 exposed underlying fractures, including questions about loyalty, internal solidarity, and public trust. Against this backdrop, many within the APC are now questioning whether leadership should be entrusted to figures whose commitment remained steady during adversity, or to those whose engagement has been more situational. In this context, Chericoco’s continuous presence and material support during the APC’s years out of power provide a strong contrast to aspirants whose political visibility has fluctuated with electoral fortunes. Beyond his internal party role, Chericoco occupies a unique space in Sierra Leone’s political imagination. Over the past two decades, he has become a nationally recognized figure, with a reputation for being accessible, charismatic, and relatable across different demographics. His support base is not confined to traditional APC strongholds; his connections span ethnic, regional, and social lines, a factor that could broaden the party’s appeal in a highly polarized political environment. Significantly, Chericoco’s public image has, so far, remained largely untainted by major corruption scandals—a distinguishing factor in a country where public disillusionment with political elites runs deep. His reputation for personal integrity, while no guarantee of future governance outcomes, nonetheless provides a platform from which the APC could credibly argue for a renewal of trust between politicians and the electorate. Experience in governance is another major factor that will weigh heavily on delegate considerations. As a three-term Member of Parliament, a former Deputy Speaker, and the immediate past Majority Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Chericoco brings substantial legislative experience. He is well-versed in parliamentary procedures, public policy debates, and constituency engagement. These experiences position him not merely as an electoral candidate but as a potential head of state who understands both the operational demands of governance and the nuances of political negotiation. At a time when effective governance remains one of Sierra Leone’s most urgent needs, familiarity with legislative processes and public administration could prove crucial in restoring confidence in political institutions. One of the most profound challenges facing Sierra Leone today is the need for national cohesion. Ethnic, regional, and political tensions have often been exacerbated during electoral cycles, undermining development efforts and social trust. In this regard, a flagbearer who commands respect across party lines, and who is perceived as a moderating and unifying figure, offers not just political advantages but national significance. Chericoco’s personal and political background—spanning diverse relationships across different districts, his cultural accessibility, and his visible engagement with youth and marginalized groups—positions him as a figure who could bridge some of the country’s growing divides. His likability across age groups and communities makes him a potentially stabilizing force in a fragile political climate. Ultimately, the APC’s decision in 2026 is more than an internal contest; it is a reflection of the party’s broader strategic orientation. Will the APC prioritize loyalty, experience, and national acceptability in its leadership selection? Or will it focus on short-term calculations that may yield immediate results but undermine long-term credibility? The choice will also signal to Sierra Leoneans whether the country’s political parties are willing to respond to the public’s growing demand for integrity, effective leadership, and unity—or whether entrenched habits of political opportunism will continue to dominate. “The stakes of the APC’s 2026 leadership decision extend far beyond party politics — they will shape Sierra Leone’s political landscape for years to come.” For Sierra Leone itself, the outcome of the 2026 APC leadership contest has implications beyond the party. In a political system where opposition parties play critical roles in accountability, policy development, and national dialogue, the strength and integrity of opposition leadership directly impacts the overall quality of governance, regardless of which party holds power. If the APC selects a leader capable of broad appeal, constructive engagement, and credible governance, it could contribute positively to Sierra Leone’s fragile democratic project. If, however, short-term alliances and factional interests prevail, the party risks further alienating itself from a population increasingly disillusioned with political promises unmet. At this crossroads, the APC faces a fundamental choice about the kind of leadership it wishes to project—and the kind of future it envisions not just for the party, but for the country. In weighing the available candidates, the attributes of loyalty, national reach, public trust, and governance experience should feature prominently. As Sierra Leone moves toward another critical electoral cycle, the stakes could not be higher. The decisions made in 2026 will echo far beyond the APC headquarters, shaping the country’s political landscape for years to come.