By Saidu Dumbuya
The Elders’ Council of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) has proposed a meeting with the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Dr. Samura Kamara, in a bid to foster unity and chart a clear path forward ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Veteran journalist and politician, Hon. Ibrahim Ben Kargbo, said the purpose of the meeting is to engage Dr. Kamara in open dialogue concerning the future direction of the party. Speaking on a local television program in Freetown, Hon. Kargbo emphasized the need for cohesion within the APC and encouraged Dr. Kamara to consider the broader interests of the party.
“Dr. Samura Kamara should see reason to work toward securing victory in the next elections,” Hon. Kargbo stated. He noted that while Dr. Kamara’s eligibility to contest for the party’s flagbearer position remains subject to legal interpretation of the APC’s 2022 constitution, it is ultimately a matter for legal experts to decide.
Acknowledging Dr. Kamara’s two-time presidential candidacy, Hon. Kargbo pointed out the emotional and political complexities surrounding his potential bid, especially as several aspirants have already expressed interest in the 2028 ticket. “Whether he decides to step aside or not is a decision only he can make,” he said.
Hon. Kargbo reiterated that Dr. Kamara is well within his constitutional rights to align himself with individuals of his choice. “He cannot be faulted for associating with those he trusts,” he noted, adding that the APC still regards him as a key member whose support and participation remain vital to the party’s progress.
He further stressed that the Elders’ Council wishes to approach the matter with calm and respect, rather than confrontation. “We want tempers to cool and for everyone to come together and find a way forward,” he said.
Hon. Kargbo expressed concern about factions within the party that are pushing the narrative that President Julius Maada Bio will be removed and Dr. Kamara installed as president. “That notion is far from reality,” he said firmly. “As someone who has been in governance for many years, I understand the constitutional and democratic processes required to assume or remove a sitting president. President Bio is internationally recognized, and any change in leadership must come through the ballot box.”
He drew a distinction between current political conditions and past events involving the use of ECOMOG during the regime of Johnny Paul Koroma, stressing that the contexts are not comparable.
Hon. Kargbo also cautioned against setting unrealistic expectations and timelines for Dr. Kamara’s installation as president, warning that such rhetoric could harm the party’s credibility ahead of the 2028 elections.
“I believe Dr. Kamara is being influenced by certain individuals. I have known him for many years. He is a principled man who places trust in people, but sometimes that trust can be misused,” he said.
Reflecting on the role of the international community and the ongoing Tripartite Committee process, Hon. Kargbo said, “What I expected the international community to have asked is, ‘Who won the 2023 election?’ But that question wasn’t asked. So, the issues remain unresolved.”
He concluded by urging all APC members and supporters to prioritize unity and organization in preparation for 2028. “We must put our house in order if we are to succeed in the next elections,” he said.
