By Jarrah Kawusu-Konte
In a bold and timely statement that has generated widespread attention across political circles, APC flagbearer aspirant Dr Ibrahim Bangura has called for unity within the All Peoples Congress (APC), warning that internal divisions could derail the party’s chances of effectively addressing Sierra Leone’s pressing national challenges.
Dr Bangura, a public policy expert and respected voice within the APC, made the remarks on Monday in a public release titled “United We Stand: A Call for Unity Within the All Peoples Congress (APC).” His message comes at a time when tensions among various aspirants within the party are beginning to surface, risking public disillusionment and internal fragmentation.
“Our great APC has weathered many storms throughout its storied history,” Dr Bangura said.
“It has always emerged stronger through unity, dialogue, and a common sense of purpose. Today, however, we are faced with a growing wave of internal tension that threatens the very core of our party.”
He urged his fellow aspirants and party members to rise above personal ambition and remain focused on the party’s broader mission, to provide credible, inclusive leadership capable of addressing Sierra Leone’s socio-economic challenges.
A Call for Constructive Engagement
While acknowledging the importance of democratic competition, Dr Bangura emphasized that it must be rooted in mutual respect, not rivalry. “Competition should never breed enmity,” he stated.
“The people are watching. Our supporters are waiting. Sierra Leone deserves a cohesive, visionary, and disciplined opposition ready to lead with integrity and purpose.”
Dr Bangura’s tone marks a significant departure from the often combative rhetoric associated with internal party politics. Instead, he positioned himself as a bridge-builder, appealing for calm, constructive dialogue, and collective responsibility.
Policy Beyond Politics: A Focus on MPOX
Beyond party affairs, Dr Bangura also used the opportunity to draw attention to a rising public health concern, the increase in Monkeypox (MPOX) cases across the country. Expressing concern over the limited awareness and inadequate public response, he announced plans to support a nationwide sensitisation campaign led by the APC.
“As part of my commitment to public service, I am pledging financial support to the party to launch a community education and prevention strategy,” he said.
“I call on all APC members, fellow aspirants, civil society actors, and citizens of goodwill to join hands in this urgent public health effort.”
This announcement adds to a growing list of issue-based interventions Dr Bangura has made in recent months. He has publicly offered policy-oriented responses to national events such as the Yenga border situation, the fire at State House, and national holidays like International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day, each time focusing on solutions and long-term strategies.
A Vision for APC and Sierra Leone
Observers believe Dr Bangura is positioning himself as a unifying figure, someone capable of transcending internal factions and steering the APC toward renewal and relevance. Media & Political analyst Sylvester Souray noted, “Dr Bangura represents a generational shift—rooted in tradition but forward-looking. His emphasis on healing, unity, and policy reflects a refreshing seriousness of purpose.”
His message aligns with a broader sentiment among party supporters and independents alike, who are seeking a leader capable of reconciling APC’s internal differences while remaining responsive to the people’s needs.
As the APC inches closer to its next electoral cycle, the party finds itself at a crossroads, either risk internal collapse or embrace reform, unity, and clear-headed leadership. Dr Ibrahim Bangura’s latest message is a decisive call to choose the latter.
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