By Ishmael Sallieu Koroma
FREETOWN — As internal elections unfold within Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), supporters of leading contender Dr. Ibrahim Bangura have issued a call for unity, urging members to conduct themselves with respect and discipline during the often high-stakes contest.
In a statement released by the Bangura campaign team, party members were warned against personal attacks, provocative social media posts, and confrontational behaviour toward supporters of other candidates. The statement stressed that internal elections should strengthen cohesion, democratic values, and the party’s long-term credibility.
“Healthy debate and competition are natural in any democratic process,” the statement read. “However, such engagement must remain respectful and constructive. We encourage supporters to promote their preferred candidates through ideas and policies, not hostility.”
The appeal comes amid rising tensions within the APC, one of Sierra Leone’s two dominant political parties, where internal elections frequently draw intense scrutiny from both the party faithful and political observers. Analysts say how parties manage internal contests can affect their unity and public image, particularly in a country where politics is often highly personalized.
The Bangura movement stressed that, beyond the electoral contest, party members remain part of the same organisation with a shared responsibility to the electorate. “Our strength lies in unity, discipline, and constructive engagement,” the statement said, reaffirming its commitment to a transparent and peaceful election process.
Political observers in Freetown note that the APC’s internal elections will not only determine leadership but may also signal the party’s readiness to challenge the ruling government in future national contests. For many supporters, the call for calm is a reminder that internal rivalry need not compromise the broader mission of the party.
The Bangura campaign concluded by thanking all members for their dedication to upholding peace, decorum, and mutual respect during the elections — a message some hope will resonate amid what can sometimes be a fractious political season.
