A new national survey indicates that the race for the flagbearer position of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) is highly competitive, with no single aspirant securing majority support from the party’s grassroots base.

According to the survey, conducted by Institute for Governance Reform (IGR), in mid-December 2025, former United Nations official Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella is the most liked and considered most electable among a crowded field of potential candidates. He garnered a 48% likeability and 38% electability rating among self-identified SLPP supporters.

He is closely trailed by Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, who polled at 38% likeability and 33% electability, and First Lady Fatima Bio, who received 47% likeability and 32% electability among SLPP respondents. Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh followed with 29% likeability and 23% electability.

The findings, part of a broader study on political party internal democracy, reveal a fragmented field within the governing party as it looks toward the 2028 elections. The absence of a candidate breaking the 50% threshold suggests the party convention could be a closely contested event.

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The survey also uncovered significant voter sentiment on candidate qualifications. An overwhelming 87% of respondents, including SLPP supporters, believe a minimum of five years of party membership should be required for anyone seeking the flagbearer position or a national executive role. Furthermore, 52% of all respondents expressed the view that close relatives of a sitting president, such as a spouse, should not run for the presidency immediately after that president’s term.

Among SLPP supporters, the most valued qualities in a flagbearer are being highly educated (42%), having leadership experience (40%), and possessing international connections (31%). Regional origin, youth, and gender were ranked as the least important factors.

The survey methodology, which sampled 1,200 adults nationwide, has been a point of discussion. During a validation meeting, SLPP leadership noted that the poll sampled the general population rather than a formal list of party delegates, who are constitutionally tasked with electing the flagbearer.

Researchers countered that the sample—where 74% of respondents self-identified as party members or supporters—accurately reflects the views of the active party base, which often extends beyond formal card-carrying members.

With the SLPP yet to officially commence its flagbearer nomination process, the survey provides the first quantitative snapshot of a race that remains fluid and highly competitive.