In a compelling address at the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) UK & Ireland Regional General Meeting held in London on Sunday, September 14, 2025, SLPP National Chairman Sir Jimmy Batilo Songa issued a strong call for unity and discipline within the party.

He warned against personal ambitions that could threaten the party’s cohesion, emphasizing that “there is no room for personal projects or misplaced ambitions.”

Addressing a largely supportive audience of party members, supporters, and guests, Sir Songa began his remarks by conveying warm greetings from President Julius Maada Bio, the party’s leader. He also reflected on his personal connection to the UK & Ireland region, recalling his tenure as its first Chairman and describing it as “very close to my heart.” He praised the region’s vital role in shaping the party’s journey and its unwavering support in difficult times.

Before discussing party matters, Sir Songa led a moment of silence to honor the party’s founding fathers—Sir Milton Margai, Sir Albert Margai—and all those who have contributed to the SLPP’s progress over the years. “Our party was not built in a day,” he said, acknowledging the sacrifices of past leaders and supporters that laid the foundation for today’s successes.

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Highlighting the region’s crucial role in the party’s recent victories, Sir Songa credited the UK & Ireland chapter as the birthplace of the “JMB (Julius Maada Bio) Agenda,” which mobilized support, raised resources, and championed the “New Direction” movement that secured the SLPP’s victory in 2018. “That triumph bears the fingerprints of the UK & Ireland Region,” he affirmed, noting its continued importance in maintaining the party’s strength, especially after years in opposition.

The Chairman underscored that the SLPP now has a clear, unified mission: “We have only ONE AGENDA—the SLPP Agenda. No factions. No distractions.” He emphasized that under President Bio’s leadership, the party is steering forward with a shared sense of purpose and discipline. “As your National Chairman, I am here to guide the ship with loyalty and responsibility,” he declared.

Sir Songa called on both veteran and new members to see themselves as part of “one political family,” stressing that “there is no ‘them’ and ‘us.’ There is only WE.” He urged unity across all regions and chapters, emphasizing that internal cohesion is essential for the party’s continued success.

Addressing internal discipline, Sir Songa reaffirmed that President Julius Maada Bio is the sole leader of the SLPP. “I have no separate agenda, no divided loyalty, and no interest in other ambitions,” he stated firmly. He warned against any tendencies that could sow division or undermine the party’s unity and urged members to reject such actions outright.

With national elections looming in three years, Sir Songa emphasized that the focus should be on governance and delivery rather than leadership contests. “This is the season for discipline, results, and implementing President Bio’s ‘Big Five Game Changers,’” he said, highlighting key initiatives such as Feed Salone, Human Capital Development, Youth Employment, Technology and Infrastructure, and Public Service Reform.

He announced plans to strengthen the party’s campaign infrastructure through the formation of sub-committees within the UK & Ireland Region, stressing the importance of avoiding complacency and maintaining a united front to keep the opposition APC permanently out of power.

In a heartfelt moment, Sir Songa expressed gratitude to President Bio for his mentorship and confidence in his leadership. He pledged to serve with humility, fairness, and unwavering commitment to the party’s core values. “I do not see this office as a privilege but as a duty,” he affirmed.

Concluding his speech, Sir Songa called on all party members—whether in Sierra Leone or abroad—to remain disciplined, loyal, and committed to the party’s mission. “Millions of Sierra Leoneans depend on us for leadership,” he said. “We must defend our record, support the President’s vision, and continue spreading the message of transformation.”

The hall erupted in chants of “SLPP! One Country! One People!” as supporters echoed his call for unity. The rally ended with a resounding declaration: “Long live the SLPP UK & Ireland Region! Long live the Sierra Leone People’s Party! Long live President Julius Maada Bio! Long live Sierra Leone!”