According to Amoz-USA, distinguished members of the All People’s Congress (APC) gathered in Maryland, USA, over the weekend as part of the chapter’s general monthly meeting, where they hosted their comrade from Sierra Leone to discuss key issues regarding the party’s progress.

The three-hour-long meeting was held on Saturday, January 26, 2025, at 4801 Forbes Blvd, Laham, Maryland, USA. Discussions centered on party reunification, solidarity, diversity, restructuring, peace, and liberal democracy.

Welcoming the guest of honor, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, the first elected President of the Washington Metropolitan Chapter, Comrade Abubakarr ‘Ball Yaiye’ Koroma acknowledged the impact of the harsh winter season on attendance. He emphasized that the chapter does not endorse any candidate but rather provides an open platform for dialogue. “We have the responsibility of respecting anyone who has played a role in the party, engaging with admiration and encouragement. Leadership is a collective venture, and none of us knows in whose hands it will ultimately be bestowed,” he stated. He urged members to remain respectful during discussions, even when responses may not align with expectations.

The chapter’s Vice President, Comrade Esther Abibatu Daramy, a member of the tripartite subcommittee in Freetown, unequivocally stated that the June 2023 presidential elections were stolen from the APC. Recalling her six-month representation of the chapter, she described it as a “tedious engagement and commitment.” Expressing hope for electoral justice, she affirmed that by the grace of God, Sierra Leone will soon witness positive change. She urged members to focus on reclaiming what was taken rather than engaging in fruitless disputes.

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During the interactive session, Mrs. Daramy stressed the need for determined party members to ensure that the opposition respects and fully implements the tripartite agreement recommendations.

Guest Speaker Dr. Ibrahim Bangura elaborated on his contributions to the party, including forgoing a bid for the National Secretary position, mediating legal disputes within the party, leading the National Strategic Development Committee, and spearheading the second phase of the party’s manifesto development. He described Sierra Leone as a country full of promise but emphasized the need for a leadership that can unify both the APC and the nation. “No country can develop without peace, love, and strong institutions that uphold stability,” he remarked, referencing the United States as an example.

Dr. Bangura pledged lifelong service to the APC, emphasizing unity and constructive engagement. He expressed concern over divisions within the party and stressed the need for political consensus, dialogue, and bridge-building rather than factionalism. He highlighted critical issues such as economic revitalization, employment opportunities, youth empowerment, drug abuse prevention, improved healthcare, maternal care, and inclusive governance.

Addressing what he termed “negative peace,” Dr. Bangura warned against the marginalization of youth, which he argued leads to frustration, gang involvement, drug addiction, and criminal behavior. He reaffirmed that “the process is as important as the outcome” and reiterated his belief that “the worst APC is better than the best SLPP.” He urged all generations within the party to collaborate under the mantra “Two Generations, One Future.”

In response to questions about APC unification, Dr. Bangura affirmed his ongoing efforts to bridge gaps among aspirants, emphasizing the importance of post-election collaboration for party progress. “I reach out to fellow aspirants, whom I regard as my brothers and sisters. Whoever emerges as the flagbearer must make a conscious effort to work with all members for unity and progress,” he stated.

Acknowledging grievances over the June 2023 elections, he cautioned that internal divisions weaken the party more than external challenges. “Our opponents grow stronger not because they are invincible, but because our internal weaknesses and divisions exhaust us before the real contest begins,” he noted. Despite viewing power as both a perception and a delusion, he prayed for a leader who prioritizes the people’s interests over personal gain.

Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, a former Program Manager at the Wittenberg Center for Global Ethics in Germany (2010-2013), announced plans for a future political visit to the USA, with details to be confirmed. The interactive session allowed for a robust exchange of questions and answers. The meeting was chaired by the Chapter’s Secretary-General, Mohammad Dumbuya.