President Bio Cautions SLPP Against Sentiment in 2028 Flagbearer Race

President Julius Maada Bio has issued a strong call for unity and strategic thinking within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), cautioning against the use of emotions or sentiments in the selection of the party’s next presidential flagbearer ahead of the 2028 elections.

Speaking during a celebratory gathering held at State Lodge in honor of his recent election as Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Bio used the occasion not only to reflect on Sierra Leone’s growing stature on the international stage but also to offer firm political guidance to his party.

The event, attended by dignitaries, party stalwarts, government officials, and representatives from various sectors, marked a moment of national pride. In his address, President Bio described his appointment as ECOWAS Chair as “a win not just for me, but for Sierra Leone,” while expressing deep gratitude to citizens for their unwavering support.

“Sierra Leone is a blessed country. That belief is what inspired me to run for President,” he noted. He went on to describe the state of the country in 2018 when he took office, highlighting the urgent need for international re-engagement and image repair. “I started traveling not for luxury but to clean up Sierra Leone’s image. And today, our efforts are paying off,” he said, referencing the country’s improved standing in Africa and beyond.

President Bio proudly declared that Sierra Leone has now set a new standard, producing both the Chair of ECOWAS and the President of the Organization of African First Ladies a nod to First Lady Fatima Maada Bio. “Madam First Lady,” he joked, “we have the Chairman of ECOWAS and the President of African First Ladies at State Lodge.”

However, the President’s remarks took a decisive political turn when he addressed growing speculation and behind-the-scenes lobbying within the SLPP over who will lead the party into the 2028 presidential race.

“Let us not allow emotions or sentiments to drive our actions,” President Bio warned. “Let’s put sentiments aside and vote for the next flagbearer of the SLPP the person who will become the next President of Sierra Leone.”

The President further disclosed that he will play an active role in that process, stating: “I am a delegate. I will vote for the next Flagbearer of the SLPP.”

With this firm declaration, President Bio signaled his ongoing commitment to the party’s future and stability. His comments come at a time when internal party dynamics are gradually heating up, with several figures rumored to be eyeing the flagbearer position.

As the SLPP looks ahead to 2028, President Bio’s message was clear: the choice of leadership must be based on merit, vision, and capacity not personal loyalty or emotional attachments.