The All Peoples Congress (APC) is very much liked by Sierra Leoneans. Since its inception through the years of its one-party rule to its latest being in power under the aegis of Ernest Bai Koroma, it has endeared itself to the people by its penchant for socioeconomic and infrastructural development programs. Most, if not all of the infrastructural landmarks the country is boating of were constructed by the APC.

It is the party for the people of Sierra Leone. However, given its current state of confusion and intra-party rancor as a result of its seeming departure from being transparent, accountable and mutually committed to regaining power, there is a very tendency it might lose relevance by the time of elections in 2028. The party must adopt fairness and inclusivity and must adapt to trending issues that are characterizing present-day global politics, of which Sierra Leone and indeed the APC party are no exceptions.

The All People’s Congress (APC) party has been a dominant political force in Sierra Leone for decades. From its founding in the 1960s to its periods in power, the APC has shaped much of the country’s political landscape. However, recent years have not been kind to the party. The APC lost two consecutive presidential elections (in 2018 and 2023) to the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), led by President Julius Maada Bio. With the 2028 elections looming on the horizon, the APC finds itself at a critical juncture. If the party fails to step up and revamp its strategies, the consequences could be dire; not just for the APC as an organization, but also for the future political stability and development of Sierra Leone.

The APC has long been associated with moments of political stability and economic growth in Sierra Leone. Under leaders like Siaka Stevens and later Ernest Bai Koroma, the party brought a sense of order and progress to the country, despite the periods of authoritarian rule and controversy. However, this legacy, once a source of pride, has become a burden. The party’s image has been tarnished by allegations of corruption, nepotism, and mismanagement during its most recent rule under President Koroma (2007-2018). As the party prepares for 2028, it must confront these issues head-on and distance itself from the negative aspects of its past.

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Leadership Crisis: The Fight of Ego: Who is who?

One of the APC’s biggest challenges is its leadership. Since the departure of Ernest Bai Koroma, the party has struggled to find a unifying figure capable of leading it into the future. Samura Kamara, who was the party’s flagbearer in both the 2018 and 2023 elections, remains a popular figure. However, questions have been raised about whether he represents the new direction that the APC desperately needs. Internal wrangling that have caused deep-rooted animosity and divisions in the party over leadership have only compounded the problem. Without a strong, visionary leadership and mutual commitment, the APC risks entering the 2028 elections without a clear sense of direction.

The APC must resolve its leadership crisis by choosing a candidate who can not only appeal to the party’s base but also attract a broader coalition of voters. This leader must be dynamic, forward-thinking, and capable of bridging the divides within the party and the nation. Reconnecting with the Grassroots.

The APC’s traditional strongholds have always been in the northern and western regions of Sierra Leone. However, in recent years, the party has struggled to maintain the same level of support among these communities. Many former supporters feel disillusioned with the party’s inability to deliver on its promises during its time in power. The SLPP has taken advantage of this disenchantment, making inroads into areas that were once considered APC strongholds.

To win back the trust of the grassroots, the APC must engage directly with the people. This means listening to their concerns, addressing issues like unemployment, poverty, and the rising cost of living, and presenting clear policies that offer tangible solutions. Failure to reconnect with the grassroots will leave the party vulnerable to further erosion of its base.

Modernizing the Party’s Structures

The APC’s internal structure is often criticized as being overly rigid and hierarchical. Decision-making within the party is dominated by a small group of elites, leaving little room for fresh ideas or innovation. This outdated approach to party governance is no longer tenable in today’s fast-changing political environment. Younger genèrations, in particular, are demanding greater representation and a more inclusive political process.

For the APC to succeed in 2028, it must modernize its internal structures, Fallowing for greater participation from younger members, women, and other marginalized groups. This not only ensures that the party remains relevant but also helps to foster new ideas and perspectives that are crucial for addressing the challenges facing Sierra Leone.

Developing a Clear Policy Framework

One of the APC’s major weaknesses in recent elections has been its inability to articulate a clear and coherent policy platform. While the party has often relíed on its historical legacy and criticism of the ruling SLPP, this strategy is no longer sufficient. Voters, especially younger ones, are looking for concrete proposals that address the issues they face daily, such as education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and infrastructure development.

The APC must develop a comprehensive policy platform that speaks to the needs of the people. This platform should focus on sustainable economic development, job creation, social services, and anti-corruption measures. By presenting a clear and attractive alternative to the SLPP, the APC can position itself as a viable option for voters in 2028. If the APC fails to step up ahead of the 2028 elections, the consequences could be severe. The party risks losing not only the election but also its relevance in Sierra Leone’s political landscape. Here are some of the potential outcomes:

Avoiding Further Electoral Defeat

The most immediate consequence of failing to step up is the possibility of losing the 2028 election. After two consecutive defeats in 2018 and 2023, another loss could be devastating for the party. While it is still one of the two major political forces in the country, a third defeat could weaken its influence and demoralize its supporters. This would leave the SLPP with an even stronger mandate, further consolidating its power.

The APC cannot afford to lose again. Another electoral defeat would not only deepen the internal divisions within the party but also lead to a loss of confidence among its base. Many supporters may start looking for alternatives, further eroding the party’s starrding in Sierra Leonean politics.

Internal Fragmentation

The APC has long been plagued by internal divisions, and another electoral defeat could exacerbate these tensions. Factions within the party may start to blame each other for the loss, leading to infighting and fragmentation. This would weaken the party’s ability to function as a unified force and make it even more difficult to challenge the SLPP in future elections.

If the APC is unable to fesolve its internal conflicts and present a united front, it risks splintering into smaller, ineffective factions. This could result in the emergence of new political movements that challenge the APC’s dominance on the opposition side, further diluting its power.
Loss of Political Relevance
A failure to step up in the 2028 elections could also lead to the APC losing its relevance in Sierra Leonean politics. While the party has historically been one of the two main political forces in the country, times are changing. New political parties and movements are emerging, and the APC risks being left behind if it does not adapt to the shifting political landscape.

The younger generation, in particular, may start to view the APC as an outdated institution that no longer represents their interests. If the party fails to modernize and present a compelling vision for the future, it could be replaced by more dynamic, forward-thinking political movements.

Impact on National Development

The APC’s failure to step up would not only have consequences for the party but also for Sierra Leone as a whole. A weak opposition is detrimental to the functioning of a healthy democracy. If the APC is unable to effectively challenge the ruling SLPP, it could lead to unchecked power and a lack of accountability in government.

A strong opposition is essential for ensuring that the government remains responsive to the needs of the people. The APC has a responsibility to hold the SLPP accountable and present alternative policies that promote national development. Without a robust opposition, there is a risk that Sierra Leone could slide into political stagnation, with little progress being made on key issues like economic development, education, and healthcare.

The Path Forward: How the APC Can Step Up

For the APC to step up and position itself as a serious contender in the 2028 elections, it must undertake a series of reforms and strategic shifts: Resolve the Leadership Crisis: The party must settle its internal leadership disputes and rally behind a strong, capable leader who can inspire confidence and unity. This leader should be someone who can appeal to both the party’s base and a broader coalition of voters.

Engage with the Grassroots: The APC must reconnect with its traditional supporters and rebuild trust among the grassroots. This means addressing their concerns and presenting clear, practical solutions to the challenges they face.

Modernize the Party Structure: The APC must democratize its internal structures, allowing for greater participation from younger members, women, and marginalized groups. This will ensure that the party remains relevant and can adapt to the changing political landscape.

Develop a Clear Policy Platform: The APC must present a comprehensive and coherent policy platform that addresses the key issues facing Sierra Leone, such as unemployment, poverty, education, and healthcare. Strengthen Party Unity: Internal divisions must be resolved, and the party must present a united front as it heads into the 2028 elections. This will require compromise, dialogue, and a commitment to the greater good of the party and the country.

The APC stands at a critical crossroads ahead of the 2028 elections. The party’s future – and its ability to influence the direction of Sierra Leone – depends on its willingness to step up and adapt to the new political realities. Failure to do so could result in further electoral defeats, internal fragmentation, and a loss of political relevance. More importantly, it could weaken Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions by leaving the country without a strong opposition to hold the ruling SLPP accountable.

If the APC is to remain a viable political force, it must reform itself from within, embrace transparency, and prioritize the needs of the people over personal or factional interests. By doing so, the party can reclaim its place in Sierra Leone’s political landscape and present itself as a credible alternative to the SLPP. The stakes are high, and the 2028 elections may very well determine whether the APC will thrive in the future or fade into political obscurity. The time to act is now, and the APC must rise to the challenge or risk being consigned to the pages of history.