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Native Consortium and Research Centre (NCRC) Executive Director Edmond Abu has criticised the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), describing what he sees as shortcomings in the party’s approach to democracy and political participation.
Abu made the remarks on AYV’s Hot Seat program on Friday, September 18, 2026, where he said, “What the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) practices is semi-democracy, not real democracy.”
The NCRC Executive Director did not cite specific examples in the quoted remarks to substantiate his characterisation of the SLPP’s internal practices as “semi-democracy.”
His comments come amid broader discussions over political party governance, internal democracy and participation in Sierra Leone ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Edmond Abu Jr. has been a longstanding civil society advocate in Sierra Leone and is known for campaigning on issues involving corporate practices, consumer rights and public policy.
Through the Native Consortium and Research Centre, Abu has challenged telecommunications companies over tariffs and led public advocacy against increases in fuel prices.
His activism has also resulted in legal and institutional confrontations. He was arrested on several occasions, including a 21-day contempt of court sentence in January 2023 in connection with his case involving mobile telecommunications companies.
He has also faced disputes with authorities concerning the registration status of the organisation.
Abu’s latest comments add his voice to continuing national discussions about the functioning of political parties, internal participation and democratic governance as Sierra Leone approaches the 2028 electoral cycle.
