On Sunday, May 28th, 2023, Bamidele-Thompson, the Former Chairman of the People’s Movement for Democratic Change (PMDC) Party, along with other PMDC supporters, made an announcement declaring their allegiance to the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). 

The declaration event occurred at the Former Special Court Compound, where prominent former PMDC officials publicly expressed their intention to leave the party in favor of the SLPP.

In an interview, Mr. Thompson, the former PMDC Chairman, stated that the decision to switch to the SLPP was long overdue, given the positive impact President Bio has had on Sierra Leoneans over the past five years.

He emphasized that the alleged mismanagement of the country’s resources during the eleven-year reign of the All People’s Congress (APC) should prevent them from ruling again.

Mr. Thompson argued that the current difficulties faced by Sierra Leoneans are a consequence of the purported corrupt practices and mismanagement that occurred between 2007 and 2018 under the APC government.

As a believer in transparency and accountability, he cited the findings and recommendations of the 2018 Commission of Inquiry, which implicated several APC officials in corruption.

Mr. Thompson, as a senior citizen, declared that he could not associate himself with politicians who he believed had hindered Sierra Leone’s progress. Thus, he considered the decision to join the SLPP both timely and impactful.

He further stated that the PMDC, along with its flagbearer Charles Francis Margai, who recently declared for the APC, had effectively ceased to exist.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by third force parties such as the PMDC and NGC in their initial attempts to rule Sierra Leone, Mr. Thompson expressed doubt about their prospects. Consequently, he deemed it necessary to align with the SLPP, a party that has held a special place in his heart for some time.

He described his relationship with SLPP officials as cordial even before making the switch, expressing confidence in the party’s ability to endure.

Mr. Thompson emphasized his commitment to actively support President Bio’s re-election on June 24th by highlighting the accomplishments of the President’s first term, as well as the transformative plans and commitments he has made for Sierra Leone’s future.