As Bio Prepares To Exit In 2028… Will He Hand Over Power To APC?
By Staff Writer
As President Julius Maada Bio approaches the end of his constitutionally mandated presidential tenure in 2028, growing political attention is shifting towards one major question: Will he hand over power to the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), or will the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) secure another electoral victory?
President Bio has repeatedly made it clear that he intends to leave office at the end of his second term in 2028 and hand over power to the next democratically elected president. However, his declaration has sparked political debate, particularly amid growing discussions within the SLPP about the party’s chances of retaining the presidency.
While some SLPP supporters believe the presidency should remain in the party’s hands after Bio’s departure, others argue that the President’s constitutional responsibility is to complete his two terms and peacefully transfer power, regardless of which political party wins the 2028 elections.
The SLPP, meanwhile, appears determined to strengthen its political position ahead of the crucial polls, with several development projects expected to feature prominently in its campaign narrative.
Among these is the proposed Nant Power Project, which is expected to begin implementation next year. If successfully delivered, the project could become a major talking point for the ruling party as it seeks to convince voters of its record in infrastructure development, energy security and economic transformation.
However, the political success of such initiatives will largely depend on their timely implementation and the extent to which ordinary Sierra Leoneans experience tangible improvements in their daily lives.
For the opposition APC, the 2028 elections present an opportunity to reclaim State House after years out of power. The party is expected to capitalise on public concerns over the economy, governance, employment and the cost of living as it seeks to convince voters that it offers a credible alternative.
Ultimately, the 2028 presidential election will be a defining moment for Sierra Leone’s democracy and political future.
The central question, therefore, is not simply whether President Bio will hand over power, but whether the SLPP can retain the presidency through the ballot box or whether the APC will emerge victorious.
One thing remains clear: President Bio’s successor will be determined by the will of the electorate, and the true test of his democratic legacy will be a peaceful and credible transfer of power to whoever wins the 2028 elections.
