By Guest Writer
As Sierra Leone approaches the 2028 general elections, the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) is widely viewed as facing one of the most consequential moments in its modern political history. Political scholars often argue that winning power is one challenge; sustaining it is an even greater test of strategy, cohesion, and internal management.
For the SLPP, the 2028 polls represent a transition election. With President Julius Maada Bio serving his second term, the party must navigate succession dynamics while maintaining grassroots confidence and organizational unity. Concerns are emerging within sections of the party that unless urgent corrective measures are taken, internal disillusionment could weaken its electoral prospects.
When in Power: A Comparative Political Perspective
Debate has intensified within political circles over how ruling parties distribute power after electoral victory. Central to this discussion is whether party executives and long-serving stakeholders are adequately integrated into governance structures once their party assumes office.
A comparative review of political practice in Africa offers instructive examples:
• In South Africa, the African National Congress (ANC) has historically drawn significantly from party executives and loyal structures when forming government, reinforcing internal cohesion.
• In Ghana, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), following electoral victories, has maintained structured consultation with party organs before major appointments—an approach seen as recognition of grassroots contributions.
• In Sierra Leone, the All People’s Congress (APC) under former President Ernest Bai Koroma was noted for appointing several national executive members and party stakeholders into cabinet, ambassadorial, and parastatal roles during his second term.
These models illustrate a broader political principle: rewarding loyalty and integrating party structures into governance can strengthen political durability.
The SLPP’s Internal Debate
Critics within sections of the SLPP argue that, unlike comparative examples, many national executive members have not been significantly absorbed into key government roles during President Bio’s second term. While the Party Leader and Deputy Leader serve as President and Vice President respectively, concerns have been raised about other senior party officials who remain outside mainstream government appointments.
Supporters of the current administration, however, contend that governance decisions must balance party considerations with national competence, technocratic needs, and broader inclusivity.
Nonetheless, political analysts warn that prolonged perceptions of exclusion—whether accurate or exaggerated—can foster internal dissatisfaction. History demonstrates that ruling parties often face greater risks from internal fragmentation than from external opposition.
The Risk of Sycophancy and Information Gaps
Another concern raised in political discourse is the danger of insulated leadership. When parties remain long in power, there is a tendency for critical voices to be replaced by praise singers, leading to distorted feedback and strategic miscalculations. Effective political management, analysts argue, requires honest internal assessment rather than curated optimism.
If party executives—who traditionally serve as frontline defenders during elections—feel marginalized, mobilization capacity at the grassroots level may weaken ahead of a highly competitive transition contest.
2028: A Transition Election
The 2028 elections will not merely be about policy performance; they will test party unity, succession planning, and grassroots morale. Transition elections are historically volatile across Africa, often reshaping political dominance.
For the SLPP, the pathway forward may require:
• Strengthened internal consultation and reconciliation
• Transparent engagement with party executives and stakeholders
• Balanced distribution of opportunities across regions and party structures
• Clear succession signaling to avoid factional contestation
Maintaining power requires strategic inclusion, organizational discipline, and grassroots motivation. As political competition intensifies, the SLPP must confront hard questions about internal cohesion and reward structures.
The ultimate political battles are often fought by party loyalists at the grassroots level. Ensuring that these structures remain energized and valued could prove decisive in 2028.
Whether the SLPP adapts effectively to this defining moment may well determine not only its electoral fortunes but also the broader trajectory of Sierra Leone’s democratic evolution.
