Veteran journalist and senior opposition All People’s Congress (APC) politician, Alhaji Ibrahim Ben Kargbo, has identified Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh as a strong contender for Sierra Leone’s presidency in 2028.
Kargbo emphasized the importance of political experience, academic qualifications, and loyalty to party and state in selecting future leaders. He highlighted Dr. Jalloh’s unique position, noting, “For a start, it is necessary to take a serious look at the current Vice President of Sierra Leone, who constitutionally is the only one a heartbeat away from the Presidential seat.”
“Dr. Jalloh’s academic credentials include a BA from Fourah Bay College, an MSc from the University of Ibadan, and a PhD from the University of Bordeaux. His extensive international experience encompasses roles such as Senior Political Officer at the United Nations mission in Mali and the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel,” he noted.
Kargbo, with over 35 years as a journalist and politician with years of service as parliament, also pointed out that Dr. Jalloh, a seasoned political scientist and established international civil servant, has acted as President of Sierra Leone nearly forty times, including during the August 10 crisis, where he effectively mobilized security forces to restore order.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Jalloh is recognized for his strong community ties. Originating from Port Loko District and having spent formative years in Kono and Freetown, he is fluent in several languages, including Temne and Fullah.
He further noted that many within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) view VP Juldeh Jalloh favourably, citing his loyalty and service to President Bio as reasons he should be considered for the party’s leadership in the 2028 elections.
Ibrahim Ben Kargbo’s apparent endorsement carries significant weight. Born in 1944 in Makeni, he has served as Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Communication and as the government’s official spokesman.
A graduate of Fourah Bay College, Kargbo is also the founder of The New Citizen newspaper, one of the country’s most widely read publications. His extensive experience in journalism and politics positions him as a respected voice in national affairs