SLPP relates 2025 Delegate Conference as a Life Defining Moment
By Kadiatu Sankoh
The 14th National Delegates’ Conference of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) held in Freetown International Conference Centre, Bintumani, Aberdeen, Freetown, brought together the party’s stalwarts, grassroots members, political allies, and national stakeholders in a grand family gathering. This significant occasion marked a moment of reflection, transition, and reaffirmation of the SLPP’s commitment to democracy, unity, and national development.
Dr. Prince Alex Harding, the National Chairperson of the SLPP, who has served the party faithfully for 26 years, opened the conference with a passionate and reflective speech. He began:
“I deliberately use the phrase ‘life-defining’ to underscore the seriousness of this moment. The decisions we make here today will deeply impact the welfare of Sierra Leoneans, the development of our nation, and the peace and cohesion we strive to preserve.”
He recalled the party’s journey, beginning in 1991, when young and old came together to revive the SLPP’s leadership after decades of political dormancy. He spoke of the military interregnum, the introduction of political pluralism in 1995, and the SLPP’s resilience through successive elections, particularly highlighting the 2002 landslide victory with 72% of the vote.
Dr. Harding acknowledged the challenges and compromises made for peace, such as the inclusion of former RUF members in the cabinet following the Lome Peace Accord. Despite being sidelined at the time, he reaffirmed his belief in the SLPP’s ability to adapt, famously quoting: “The SLPP must be like the cockroach that outlived the dinosaurs.”
He reflected on the party’s internal struggles, betrayals, and ultimate triumph in the 2018 General Election that saw Brigadier Julius Maada Bio emerge as President. He praised the achievements under Bio’s leadership, and called for continued unity to retain power, “we must stand behind our leader. I’m stepping down today, grateful to the grassroots the foundation of this party.”
Representing the All People’s Congress (APC), Acting Chairman, Ambassador Yansanneh extended fraternal greetings: “We are here to consolidate the democratic gains we have achieved as a nation. The quality of representation you choose today will shape Sierra Leone’s democratic future. Internal democracy is vital.”
He emphasized collaboration, noting: “My presence here sends a message – we must be each other’s keeper. The APC wishes you a successful conference.”
Representing the All Political Parties Association (APPA), The Secretary General, Ibrahim Sorie Sesay, commended the SLPP for its role in promoting peace and cohesion He narrated that “Your legacy is immense, especially in the area of national unity. The SLPP has demonstrated what true internal democracy looks like. We wish you a successful delegate conference and urge all to align with President Bio’s vision for Sierra Leone.”
In an emotional farewell, Secretary-General, Umaro Napoleon Koroma, reflected on his tenure since 2017, when the party was emerging from internal legal battles: “Back then, we had only one mandate – to send the APC into opposition and elect Brigadier Maada Bio as President. And we did.”
He praised the party’s achievements, including winning both the 2018 and 2023 General Elections, and implementing transformative policies in education, governance, and national development. He thanked his family, especially his wife, Hawa Koroma, “She stayed home, cared for our children, and prayed for me while I was on the road. I am forever grateful.”
Koroma also acknowledged the party grassroots and offered words of encouragement to the incoming Executives:
“The power is now in your hands. Your decisions today will determine if we continue free quality education, strengthen anti-corruption efforts, and uphold President Bio’s legacy. The SLPP must remain united to lead this nation forward.
His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone and leader of the SLPP, delivered a keynote address that was both inspiring and instructive:
“This is not just a conference, it is a family meeting. Our great party, the oldest and most consequential political movement in our nation’s history, has gathered once again to renew its democratic commitment.”
He lauded the outgoing Executive for securing victories in 2018 and 2023, and emphasized the need to build upon that foundation to win the 2028 General Election.
“This two-day conference will test our discipline, reflect our maturity, honor our legacy, and define our future.”
President Bio called on members to avoid division and premature ambition: “Leadership is not about age, but character and vision. I have not endorsed any candidate. I respect every aspirant. Let the best candidate win – fairly and transparently.”
He reminded the delegates:
“We cannot win 2028 if we break apart. Let us unite and work for the common good. Let’s vote for leaders who will preserve the legacy of our founding fathers and move Sierra Leone forward.”
Bio concluded with a message of peace and continuity:
“To our young members – live our values; to our elders; lead by example. Let us remain loyal to the party. I wish you all a peaceful, successful, and historic delegates’ conference.”
The 2025 SLPP National Delegates’ Conference was a powerful moment of introspection, unity, and transition. With passionate calls for integrity, internal democracy, and visionary leadership, the SLPP has set the tone for continued governance and national progress. As the party prepares for the 2028 General Elections, one message echoed loudly across the hall: One Country, One People. United We Stand.