Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a resounding show of party cohesion, the All People’s Congress (APC) convened its National Leadership Mammoth Meeting at Attouga Mini Stadium on Saturday, January 31, 2026, where all aspiring candidates for the party’s top positions appeared together on stage.<
The event, held in the heart of Freetown’s Eastern Area, attracted thousands of party members, executives, flagbearers, and supporters, underscoring the opposition party’s commitment to unity ahead of internal elections and the broader push toward the 2028 national polls.
The gathering marked a pivotal moment for the APC, Sierra Leone’s main opposition force, which has been rebuilding its base since losing power to the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in the 2018 elections.
Amid ongoing debates over constitutional reviews and electoral systems like proportional representation, the meeting emphasized collective strength over individual rivalries.
Prominent figures, including potential flagbearers and party hierarchies, addressed the crowd, highlighting themes of fairness, consultation, and shared progress.
One attendee captured the spirit, noting the “electric energy” as chants of party slogans filled the air, with participants donning the APC’s iconic red and white attire.
Party officials described the joint appearance as a deliberate strategy to dispel notions of internal discord. “Prior to the internal party contests, their combined presence sent a purposeful and potent message of solidarity to party members and supporters, highlighting unity and a common goal,” echoed sentiments from the event’s organizers.
This aligns with the APC’s broader agenda, as outlined in pre-event announcements, to chart a roadmap for reclaiming governance by addressing national challenges such as economic inflation, youth unemployment, and infrastructure delays under the current administration led by President Julius Maada Bio.
The Sierra Leone Police granted approval for the rally earlier in January, ensuring a peaceful assembly despite the large turnout.
As the APC prepares for its primaries, the Attouga meeting serves as a benchmark for inclusive politics in a nation still healing from the contentious 2023 elections, which faced allegations of irregularities.
Political analysts view the display as a signal to both domestic audiences and international observers that the party is resilient and focused on national development. With Sierra Leone’s economy under strain, the opposition’s unified stance could bolster its appeal among voters seeking alternatives.
The event’s success, devoid of reported incidents, reinforces the APC’s narrative of maturity and vision, potentially setting the tone for future engagements as the road to 2028 unfolds.
