In a significant development in Sierra Leonean politics, Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella has officially stepped down from his leadership role within the National Grand Coalition (NGC) party.
Yumkella’s resignation, effective immediately, was conveyed in a heartfelt letter addressed to the NGC’s key stakeholders.
In the letter, Yumkella emphasized his unwavering commitment to the NGC party’s core values, particularly its vision of promoting unity, diversity, and national pride transcending political differences for the betterment of Sierra Leone.
The former NGC leader expressed profound gratitude to his colleagues, party members, and well-wishers for their dedication in building the NGC party.
Yumkella’s notable contributions included standing as the party’s presidential candidate in the 2018 elections and serving as the leader in the fifth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone, representing Constituency 062. He also ran as a parliamentary candidate for the party in the recent June 24, 2023, elections.
Yumkella’s decision to resign from the NGC leadership is attributed to his appointment as Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security by President Julius Maada Bio. In his letter, he stressed the monumental responsibilities associated with this role and the need for his undivided attention to address critical climate issues, policy coherence, and adaptation efforts.
Yumkella stated, “To serve effectively in these roles, I must relinquish my responsibilities within the NGC party.”
He maintained that the NGC party was intended to be an institution for positive change and expressed hope that his departure would provide an opportunity for the party to grow under new leadership and continue its mission of bettering Sierra Leone.
In conclusion, Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella expressed deep gratitude for the relationships and support he received throughout his political journey. While he acknowledged that some may be disappointed by his decision, he hoped they would understand and support his new endeavors.
Yumkella extended his best wishes to the NGC party as it moves forward under renewed leadership, confident that the party’s commitment to a united and prosperous Sierra Leone would remain steadfast.
