In a letter written to the Sierra Leone People’s Party Bo District Chairman on the mandate of the constituency chairman of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) to draw attention to the alleged escalating and unresolved issues in Constituency 079, Bumpe Ngao Chiefdom, which have persisted for over a year.
The key concerns include the ongoing chieftaincy dispute, the alleged assault of an Imam and a Pastor at Bongor Village by former Inspector General of Police, Michael Ambrose Sovula, and the conflict between the sitting Member of Parliament and Mr. Sovula.
Following a series of internal meetings, the constituency executive members have concluded that if these issues are not urgently addressed by the relevant authorities, they may pose serious threats to peace, stability, and political cohesion within the constituency. Failure to resolve these matters could also undermine the strong performance of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) in the area.
Constituency 079 has long been a stronghold of the SLPP, consistently delivering over 90 percent of votes in past elections. However, neglecting these concerns may weaken party unity, discourage supporters, and create opportunities for opposition influence.
There are already warning signs of growing tension. Supporters of the All People’s Congress (APC) within the constituency have reportedly been spreading misinformation, alleging that the awarding of the staff to the Paramount Chief-elect while the petition case remains before the court was directed by Julius Maada Bio and his wife. These claims have contributed to dissatisfaction among some party supporters.
Additionally, a recent letter from the United Council of Imams, addressed to the constituency chairman, announced the withdrawal of Imams at sectional, zonal, and constituency levels from all SLPP-related activities. This action is reportedly in protest over the alleged assault on one of their members.
Considering these developments, the constituency executives recommend the following actions: the judiciary should prioritize the Bumpe Ngao chieftaincy petition case and deliver a ruling before the commencement of activities for the 2028 general elections. The party should empower constituency executive members to conduct sensitization campaigns to counter misinformation being spread by the opposition. The SLPP Elders’ Council should be mandated to mediate the conflict in Bongor Village, particularly involving Michael Ambrose Sovula, and work toward a peaceful resolution.
The constituency members believe that implementing these recommendations will help restore peace, strengthen unity, and maintain the political strength of the SLPP in Constituency 079 ahead of the 2028 general elections. ‘’We therefore respectfully urge your office to give this matter the urgent attention it deserves. We look forward to your prompt response and decisive action,’’ the letter explained.