By: Saidu Jalloh
At the 14th National Delegates Conference of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), President Julius Maada Bio delivered a clarion call for unity, democratic integrity, and steadfast loyalty, urging party members to pave the way for an unprecedented third consecutive election victory.
President Bio emphasized: “Don’t just participate in the democratic process, we must set the gold standard … there should be no room for intimidation.” He insisted that the SLPP lead by example in fairness, transparency, and political tolerance.
In a heartfelt declaration, he stated, “I have contested and lost elections, and I have also contested and won elections. I have always displayed loyalty to the ideals of the Sierra Leone People’s Party.” The statement was met with strong applause, reflecting his audience’s emotional connection and respect.
He challenged the party: “No party has won elections in Sierra Leone three times in a row, we are going to do it.” President Bio called on SLPP members to remain focused on governance and unity to achieve this historic milestone.
Injecting humor to convey firmness, he quipped: “Ar nor gee u baton yet you don begin run, usai you dae go?” (You haven’t received the baton yet and are already running). He stressed that current efforts should focus on delivering for the 2023–2028 mandate, not early campaigns.
The event, themed “One Country, One People,” gathered SLPP stakeholders nationwide.
Delegates reviewed party achievements, shaped internal strategy, and reaffirmed commitment to strong governance.
President Bio’s message aligns with earlier party directives emphasizing discipline and integrity. In February 2025, the SLPP Secretariat issued strict guidelines for internal elections mandating compliance with party rules, transparency, and fair conduct among all participants. Breaches would lead to disciplinary action.
In June 2025, he also addressed supporters during a celebratory event at State Lodge, underscoring the need for unity ahead of internal decisions for the 2028 general elections. He urged party members to suppress emotional politics and focus on delivering victories.
The conference served as a defining moment for the SLPP to reaffirm its identity: a party grounded in democratic participation, collective loyalty, and policy delivery. President Bio’s clear and focused speech not only motivated delegates but also laid out expectations that the entire party must honor in striving toward sustainable governance and electoral success.