By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
In a rare and commendable show of political maturity, leaders of Sierra Leone’s two main political parties the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) came together at the SLPP National Delegates’ Conference held earlier this week at the prestigious Bintumani International Conference Centre in Aberdeen, Freetown.
The gathering marked a significant moment of political tolerance and national unity, as both parties acknowledged the value of collaboration, mutual respect, and constructive dialogue in advancing Sierra Leone’s democratic development.
Traditionally marked by tensions and rivalry, the relationship between the SLPP and APC took a hopeful turn during this high-profile event, as leaders from both sides exchanged ideas and shared reflections on the past and present—despite the sensitivity of the occasion, which saw the SLPP electing new national officers to steer the party forward.
The conference brought together a wide range of participants, including opposition leaders, civil society representatives, international development partners, media practitioners, legal professionals, security personnel, and organizations promoting peace and democracy in Sierra Leone.
Addressing the gathering, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, who also serves as Leader of the SLPP, praised APC stalwart and Deputy National Chairman, Ambassador Osman Foday Yansaneh, along with other opposition leaders, for honoring the SLPP’s invitation.
“The SLPP is an open-minded party,” President Bio said. “Despite our political differences, we continue to meet and discuss issues of national importance. I am happy to see the main opposition party’s leadership here today, as we elect new national leaders to steer the ship of our great party.”
President Bio emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation between political parties in fostering national development. “With peace, unity, and oneness, we can achieve much more for the people of our beloved nation,” he said.
In his response, Ambassador Osman Foday Yansaneh described the APC’s attendance at the conference as a symbol of political tolerance. He acknowledged the SLPP’s gesture as a mark of respect and a critical step toward strengthening Sierra Leone’s democratic institutions.
“The APC and SLPP are not enemies. We both owe the people of Sierra Leone our best efforts,” Yansaneh said. “Declining such an invitation would have undermined the spirit of political cooperation we are trying to build.”
Other political stakeholders and representatives of smaller parties commended the SLPP for its inclusive approach. Civil society advocates and political commentators alike praised the party’s effort to engage with all political actors, describing it as a strong message of openness and peace.
As Sierra Leone looks ahead to the 2028 national elections, many citizens hope that this spirit of political tolerance and cooperation will continue to shape a more peaceful and democratic electoral process.