By Abdul Kamara

Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has placed a ban on all forms of political campaigning for the party’s flagbearer position ahead of the 2028 general elections.

The announcement was made by the SLPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Moses Mambu, in an exclusive interview with Liberty Online TV. The move comes amid growing speculation that some senior party members and government officials are quietly preparing to contest for the party’s top ticket when President Julius Maada Bio’s tenure ends in 2028.

According to Mambu, the decision was reached by the party’s leadership to ensure that focus remains on governance and national development rather than internal political competition.

“No member of the SLPP should at this point declare their interest in becoming flagbearer or organize any official gathering for that purpose,” Mambu stated. “However, we cannot stop ordinary supporters from expressing their opinions, singing, or dancing in support of whoever they favour. What matters most is that members of the party must respect this ban.”

The directive, he explained, is not aimed at any particular individual but applies to all potential aspirants. Analysts say the measure is designed to prevent early succession battles that could sow division within the SLPP and distract from its governance agenda.

The party is preparing for a post-Bio era, as the president approaches the end of his second and final constitutional term. The 2028 flagbearer race is widely expected to be competitive, with several high-profile figures rumored to have ambitions of succeeding him.

For now, however, the SLPP insists that governance takes priority. “The people of Sierra Leone expect delivery on promises, not early campaigning,” Mambu emphasized, adding that when the official time comes, the party will open the process fairly for all aspirants.

Political observers note that the ruling party’s move reflects a cautious approach to managing internal politics, especially given Sierra Leone’s history of party divisions fueled by premature campaigning.

As the countdown to 2028 continues, attention will be on whether party members abide by the directive, or whether whispers of succession will continue to ripple through the SLPP base.