By Abdul Kamara
Prominent lecturer and political analyst, Dr. Victor Moinina, has ignited public debate after suggesting that the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) may not be ready to relinquish power to the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) in the 2028 general elections.
Speaking during a recent broadcast on Liberty Online TV, Dr. Moinina argued that the SLPP’s recent political maneuvers indicate a firm intention to retain control beyond the current electoral term. He pointed to the emergence of what he described as a “radical executive” within the SLPP as evidence of a deliberate strategy to strengthen the party’s hold on power.
“The SLPP has structured itself in such a way that it is ready to resist losing power,” Dr. Moinina said. “The executive they have elected is not just symbolic; it is one with the resilience and determination to ensure that the party stays in governance.”
His remarks come amid growing political tension as both major parties intensify preparations for the next electoral cycle. Dr. Moinina also turned his attention to the opposition APC, warning that unresolved internal disputes could undermine its ability to mount a strong challenge in 2028.
He noted that while the APC has a history of turning relatively unknown figures into major presidential contenders, such a strategy could backfire if not managed carefully. “The APC has unique approach to leadership selection,” he said. “What begins as unpopular often becomes powerful with time. It’s part of their political DNA, but internal divisions could ruin that advantage if not addressed.”
Dr. Moinina cautioned that the APC’s ongoing internal wrangling ahead of its lower-level elections poses a serious threat to its unity and credibility. “The APC must put its house in order. These internal disputes could become a stumbling block if the party wants to present itself as a credible alternative,” he emphasized.
His analysis has sparked widespread discussion within political circles, with many interpreting it as a reflection of broader concerns about Sierra Leone’s political stability and the strength of its democratic institutions.
Observers say Dr. Moinina’s comments touch on a sensitive issue , the country’s long-standing political rivalry between the SLPP and APC, which has often defined Sierra Leone’s governance landscape.
While some have described his remarks as provocative, others believe they raise important questions about the integrity of future elections and the willingness of political parties to respect democratic transitions.
As Sierra Leone moves closer to the 2028 polls, both the ruling SLPP and the opposition APC face mounting pressure to demonstrate their commitment to unity, transparency, and democratic governance. For now, Dr. Moinina’s statements have set off a national conversation that is likely to shape political discourse in the months and years to come.