‘Chericoco’: A Battle-Tested Leader Poised to Lead APC in 2028
By Abu Bakarr Dumbuya
In the ongoing debate over who holds the greatest influence among Sierra Leone’s youth, there is little room for doubt regarding the All Peoples Congress (APC) Party.
For those of us who remain steadfast “Koromanists,” the signs of victory are clear—former President Ernest Bai Koroma’s enduring legacy remains a formidable advantage that could propel the APC back to the State House.
The 2028 presidential election will be pivotal, and the APC must approach this contest with a winning mindset.
The mission ahead demands strategy, energy, party cohesion, dedication, and a deep understanding of governance and political dynamics. In this regard, one name stands out: Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, widely known as “Chericoco.” A seasoned lawyer, accomplished politician, and dedicated philanthropist, Hon. Bah has built an exceptional career defined by professionalism and service. Through his legal practice, he has played a crucial role in shaping Sierra Leone’s justice system, consistently advocating for fairness and strengthening the rule of law. Beyond his contributions to the legal field, his firm has long championed the interests of the APC, reflecting his unwavering commitment to the party’s progress and success.
Despite his relatively young age, Hon. Bah has demonstrated that age is no barrier to effective leadership. With extensive experience in governance, opposition, and party administration, he possesses a rare blend of skills and knowledge essential for national leadership. His deep familiarity with parliamentary procedures and state laws, gained through years of service in the legislative arm of government, has made him a respected figure in Sierra Leone’s political landscape. The people of Constituency 110 in 2007 and 2012 and Constituency 126 in 2018 after the boundary delimitation have shown their trust in his leadership, electing him to Parliament three times—a testament to his ability to deliver and remain connected with his constituents. Renowned for his eloquence and insight, he has distinguished himself as one of the most formidable debaters in the House of Parliament. Hon.
Bah’s political journey has been shaped by his roots in the APC stronghold of Brookfields, where he honed his understanding of party politics under the mentorship of some of the party’s most influential figures. His dedication and loyalty to the APC have earned him the reputation of being a true “Party Pikin,” a title reflecting his lifelong commitment to the party’s ideals and vision. With a leadership style reminiscent of former President Ernest Bai Koroma and the approachable, cheerful demeanor of Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray, Hon. Bah embodies the qualities the APC needs to secure victory in 2028.His widespread popularity extends beyond his constituency, resonating across Freetown and reaching as far as Kono, Kailahun, Falaba, and Koinadugu. A passionate advocate for education, Hon. Bah has consistently supported the development of young people, transcending political and regional divides.
His collaborative efforts with notable figures like Hon. Tunde Lewally and Nuru Deen Sankoh-Yillah popular voices of ‘Fourah Bay and Fullah Tong’ were often met with widespread enthusiasm and celebration, particularly in the cosmopolitan, Western Area. Hon. Bah’s leadership credentials are well-established. As a former Deputy Speaker and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, he has served at the highest levels of governance. His tenure as head of Sierra Leone’s delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament further underscores his expertise in regional diplomacy and global cooperation. From his partisan experience, Chericoco was the young man President Ernest Bai Koroma (former) anointed as a true representative of the young people not just for the APC but for Sierra Leone. Leadership is his calling. He doesn’t limit his politics to tribe, region or religion.
He has huge patience one akin to Ernest Bai Koroma, many are saying. He is a devoted Muslim, but will recite the Lord’s Prayer like a true May Park Boy high school Graduate. The responsibility of leadership of Sierra Leone comes with more burdens. The APC has got a natural succession. From being Secretary to Western Region under the dynamic chairmanship of Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray, to being Deputy Western Regional Chairman to Agba Pat-Sowe, Hon. Chericoco also as an Acting Western Regional Chairman won every By-election under his care. The APC has already presented Hon. Bah to the electorate in the 2018 and 2023 elections, solidifying his national recognition and appeal. With his name and face on the ballot, victory has often followed. As the party looks ahead to 2028, it requires a dynamic, youthful leader with the experience, vision, and charisma to unite and inspire. Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah is undoubtedly the right candidate to lead the APC into a new era of progress and triumph. His proven track record, unwavering dedication, and deep understanding of Sierra Leone’s political landscape; his influence among the Muslim community across Sierra Leone and his contribution to sports, notably football, having served as the Chairman of Brookfields United and later Old Edwardians Football Club, position him as the best choice to deliver victory for the APC—a victory for every Sierra Leonean.
