As SLPP Ponders Over 2028 Election… Money Should Not Determine the Next Flag Bearer

Echo of the Pen!
By: Lansana Fofanah

The current executive of the ruling Sierra Leone Peoples Party, (SLPP) is contemplating on the proposed amendment of the existing constitution of the party ahead of the Flag bearer election hopefully this year.
In his recent appearance on Truth Media, the National Secretary of the party, Umar Paran Tarawally said that, if they are to strictly follow the provisions of the 2020 Constitution to conduct the flag bearer election, several aspiring candidates that have openly declared to run, will not be qualified based on the existing criteria. This he said would not reflect the principle of democracy and fairness.
According to him, only few distinguished patrons, the current executive members and past officers meet the criteria. And if they are to interpret the constitution further, even members of the new executive will be disqualified based on their tenure of service.
Already, there is a growing concern within the party for Chairman Batilo Songo and his team to push for an immediate amendment of the constitution so that aspiring candidates would know their fate.
Indeed, making the constitution flexible to accommodate several aspirants will definitely raise huge amount of money from candidature fee, since there are notably big spenders waiting to be part of the process.
As many await such a process, delegates must tread cautiously and think about the future of the party should they decide to choose money over competency.
The future of the SLPP lies in the hands of the delegates that will be chosen the next flag bearer. Prominent names have already been tipped to be interested in the race while some have started displaying their financial powers.
This is a crucial moment for the delegates to reflect on the potential of those vying and possibly highlights some criteria that must be met before anyone deserves their votes.
Their minds must be free from any financial commitment or influence that will be a detriment to their free will of decision making.
They should be willing to elect a candidate that will be accepted beyond the SLPP family or region. A candidate with a national acceptance and appealing. Someone that will stand in the heart of the opposition and be heard and respected.
Being a delegate is a cherished opportunity bestowed by the people and must not be betrayed or misused.
Also, anyone vying to contest as flag bearer must think beyond just representing the SLPP in the polls. But to see him or herself as the right choice to deliver a victory for the party.
The survival of the SLPP beyond 2028 depends on the hard choice and sacrifice they are willing to make.
News 24 publication.