Dr Ibrahim Bangura: The Healer, Unifier And Builder

By Massah Nyandebo

This young, energetic, high-spirited development expert has embarked on a political mission poised to change the ugly political narrative in Sierra Leone. Irrespective of the political party or institution, tribe or region Sierra Leoneans are affiliated to, Dr Ibrahim Bangura believes we all belong to one family that is Sierra Leone. He believes the politics of hate, fear, intimidation and self-exile should no longer be encouraged in our political trajectory.

Since his physical appearance on the political stage in quest of the flagbearership of the All People’s Congress (APC), I have religiously monitored his engagements nationwide on social media, in the print and electronic media. Though a member of the ruling party, I have developed special interest in his moderate approach filled with humility, compassion and commitment to unity and peace not only in his political party, the APC, but in all other political parties including the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).

“We are all Sierra Leoneans and we must treat each other with respect and love. I see no reason why members of the SLPP should flee this country for fear of intimidation because the APC is in power. The same applies to the APC. It is always our responsibility to stay back and contribute to national development until the next elections” Dr Ibrahim Bangura reiterated in one of his political engagements, adding that the politics of intimidation and threat should no longer be entertained in Sierra Leone.

I have never, in any of his engagements, heard incendiary messages, incitements, call for physical confrontations and tribal sentiments. To me, Dr Ibrahim Bangura believes that internal, local and national elections are not moments for physical confrontations or other forms of violence, but it’s about making a choice that would attract support from loyalists, elites, grassroots, the aged amongst others. As for the flagbearership, the delegates must be encouraged and positively convinced, not coerced or negatively influenced to vote for a flagbearer that inspires confidence and present a compelling vision that would ensure victory at the national polls.

I strongly believe Dr Ibrahim Bangura possesses the national electoral appeal, competence, integrity to pose a strong challenge to whoever emerges at the flagbearer of the SLPP. Among all the flagbearer aspirants in the APC, the unblemished, unassuming development oriented expert stands the chance to clinch the standard-bearer position ahead of the 2028.