Former Minister of Youth and seasoned APC politician Bai Mahmoud Bangura has officially declared his intention to contest for the All People’s Congress (APC) presidential flagbearer position ahead of the 2028 general elections.
He made the declaration during the launch of the Bai Mahmoud Bangura (BMB) Foundation at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown, in front of hundreds of party supporters, former youth leaders, and senior APC stalwarts from across the country.
The event was a powerful blend of politics and philanthropy, with Bangura using the platform to unveil a foundation aimed at supporting underprivileged communities and empowering young people nationwide.
“This foundation is a reflection of what I stand for — development, youth empowerment, and national transformation,” said Bangura during his keynote speech. “The time has come for fresh leadership rooted in experience and grounded in service to ordinary Sierra Leoneans.”
Party figures including Prince Tholley, former president of the Young Congress, praised Bangura’s long-standing service to the APC, recalling his tenure as National Youth League President and cabinet minister under former President Ernest Bai Koroma. Tholley said the foundation captures Bangura’s passion for building deprived communities and supporting youth development.
Deputy Publicity Secretary Mohamed Pope Kamara led a moment of silence for fallen APC comrades, while Hon. A.K.K. and Ambassador Alimamy Kamara emphasized unity, anti-tribalism, and strategic leadership as the party charts its course toward 2028.
“This is not politics for politics’ sake,” Ambassador Kamara remarked. “We are building a development-oriented APC that will be inclusive and visionary.”
Bangura, reflecting on his humble beginnings as one of 26 children raised by his sisters after the death of his father, said his life journey prepared him for national leadership.
“I was not born into privilege. I rose through perseverance, service, and commitment. And I am ready to lead this party and this country,” he said to thunderous applause.
He criticized the current administration for what he described as “state-sponsored terror and economic hardship,” vowing to restore dignity and opportunity to Sierra Leoneans if given the mandate.
“I am declaring today, officially, my intention to contest for the position of flagbearer and leader of the All People’s Congress. And I am confident that with your support, we will return to State House,” he affirmed.
The BMB Foundation, according to organizers, will roll out nationwide initiatives focused on youth skills training, education, healthcare, and rural development in the coming months.
By Feima Sesay
