Presidential aspirant under Sierra Leone’s All People’s Congress (APC), Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, has declared that women will remain at the centre of his vision for Sierra Leone, while calling for unity, economic inclusion and an end to political division across the country.
Dr. Bangura made the remarks in Makeni shortly after Eid-Ul-Adha prayers while addressing groups of women who visited him in solidarity with his campaign.
Speaking passionately about the role of women in politics and national development, Dr. Bangura said the women of Bombali had resolved to take ownership of his political movement.
“I was informed about the women gathered here today, and they told me that the women of Bombali have decided to own this campaign and ensure that it succeeds at the end of the day,” he said.
According to him, no political movement can succeed without the backing of women.
“When you want to win in politics, you need the support of women. If women stand up for you, they will ensure your victory. And our own victory will be dedicated to women,” he stated.
The APC presidential hopeful said his campaign represents a new direction for Sierra Leone, with women and young people forming the foundation of his national agenda.
“Women are at the centre of the programmes we are bringing. We want to see every girl child attend the schools they desire to attend. We want to see our girls go to university and receive the kind of education that prepares them for life and for the modern world,” Dr. Bangura said.
He added that his movement seeks to build a country where young graduates can easily secure employment and where citizens no longer struggle with hunger and economic hardship.
“We want a Sierra Leone where young people do not graduate from university and spend years searching for jobs. By the time you leave school, you should be able to get your dream job,” he said.
Speaking on national unity, Dr. Bangura lamented growing political tension, tribal division and hatred in the country, insisting that Sierra Leoneans must begin to see themselves as one people regardless of region or ethnicity.
“We are tired of all the fighting happening everywhere — the hate, the division and the constant tension,” he noted.
“Whether you are from Bombali or Kailahun, your surname or where you come from should become less important. We want to build a country where the economy works for everyone.”
In one of the most striking moments of his speech, Dr. Bangura said the economic suffering facing Sierra Leoneans cuts across political, tribal and religious lines.
“Our pains do not know tribe, religion or ethnicity. The price of food does not carry the colour of any political party,” he declared.
He concluded by reaffirming the core message of his campaign movement.
“Our campaign is not about hate or fighting. We preach unity, and our mantra remains: Heal, Unite and Build.”