2028 Succession Debate: Caulker Urges Bio to Learn From APC-SLPP History

Sierra Leonean journalist and political commentator Edward W. J. Caulker has expressed hope that President Julius Maada Bio will draw lessons from the political experience of the All People’s Congress (APC) under former President Ernest Bai Koroma as the country moves closer to the 2028 general elections.

Speaking on AYV, Caulker reflected on Sierra Leone’s past political transitions, emphasizing that both the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the APC have gone through leadership succession processes that offer important lessons for the future.

He pointed to key moments in the country’s political history, including the SLPP’s 2007 delegates’ conference and the APC’s 2018 internal leadership contest, noting that such experiences should guide current political actors in managing succession within their parties.

“I hope President Bio has learned from the SLPP’s 2007 delegates’ conference and the APC’s 2018 delegates’ conference. This will be a true test of the SLPP’s democratic maturity,” Caulker said.

According to him, the manner in which President Bio handles internal party transitions could shape the future of the SLPP, just as former President Ernest Bai Koroma’s leadership decisions influenced the APC during his time in office.

Caulker further argued that political parties often face growing internal challenges after prolonged periods in government, as cohesion and focus can weaken over time.

He stressed that maintaining party discipline and effective internal management is crucial, particularly during leadership selection and succession periods.

His remarks come at a time of increasing public debate over political succession and party unity ahead of the 2028 elections, with attention gradually shifting to how the ruling SLPP will navigate its internal democratic processes.

The comments have added to broader discussions on democratic maturity within Sierra Leone’s political parties and the need for leaders to learn from past experiences to prevent internal divisions.