Lawrence Leema Declares Interest in Succeeding President Bio in 2028

Former Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Lahai Lawrence Leema, has publicly declared his intention to succeed President Julius Maada Bio, describing it as his firm “determination and ambition” ahead of the 2028 general elections.

In a recent interview with Truth Media, Leema revealed that he has already communicated his aspiration directly to President Bio through personal engagement. He noted that he has also consulted relevant stakeholders and his political base about his plan to contest the leadership of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) when President Bio’s tenure concludes.

Leema further disclosed that he has formally expressed his intention to the President in writing, including through text messages, signaling his readiness to vie for the party’s top position at the appropriate time.

According to him, his political ambition is driven by a commitment to continue the governance trajectory of the current administration and support a stable transition of leadership.

As the SLPP begins to look ahead to its future leadership and the 2028 electoral cycle, Leema’s declaration adds to the emerging internal conversations about who will steer the party into the next national elections.