Chericoco Positions for APC Leadership in 2028

Man in a navy suit and red tie posing with hands clasped in front.
Photo via Thecalabashnewspaper

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, popularly known as Chericoco, is emerging as a potential candidate to lead the All People’s Congress (APC) in the 2028 presidential election. His consistent and prominent role within the party’s recent electoral campaigns positions him as a significant figure as discussions turn towards future leadership. Bah previously served as the APC’s vice-presidential candidate, running alongside Dr. Samura Mathew Wilson Kamara in both the 2018 and 2023 general elections. This repeated partnership in the party's highest electoral bids has given him considerable visibility and experience at the national level. His deep involvement in these critical campaigns has solidified his standing and made him a recognizable face to the party's base and the wider electorate.

A Trail of Service

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, known as Chericoco, is described as a seasoned lawyer, a former parliamentary opposition leader, and a two-time vice-presidential candidate. His political journey includes years of parliamentary service, during which he rose to become the Leader of the Opposition. This role provided him with significant experience in national governance and legislative processes, allowing him to articulate the party's stance on critical issues. Chericoco has remained closely associated with the All People’s Congress (APC) for more than two decades, solidifying his standing within the party. His long-standing commitment and continuous engagement with the party's activities and structures show his deep roots and loyalty to the APC. This extensive tenure within the party has allowed him to build a broad network of support and understanding of its internal dynamics.

Unity and Renewal Message

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah is presenting himself as a candidate advocating for unity and renewal within the All People’s Congress (APC). This messaging aligns with his public appearances and supporters' portrayals. He seeks to reinvigorate the party and foster internal cohesion, key elements for any successful political campaign. At a recent APC gathering held at the Attouga Mini Stadium in Freetown, his supporters characterized him not merely as a party figure, but as a national leader. The event served as a powerful platform for these messages, emphasizing a future-oriented approach for the party under his potential leadership. The enthusiastic reception he received at the stadium noted the grassroots support and momentum building behind his prospective candidacy. This public display of endorsement reinforces his image as a unifying force capable of leading the party forward.

Ambition for State House

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah has signaled his intention to contest for the All People’s Congress (APC) flagbearer position, indicating a potential bid for State House. This ambition is further showed by campaign materials currently in public circulation. These materials prominently feature the slogan, "Our Party, Our Pride, Chericoco By Our Side!", openly associating Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah with future party leadership. The public display of such campaign messaging reflects a strategic move as the party looks towards the 2028 presidential election. The early circulation of these materials demonstrates a clear and deliberate effort to position him as the frontrunner for the party's top ticket. This proactive approach aims to build recognition and consolidate support well in advance of the internal party primaries.

Broader Political Vision

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah's political vision is encapsulated in his message: "One Nation, One Destiny." This slogan aims to transcend existing ethnic, regional, and sectional divisions within Sierra Leone. His public statements emphasize a unified national identity, moving beyond partisan or demographic boundaries. Bah's proponents assert that this broad appeal is central to his strategy for potential leadership. The emphasis on unity positions him as a figure who seeks to bridge societal divides, aligning with a national rather than a narrowly factional agenda. This overarching vision suggests a commitment to inclusive governance and a desire to address the country's challenges through collective effort, appealing to a wider spectrum of the electorate beyond traditional party lines.