Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally has rejected claims of his disqualification from the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) after a letter, attributed to SLPP National Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa, directed him to cease presenting himself as a party member and refrain from using the party’s logo or representing the party. Tarawally affirmed his status as a fully paid-up member and delegate, stating, "I am a fully paid-up member and delegate of the SLPP. I voted at the past National Delegates Conference." He further clarified his participation in the 2025 SLPP National Delegates Conference, where he served as a credentialed National Delegate and cast a vote. "I was a credentialed National Delegate at that convention. I voted," Tarawally said, adding, "I remain a loyal, card-carrying, dues-paying member of the SLPP — fully paid up to 2028. I am a Grand Chief Patron. I am a National Delegate. I am an aspirant for the SLPP Flagbearer position." He concluded, "I am SLPP. I remain SLPP. And I will not be intimidated."
Tarawally's firm stance comes in response to the directive from Chairman Songa, which sought to disassociate him from the party. He emphasized that his membership is current and his commitment to the SLPP unwavering, noting his active participation in key party events. The dispute has brought to light questions regarding internal party procedures and the authority of its leadership.
Challenging Party Directive
Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally stated that the National Chairman lacks unilateral authority to terminate his party membership or prevent his participation in party processes. Tarawally argued that any disciplinary action taken against a party member must adhere to the procedures outlined in the party’s constitution, which includes providing the affected member with an opportunity to respond. He challenged the directive issued against him and urged the party to address the matter through its established internal structures. This challenge shows his belief that due process must be followed, even in matters of party discipline. Tarawally indicated his readiness to pursue legal remedies to address any damage to his reputation and political standing. He cited Section 26 of Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution, which pertains to freedom of assembly and association, as a fundamental right protecting his ability to participate in political life.
The implications of such a directive, if upheld, could extend beyond party membership. The constitution's Section 77(1) primarily outlines the conditions under which a Member of Parliament may vacate a parliamentary seat, including ceasing to be a member of the political party under which the member was elected. Tarawally's reference to this section suggests a potential concern for his political future, should the party's claims of his disqualification gain traction. His insistence on constitutional adherence reflects a broader principle of democratic governance within political organizations.
Tarawally's assertion that the National Chairman does not possess the sole power to dictate membership status notes a potential internal conflict over authority within the SLPP. He maintains that the party's constitution provides clear guidelines for such actions, which must be respected to ensure fairness and transparency for all members. His call for the matter to be resolved through appropriate party structures indicates a desire for an internal, constitutional resolution rather than an arbitrary decision.
History of Party Allegiance
Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally asserts he formally departed from the Citizens Democratic Party (CDP) in 2018. He presented a resignation letter, dated June 15, 2018, which was addressed to the Secretary General of the CDP. The letter explicitly stated his resignation was "to return to the SLPP," indicating his clear and stated intent to rejoin the Sierra Leone People's Party at that time. This formal documentation is central to his argument that his allegiance shifted unequivocally.
Tarawally clarified that since his resignation, he has not made any membership dues payments to the CDP. He also stated that he has not attended any of its meetings or participated in any activities associated with the party during this period. His actions, he contends, demonstrate a clear separation from the CDP following his 2018 departure, reinforcing his claim of continuous loyalty to the SLPP. He emphasized that his disengagement from the CDP was complete and immediate upon his decision to return to the SLPP.
He further stated that his political activities since 2018 have been exclusively centered on the Sierra Leone People's Party. This focus, according to Tarawally, shows his commitment and allegiance to the SLPP since his declared return to the party. He maintains that his consistent engagement with SLPP affairs since that time supports his claim of continuous membership and loyalty, serving as evidence against any suggestions of dual party affiliation or disloyalty. His active involvement in SLPP initiatives and events since 2018, he argues, unequivocally demonstrates his dedication to the party's goals and principles.
SLPP Membership Claims
Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally asserts he has fulfilled his financial obligations to the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), claiming his membership dues are paid up until 2028. He also states that he currently holds the position of Grand Chief Patron within the party, a title that typically signifies significant contributions and standing. Tarawally cited various financial and organizational contributions he has made to the SLPP, showing his commitment and active role. These contributions, according to Tarawally, include providing substantial financial support for party activities, which are key for the party's day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives. He also mentioned contributing to campaign efforts, demonstrating his involvement in the party's political endeavors and electoral successes. Tarawally noted his support for the construction of SLPP party offices, indicating tangible investments in the party's infrastructure and long-term development.
These claims of financial and organizational support are presented as concrete evidence of his deep-rooted commitment to the SLPP. By detailing his paid-up membership through 2028 and his status as a Grand Chief Patron, Tarawally seeks to invalidate any assertions that he is not a legitimate and valued member of the party. His consistent financial and material contributions, he argues, are not merely token gestures but reflect a sustained dedication to the party’s welfare and success. This full account of his involvement aims to firmly establish his credentials and refute the disqualification claims.
