By Alimatu Jalloh
In the lead-up to the 2018 presidential elections, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura played a significant role in financing and conducting voter education for first-time APC voters across Sierra Leone. His efforts focused on training young citizens on electoral processes to ensure the party secured valid votes.
In December 2017, Dr. Bangura organized a training session in Freetown, gathering 150 young APC members aged 18-23 from various communities and institutions. The training covered essential topics, including voter registration, completing ballot papers, filling ballots correctly, and understanding basic electoral laws. Participants also learned how to cast valid votes and support APC candidates at all levels of government.
Dr. Bangura emphasized the importance of every vote, urging participants to educate others in their communities. He explained that his involvement in voter training stemmed from his commitment to democracy and the need for greater participation from APC stakeholders in preparing new voters.
Attendees from different regions shared their experiences, expressing gratitude for the initiative. One participant, Alimamy Sesay, admitted he had never voted before and found the training invaluable in learning how to cast a valid vote. Another, Isata Coker, noted that her blind mother had always wanted to vote for APC, and she now felt equipped to guide her through the process.
The training, conducted alongside a Door-to-Door voter outreach campaign, included provisions for food and transportation for participants.
Dr. Bangura, considered a strong contender for the APC flag bearer position in 2026, has also led similar voter training programs in other African countries. His commitment to youth development and political education continues to shape APC’s engagement with new voters.