By Alusine Sesay
Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Chairman Batilo Songa has reaffirmed his commitment to party unity and discipline as the SLPP positions itself for the 2028 general elections. Speaking in a recent interview with Premier News, Songa emphasized that his leadership reflects the party’s founding principle of “One Country, One People.”
Leadership Amidst Internal Challenges
Despite his focus on strengthening the SLPP, Chairman Songa has faced internal resistance from individuals and groups accused of undermining his efforts. He described such actions as counterproductive, warning that internal sabotage erodes trust, distracts from grassroots mobilization, and weakens the party’s chances at the ballot box.
“This is not the time for factionalism,” Songa stated. “My role is to foster unity and mutual respect, and I will not allow anyone to dictate how I carry out my responsibilities.”
Achievements Under His Tenure
- Chairman Songa highlighted several milestones achieved under his leadership:
- Financial Strengthening: Raising approximately Six Billion Old Leone to support party activities.
- Transparency & Accountability: Introducing financial reporting and a strategic plan to enhance credibility.
- Attractiveness & Growth: Implementing reforms to make the party more appealing to members.
- Discipline & Cohesion: Enforcing standards that strengthen unity and respect across the party.
Focus on Unity, Not Flagbearer Race
Songa stressed that the flagbearer contest has not yet begun, insisting that his immediate priority is consolidating party unity and ensuring effective functioning. He underscored the importance of openness and accessibility, noting that engaging with members and bringing senior figures closer to the party’s administrative leadership is key to long-term success.
Call for Collective Support
The SLPP Chairman urged party stakeholders to put aside personal rivalries and ambitions, and instead contribute constructively to the party’s mission. He emphasized that unity does not mean the absence of disagreement, but rather resolving differences in ways that advance the collective interest.
“Chairman Batilo Songa deserves support, not subversion. Cooperation, not conspiracy. Progress, not politics of destruction,” he declared.
As the SLPP prepares for the 2028 elections, Songa’s message remains clear: unity is non-negotiable, and internal backstabbing has no place in a party determined to secure victory.