Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Sierra Leone People’s Party Flagbearer Aspirant, Brigadier General (Rtd) Kellie Conteh has emphasized the need for the SLPP to select its next flag bearer from outside the Southern Province, urging the party to adopt a more inclusive approach ahead of the 2028 Presidential election.
In a statement made following the Flag Bearer Debate Forum held on June 27, 2025, Conteh expressed concerns over the party’s current trajectory, warning against the continuation of “elected-selection” practices that may undermine the democratic process.
Conteh acknowledged the presence of many qualified candidates within the party but stressed that the selection process must reflect the diverse interests of all regions in Sierra Leone. “We need to consider the other four regions East, North, Northwest, and West in our choice of a flag bearer to strengthen our inclusiveness and unity,” he stated.
He recalled the party’s previous decision to support Retired Brigadier Julius Maada Bio from the Southern Province to succeed late President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, arguing that it would be unfair to elect another leader from the same region.
In addition to regional representation, Conteh proposed several criteria for the flag bearer selection process. He suggested that the candidate should be no older than mid-sixties, allowing for fresh, dynamic leadership while reserving older members for advisory roles. He also called for a clean break from the current leadership after the 2028 elections, allowing the first family to retire peacefully.
Conteh further urged the next flag bearer to be courageous in addressing existing agreements related to the country’s natural resources, advocating for changes that would better benefit Sierra Leone’s economy.
He acknowledged that those suggestions might be controversial but insisted on the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths to ensure the party’s future success.
“Let me pause for now,” Conteh concluded, inviting further discussion on his proposals. He expressed hope that the party would consider his suggestions as part of a broader strategy to unite and strengthen the SLPP for the upcoming elections.
As a renowned political figure, Conteh has held various significant positions, including National Security Coordinator and Minister of Defence, and is recognized for his contributions to security sector reform both in Sierra Leone and internationally.
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