Sierra Leone's veteran journalist and Chairman of the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), Sorie Fofana, has called on the Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) to prioritise peace and unity as internal tensions rise. Disagreements have intensified within the ruling party over Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally's membership status. Fofana expressed concern over the current dynamics, stating that the party should promote unity and avoid actions that might exacerbate divisions ahead of the 2028 elections.
The controversy surrounding Tarawally's SLPP membership status has led to public statements and legal disputes. On September 17, 2026, SLPP Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa instructed Tarawally to cease presenting himself as a party member, citing information from the Citizens Democratic Party (CDP). However, Tarawally denies this, insisting he resigned from the CDP in 2018 and returned to the SLPP. His legal team argues that membership issues should follow constitutional and disciplinary processes.
Fofana described Tarawally's situation as "unfortunate," highlighting his long-standing ties to the SLPP. He added that the party has a history of managing internal conflicts and emphasised the need for leadership to prioritise unity. Fofana's comments come as concerns about factionalism and hostility among party supporters, particularly on social media, are prevalent.
Fofana's call for dialogue aims to prevent the current membership dispute from escalating further. He stressed the importance of clarifying positions and seeking a resolution that serves the SLPP's broader interests. Fofana suggested that Songa and Tarawally engage directly to find common ground, a step that could help avert further conflict.
Fofana's plea comes at a time when Sierra Leone faces significant national challenges, such as economic pressures and youth unemployment. He underscored the need for the SLPP to maintain internal stability as the 2028 elections approach. The party's ability to manage internal conflicts will be crucial in addressing the country's challenges.
Ultimately, Fofana's message is clear: political disagreements should be addressed constructively to foster reconciliation rather than division. He hopes SLPP leaders, including President Dr Julius Maada Bio, will heed his call for unity and focus on collective interests over individual disputes.
As the party prepares for future challenges, Fofana's comments serve as a reminder of the importance of unity and stability. The SLPP's response to the current internal divisions will be crucial in determining the party's future and its ability to address Sierra Leone's pressing national challenges.
Key points
- Sorie Fofana urges SLPP to focus on unity amid internal disputes.
- The controversy surrounding Tarawally's membership status has led to public statements and legal disputes.
- Fofana's call for dialogue aims to prevent the current membership dispute from escalating further.
