New Poll shows former Security Expert far ahead of rivals as Party members demand fresh leadership
The race for the All People’s Congress (APC) flagbearer position appears to be taking a dramatic turn, with Dr. Ibrahim Bangura emerging as the overwhelming favourite among party members and supporters, according to the latest opinion poll conducted by Comment Pollsters.
Political observers have often said that a day in politics can change everything, and the latest survey seems to confirm that reality. Just a few months ago, few would have predicted that Dr. Ibrahim Bangura would be leading a crowded field of ambitious APC politicians by such a commanding margin. Today, however, he stands firmly at the top of the race.
The poll, which sampled 200 APC members and supporters from various backgrounds, revealed a significant gap between Dr. Bangura and all other declared or potential contenders.
Poll Results:
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura – 64%
Bai Mahmoud Bangura – 8%
Chernor Chericoco Bah – 6%
Dr. Kaifala Marah – 6%
John Fitzgerald Kamara – 4%
Richard Konteh – 4%
Omodu Jagaban Kamara – 4%
Ady Macauley – 2%
Aki Sawyer – 2%
The results suggest that Dr. Bangura currently enjoys a level of support unmatched by any of his competitors, with nearly two-thirds of respondents indicating that he would be their preferred choice to lead the APC into the next general elections.
Growing Demand for New Leadership
One of the most striking findings of the survey is the apparent desire among APC supporters for a new generation of leadership.
Many respondents expressed frustration with what they described as the “old guard” within the party, arguing that the APC must embrace fresh ideas and a new direction after suffering defeat in two consecutive national elections.
Several participants stated that the party’s traditional power brokers had been given sufficient opportunities and that it was now time for a leader capable of reconnecting the APC with voters across Sierra Leone.
According to respondents, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura represents that change.
Message of Unity Resonates
A recurring theme throughout the survey was the popularity of Dr. Bangura’s message of unity and reconciliation.
Supporters praised him for advocating a politics that seeks to unite APC supporters rather than deepen internal divisions. Many argued that after years of factional disagreements and internal competition, the party needs a figure who can bring together all shades of opinion under one banner.
Respondents described Dr. Bangura as a calm, strategic and forward-looking leader capable of rebuilding confidence within the APC while also appealing to independent voters and young people.
Political analysts believe that this emphasis on unity may be one of the key reasons behind his growing popularity.
Rivals Struggle to Gain Momentum
While several other aspirants remain active and influential within the party, the poll suggests that they face an uphill battle in closing the gap.
Bai Mahmoud Bangura finished a distant second with 8 percent, while both Chernor Chericoco Bah and Dr. Kaifala Marah received 6 percent each.
John Fitzgerald Kamara, Richard Konteh and Omodu Jagaban Kamara each secured 4 percent support.
Interestingly, some respondents referred to Jagaban as the “promises man,” suggesting that while his ambitions are well known, many APC supporters are looking beyond campaign promises and seeking concrete plans for the future.
Ady Macauley and Aki Sawyer received 2 percent support each.
APC Members Looking Toward 2028
With the next electoral cycle gradually approaching, discussions surrounding the future leadership of the APC are expected to intensify.
Although party delegates will ultimately determine who becomes the flagbearer opinion polls often provide an early indication of grassroots sentiment.
For now, the latest survey paints a clear picture: Dr. Ibrahim Bangura has established himself as the early frontrunner in the contest.
Whether he can maintain this momentum remains to be seen, but the message emerging from many APC supporters is unmistakable. They believe the party needs a fresh face, a unifying message, and a leader capable of restoring the APC’s electoral fortunes.
At this stage of the race, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura appears to be the candidate most APC supporters believe can deliver that vision.
