Batilo Songa Damns Shameless Detractors
The Chairman of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), Jimmy Batilo Songa, has strongly dismissed rumours, suggesting that he is supporting a particular candidate in the party’s forthcoming flagbearer race.
Reacting to the speculation, Chairman Songa made it clear that, as the National Chairman of the SLPP, he will not and cannot support any candidate for any position within the party. He emphasized that his role demands neutrality, fairness, and equal treatment of all party members, regardless of their ambitions.
According to Songa, his refusal to endorse any candidate does not mean he should isolate himself from party members or avoid interactions with them. He explained that engaging in conversations or taking photographs with aspirants should not be misinterpreted as support or favoritism.
“Before I was elected Chairman of the SLPP, I operated an open-door policy, and I believe that approach has taken me places and contributed to where I am today. I see no reason to change that now,” he stated.
The SLPP Chairman further noted that, in his view, the process for the election of the party’s national flagbearer has not yet officially begun. Until then, he said, all aspirants remain ordinary members of the SLPP, deserving of mutual respect and cooperation.
“As Chairman, it is my responsibility to work with everyone in the party in an atmosphere of mutual respect, I cannot effectively run the party if I choose not to interact or work closely with its members.” he stated
Addressing concerns about photographs taken with certain individuals during party activities, Songa stressed that such actions should not be politicized. He revealed that he has taken pictures with almost all potential aspirants and party stakeholders and will continue to interact freely with any SLPP member, regardless of their interests or ambitions.
“Taking pictures with members during party functions does not mean I favour one person over another, no one will stop me from interacting with any SLPP member.” he asserted
Chairman Songa concluded by emphasizing that unity and inclusiveness are essential for the effective functioning and survival of the party. He called on all members to put the collective interest of the SLPP above personal ambitions, noting that everyone must be brought on board to strengthen the party and prepare it for future political contests.
