SLPP Division Deepens & Widens
A heated drama unfolded in Sierra Leone’s Parliament last week when the now-famous “Cocoa Roast’ song — a political chant associated with the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) — echoed throughout the legislative chambers, triggering a storm of reactions from MPs and exposing widening cracks within the party.
The chant, which has gained traction at SLPP rallies and grassroots mobilization events, reportedly chanted by some party loyalists inside the public gallery, used subtly in referencing an alleged ongoing supremacy battle between factions of the party by certain MPs which sparked heated exchanges. While supporters saw it as a harmless expression of party pride and solidarity, critics argued that the use of campaign-style slogans in the House of Parliament was both unprofessional and a breach of parliamentary decorum.
More telling, however, was the internal fallout. Sources within the SLPP confirmed that the incident has deepened existing divisions among its lawmakers. The rift, insiders say, stems from ideological disagreements, leadership loyalty disputes, and frustration over the party’s approach to governance ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Some MPs reportedly warned that continued politicization of parliamentary proceedings could harm the party’s public image and alienate moderate supporters.
Opposition MPs seized the moment to accuse the ruling party of turning Parliament into “a campaign stage” rather than focusing on pressing national issues such as the economy, youth unemployment, and the rising cost of living.
One opposition member described the event as “a sign of a government being more focused on political theatrics, rather than focusing on alleviating the plight of the people.”
As the “Cocoa Roast’ debate continues to dominate political discussions, analysts suggest that the song has now taken on a symbolic role — not just as a rallying cry for SLPP loyalists, but also as a flashpoint in the growing factionalism threatening the party’s unity. What was once a catchy tune may now be remembered as, the spark that exposed deep and possibly damaging divisions within the regular members of the SLPP.
