APC Blunders Big Time!
The All People’s Congress (APC), Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, is facing renewed internal tensions following the controversial reinstatement of former Vice President Chief Alhaji Samuel Sam-Sumana into the party’s ranks. What was initially seen by some as a step toward reconciliation is now being widely criticized by sections of the party’s supporters and stakeholders — many of whom believe the decision could jeopardize the APC’s unity and its chances of regaining power in the upcoming elections.
Several loyalists have expressed dismay over the decision, describing it as a “major political blunder” that could haunt the party if not swiftly addressed.
Their concern lies not only in Sam-Sumana’s complicated history with the APC but also in the potential legal and political consequences of his presence within the party. Sam-Sumana was expelled from the APC in 2015 under the leadership of former President Ernest Bai Koroma, an action which subsequently led to his removal as Vice President — a move that triggered national and international controversy. Years later, the ECOWAS Court of Justice ruled in favor of Sam-Sumana, declaring his dismissal unlawful and ordering compensation. His reinstatement, therefore, is viewed by many as a risky political gamble. Critics argue that the party has not fully resolved the legal and constitutional implications surrounding his expulsion and return. They fear that unresolved grievances could prompt Sam-Sumana to challenge the party in court once again — especially if he feels marginalized or denied influence within the APC’s new political structure.
“There was no clear roadmap on how he should have been reinstated, no reconciliation process, and no consultation with the grassroots,” said one senior APC member, speaking on condition of anonymity. “This is not just about bringing someone back — it’s about healing wounds. We rushed the process.”
Some stakeholders worry that if Sam-Sumana does not get the level of recognition or leadership position he expects within the APC, he could become a destabilizing force. With legal precedent on his side, many fear that a lawsuit or internal sabotage could further fragment an already fragile political coalition. Others, however, have defended the decision, insisting that the party must evolve and build alliances to defeat the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). They view Sam-Sumana as a political heavyweight in the Eastern Province, particularly in Kono District — a strategic region where the APC has struggled in recent years. Nevertheless, tensions continue to simmer. As the APC prepares for a crucial electoral season, many are calling on the party’s leadership to tread carefully. There are increasing demands for an inclusive dialogue, transparency in decision-making, and clarity on the roles of all returning or reinstated members.
If these issues remain unaddressed, party insiders warn, the APC risks walking into yet another election cycle divided — a mistake they cannot afford at a time when public dissatisfaction with the ruling party is growing. The coming months will be critical. For the APC to emerge as a viable and united alternative, it must reconcile its past with its present — and ensure that history does not repeat itself.
