Before the handing over courtesies, Chief Karpen stated that it was an honour for him to be in time to witness an occasion which was top in media discussion forum and also saw confrontation among party members and supporters.
He said in life when one starts a journey, all is not rosy, the road can be rough, but with patience and commitment the light will be seen at the end of the tunnel.
Chief Karpen welcomed Dr Kandeh Yumkella to the SLPP family, noting that it is a party of unity, which has no boundaries in tribe or religion, referencing the party’s motto of “ONE COUNTRY, ONE PEOPLE”.
Receiving his distinguished status registration card, Dr Kandeh Yumkella breathed a sigh of relief, noting that “it is better late than never”.
He said he was happy to be part of history and, as he put it, a million mile journey has been completed, and he is now energized with more zeal to continue what he described as the journey to freedom, 2018.
Dr Yumkella informed party executives that it is on record that he is also a member of the SLPP North America Chapter, that has also signed a memorandum of understanding with the party to mobilise resources that will move the party forward.
He disclosed that the challenge ahead is huge, therefore the time is now to start work to remedy all intra party issues, noting that bygones should be bygones and bury the hatchet in order to make the party a formidable opposition and ready for victory, come 2018.
Dr Yumkella assured the gathering that he knows and believes no other party than the SLPP, and in this regard he will ensure that the party regain its status, noting that being in opposition does not mean one should lose hope, but it is a time one should work harder and put the party in its rightful place in society.
Speaking to party supporters around the party premises, almost all of them welcomed Dr Yumkella to the family and hope that his aspirations and ambition will benefit and take the party and nation to higher heights.
Because of the standoff that took place in recent times between some party members including supporters and the KKY movement, they explained that “we are humans and not demons as perceived by many, and Dr Yumkella is our brother. It was bad minded people who are not part of the family who tried to create chaos during his visit, but that is now past and gone,” they concluded.
Dr Yumkella also made a presentation of a 42 inches plasma television and DSTV subscription to the party, including a football for the youths for recreational time.