Aruna Turay, AYV News, January 29, 2026
Former National Chairman and now senior stalwart of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), John OponjoBenjamin (JOB), has issued a stern warning to individuals eyeing the party’s flagbearer position ahead of the 2028 general elections, declaring that the SLPP “is not for sale.”
JOB made the statement in an interview with AYV’s Wake Up Sierra Leone, amid growing internal manoeuvring and early alignments within the ruling party, as potential aspirants begin subtle campaigns to position themselves for the post-Bio era.
According to him, the SLPP’s leadership and delegates must not be swayed by money, inducements, or personal interests, but should instead be guided by loyalty to party values, proven service, integrity, and a clear vision for national development.
“The SLPP is a party built on ideology, sacrifice, and discipline. It is not a commodity to be bought by the highest bidder,” JOB cautioned, stressing that any attempt to commercialise the party’s internal democratic processes would undermine its credibility and unity.
Political observers say JOB’s comments are a clear signal that the ruling party’s elders are watching developments closely and are prepared to resist actions that could divide the party ahead of a highly competitive 2028 election.
The warning comes at a time when speculation is mounting over who will succeed President Julius Maada Bio as SLPP flagbearer, with several names being quietly mentioned within party circles including JOB himself.
He urged party members to remain focused on governance, consolidation of reforms, and delivering on promises made to the people, rather than engaging in premature succession battles.
