By Isatu Sankoh
As the All People’s Congress (APC) continues internal reflections about its future leadership and political direction, one name increasingly resonating within party circles and among political observers is that of Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, popularly known as “Chericoco.”
A seasoned lawyer, parliamentarian, and former Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Chericoco is widely regarded as one of the influential figures within the APC whose experience and national exposure position him as a strong contender in discussions surrounding the party’s future flagbearer.
On Friday, March 6, 2026, the APC stalwart joined journalists and guests from various walks of life at the Muslim Journalists Annual Iftar 2026, held at the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) compound in Freetown. The gathering brought together members of the media fraternity, religious leaders, and community stakeholders in a spirit of reflection, unity, and fellowship during the holy month of Ramadan.
Chericoco’s presence at the event underscored his continued engagement with the media and his appreciation for initiatives that promote dialogue and religious harmony. Participants at the Iftar commended the tradition of bringing journalists and public figures together, noting that such gatherings strengthen professional relationships while reinforcing the importance of responsible communication in national development.
Observers noted that Chericoco used the opportunity to interact with members of the media and reflect on the importance of unity, peaceful coexistence, and constructive engagement among Sierra Leoneans.
Beyond such public engagements, Chericoco’s political journey has been defined by years of public service and legislative leadership. Trained as a lawyer, he built a reputation for his understanding of constitutional law and governance before entering active politics. His legal background has often shaped his approach to political dialogue, with emphasis on institutional respect, rule of law, and democratic processes.
Chericoco rose to national prominence during his tenure as a Member of Parliament representing the Brookfields constituency in Freetown, an area known for its politically active electorate. In Parliament, he became widely recognized for his articulate contributions to debates and his ability to engage constructively on issues of national importance.
His leadership credentials were further strengthened when he served as Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Sierra Leone between 2012 and 2017, becoming one of the youngest politicians to occupy the influential position. During his tenure, he presided over complex parliamentary sessions, ensuring that debates were conducted in accordance with legislative procedures while maintaining order in the chamber.
Many political observers believe that his time as Deputy Speaker helped reinforce Parliament’s role as a central pillar of democratic governance in Sierra Leone.
Within the parliamentary system, Chericoco also played key roles in important committees, including serving as Chairman of the Parliamentary Legislative Committee, where he was responsible for reviewing legislative proposals and ensuring compliance with established parliamentary procedures. He also chaired the Parliamentary Committee on Mines and Mineral Resources, a strategic oversight role in a sector that remains central to Sierra Leone’s economy.
Following the 2018 general elections, Chericoco further consolidated his position in national politics when he served as Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, representing the APC in legislative debates and engaging government on issues of governance, economic policy, and national accountability.
That same year, his political stature expanded further when he was selected as the running mate to Dr. Samura Kamara, the APC’s presidential candidate during the 2018 presidential elections. The campaign placed Chericoco firmly on the national stage, giving voters across the country the opportunity to become familiar with his leadership style and political philosophy.
Although the election produced a different outcome, the experience significantly broadened his national visibility and strengthened his grassroots connections across different regions of the country.
Within the APC today, many party supporters view Chericoco as a leader capable of bridging generational and regional divides. In a political party with a long and complex history, consensus-building and unity are widely regarded as essential qualities for future leadership.
Supporters frequently describe him as a moderate political voice who promotes dialogue rather than confrontation. In an era where political discourse can sometimes become sharply polarized, his calm demeanor and diplomatic engagement have earned him respect not only within his party but also across political lines.
Political analysts also point out that Chericoco’s long experience in Parliament has given him deep insight into the challenges of governance, legislative reform, and national policy development. This institutional knowledge, they argue, places him among the political figures with the practical experience required to navigate complex national leadership responsibilities.
His political profile has also been associated with advocacy for democratic governance, youth development, education, women’s empowerment, and peacebuilding initiatives aimed at strengthening national cohesion.
In recognition of his contributions to public service and national dialogue, Chericoco received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025, acknowledging his efforts in promoting peacebuilding, democratic governance, and advocacy for women and children’s rights in Sierra Leone.
As the APC continues to assess its leadership options ahead of future elections, many within the party believe that figures with experience, national credibility, and grassroots connections will play a crucial role in shaping its next chapter.
For many supporters, Chericoco embodies a combination of legislative experience, political maturity, and national exposure that could help reposition the APC as a formidable political force in Sierra Leone.
Whether through his parliamentary leadership, his role in national campaigns, or his engagement with citizens and institutions across the country, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah has already established himself as a prominent voice within Sierra Leone’s political landscape.
As internal conversations within the APC intensify in the coming years, his name is likely to remain central in discussions about the party’s future leadership and strategic direction.
