By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah, popularly known as Chericoco, is steadily consolidating his position as one of the most influential and widely respected figures within the All People’s Congress (APC), as political conversations intensify ahead of Sierra Leone’s 2028 general elections. A seasoned lawyer, experienced parliamentarian, and long-time party stalwart, Chericoco is increasingly being described by supporters and political observers as a unifying leader capable of steering the APC into a new era of national relevance and electoral success.
Born on April 29, 1972, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah has spent over two decades in public service, building a reputation grounded in loyalty, consistency, and people-centred leadership. Currently serving as Leader of the Opposition, he has previously held the position of Deputy Speaker of Parliament and remains one of the longest-serving Members of Parliament in the country. His political journey, marked by resilience and dedication, has placed him at the heart of Sierra Leone’s democratic evolution.
A powerful blend of sport, culture, and politics unfolded in Makeni during the just-concluded EBK Trophy, when an unexpected but deeply symbolic moment captured national attention. At the Wusum Mini Stadium, competitive football briefly gave way to tradition as Hon. Chericoco was ceremonially crowned Pa Alimamy of Football during the second half of play.
Traditional authorities and community representatives entered the pitch to perform the crowning ceremony, presenting him with a traditional cloth amid thunderous applause from the crowd. The moment transformed the stadium atmosphere into a celebration of culture, unity, and appreciation for a leader many described as “the people’s pillar.”
The title Pa Alimamy is traditionally reserved for individuals known for integrity, generosity, and strong leadership. For many in attendance, the honour symbolised Chericoco’s longstanding contributions to youth empowerment, sports development, and community cohesion across the Northern Region and beyond.
Beyond ceremonial recognition, Chericoco’s impact continues to be felt most strongly at the grassroots level. On Friday, December 26, 2025, he once again hosted more than 300 less-privileged children at the Makeni City Council Auditorium as part of his annual Feed the Children Programme.
The Boxing Day initiative, which has become a cherished tradition in Makeni, brought together children from different communities for a special meal and moments of joy. The programme began during the tenure of former Mayor Sunkarie Kabba-Kamara and has been sustained for over a decade through Chericoco’s personal commitment.
Makeni Mayor Abubakarr Lamtales Kamara, addressing the gathering, praised the consistency of the initiative, describing it as a lifeline for many families during challenging economic times. “When many parents struggle to provide decent meals for their children, this programme offers relief, dignity, and happiness,” the Mayor said.
In a gesture that deeply moved onlookers, Chericoco personally served food to the children, sharing smiles and words of encouragement. He urged them to prioritise education, stay away from drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes, and to report any negative influences to parents or teachers. He cited former President Ernest Bai Koroma as an example of discipline, perseverance, and national service.
One of the beneficiaries, Aminata Conteh, expressed gratitude on behalf of the children, saying the event made them feel loved and remembered. “We are very happy today. Hon. Chericoco made sure we are well fed and smiling,” she said.
The EBK Trophy festivities also provided a vivid display of Chericoco’s growing grassroots support. On Christmas Day, multiple support groups turned out in large numbers for the EBK Trophy Health Walk and Grand Final at the Wusum Hotel and Wusum Stadium.
Dressed in party colours and branded outfits, groups such as the Coco Queens, Coco Ladies, Chericoco Medical Team, and Coco Babes marched, danced, and sang songs celebrating their leader. Their peaceful engagement with the public added vibrancy to the event while reinforcing messages of unity, continuity, and hope.
Observers noted that the turnout reflected not only political strength but also genuine appreciation for Chericoco’s role in sustaining the legacy of former President Ernest Bai Koroma and supporting development initiatives in Makeni. Videos from the event showed the Coco Ladies, led by CEO Mam-K, dancing joyfully as the tournament concluded.
Adding further significance to the celebrations, the Coco Queens marked their one-year anniversary during the 16th edition of the EBK Trophy. The dynamic women’s support group used the occasion to celebrate their milestone and reaffirm their commitment to Chericoco’s leadership journey.
From coordinating logistics to providing food and refreshments, the Coco Queens played an active role throughout the festivities. Members described the anniversary as a moment to re-energise their movement and strengthen networks inspired by Chericoco’s humility, consistency, and loyalty to the APC’s core values.
“This is not just about celebrating one year,” one member noted. “It is about standing firmly behind a leader we believe can unite the party and the nation.”
Within APC circles, Chericoco is increasingly viewed as one of the party’s most marketable and unifying figures. He has served as a two-time running mate in the 2018 and 2023 elections and has over 15 years of parliamentary experience. Supporters point to his advocacy for democracy, women’s and children’s rights, youth empowerment, and education as defining elements of his public service.
His ability to connect across regional, ethnic, and religious lines is often cited as one of his greatest strengths. Additionally, his family ties to the Eastern Region through his wife from Kenema District are seen by political analysts as a strategic advantage in building nationwide appeal ahead of 2028.
As the APC reflects on its future direction, many youths, stalwarts, and community leaders are openly expressing confidence in Chericoco’s leadership. For them, his blend of experience, compassion, and vision represents the leadership style needed to rejuvenate the party and inspire a new generation.
From cultural honours on the football field to feeding children on Boxing Day and mobilising support groups during national festivities, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Bah continues to reinforce his image as a leader grounded in service and connection with the people.
As Sierra Leone gradually approaches another critical electoral cycle, the APC faces key decisions about unity, leadership, and vision. In the eyes of his supporters, Chericoco stands at the centre of that conversation—seen not just as a politician, but as a bridge between the party’s legacy and its aspirations for national renewal.
