With Sierra Leone gradually turning its attention toward the 2028 general elections, political analysts are cautioning that the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) could be approaching one of the most defining moments in its history. Scholars of political science across various schools of thought have long maintained that while winning power is a significant achievement, sustaining it demands strategic dexterity, internal cohesion and the careful management of party structures.

For the SLPP, the challenge appears more complex. The 2028 elections are widely viewed as a transition contest and concerns are growing within sections of the party that its grassroots base could become disillusioned if urgent internal reforms are not undertaken.

A renewed debate has emerged in political circles regarding the role of party executives once a political party assumes state power. Observers note that in many political systems, party executives and key stakeholders are often integrated into governance structures as a way of consolidating loyalty and maintaining political stability.

The discussion within the SLPP has prompted comparisons with other political parties in Africa, including the All People’s Congress (APC) in Sierra Leone, the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ghana.

Political analysts argue that in several African democracies, Presidents tend to draw significantly from party executives and loyal grassroots actors when making cabinet and strategic appointments. The approach, they contend, serves not only as recognition of party loyalty but also as a mechanism for preserving political capital.

In Ghana, following the National Democratic Congress’ recent electoral victory, reports indicate that before major political appointments were made, the President reportedly circulated a memorandum within party structures seeking suggestions for possible Government appointments. Analysts interpreted the move as a sign of regard for party institutions and recognition of those who worked toward the party’s victory.

Similarly, in South Africa, the ANC has historically integrated party executives and stakeholders into various Government roles. Even during periods when it has faced electoral setbacks, appointments from within party ranks have remained central to its governance strategy.

In Sierra Leone, comparisons are frequently drawn with the second-term administration of former President Ernest Bai Koroma of the APC. Observers point out that during his tenure, several national executives of the APC were appointed to ministerial, ambassadorial or advisory positions.

Among those who served in Government roles were party executives such as the National Secretary General, the National Organizing Secretary and the National Publicity Secretary, as well as regional chairpersons and district leaders. That integration of party structures into governance, analysts say, strengthened internal cohesion within the APC during its time in office.

In contrast, critics within the SLPP argue that a significant number of the party’s current national executives have not been appointed to government positions during President Julius Maada Bio’s second term.

According to party listings, while some positions such as National Organizing Secretary, National Treasurer, National Financial Secretary and Deputy National Organizing Secretary have received appointments, others including the National Chairman, Deputy National Chairman, National Secretary General, Deputy Secretary General, National Public Relations Officer, National Women’s Leader, National Imam and several Regional Chairpersons are reportedly not serving in Government roles.

This development has fueled internal conversations about political inclusion and reward systems within the ruling party.

Political observers note that one of the difficulties parties face while in power is navigating between state governance and party expectations. Analysts warn that sycophancy, misinformation and selective briefings can sometimes distort leadership perceptions, making it harder to assess grassroots realities.

Some party stakeholders argue that empowering executives and core supporters through strategic appointments can help sustain morale and political momentum. Others caution that appointments must be based on competence, national interest and constitutional provisions rather than solely on party hierarchy.

Within sections of the SLPP, there are also calls for a review of economic distribution, contracts and public appointments to ensure broader inclusivity across regions and party structures. Critics allege that certain sensitive parastatal, ministerial and ambassadorial roles have been allocated outside the immediate party executive structure, a move they believe could have long-term political implications.

As the 2028 elections approach, analysts say the SLPP faces what may be its most significant internal and external political test since returning to power. Transition elections are often unpredictable, especially when an incumbent president is constitutionally limited.

Political strategists note that electoral battles are largely fought at the grassroots level, where party executives and regional structures mobilize support, resources and messaging. If internal cohesion weakens, they warn, it could affect campaign effectiveness.

Some party members have reportedly urged the current executive leadership to confront the political realities early and strengthen unity ahead of the contest. They argue that electoral victories are sustained not only by state incumbency but by a motivated and adequately recognized party base willing to make sacrifices for the party’s success.

While the SLPP remains the ruling party and continues to exercise state authority, the debate surrounding executive inclusion, political loyalty and grassroots engagement has intensified. Comparisons with the APC, ANC and NDC have added further dimension to the conversation.

Whether the SLPP adjusts its internal strategy ahead of 2028 may prove decisive. Political history in Sierra Leone demonstrates that sustaining power requires more than electoral victory; it demands strategic balance, institutional respect and consistent engagement with those who carry the party’s banner at every level.

With the political landscape gradually shifting toward 2028, the ruling party’s ability to manage its internal dynamics may ultimately determine whether it consolidates its hold on power or confronts an unprecedented challenge in the next electoral cycle.