By Foday Moriba Conteh
As Sierra Leone approaches the 2028 elections, one name stands out as a pillar of leadership and grassroots mobilization within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP)—Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally. His contributions over the years have been instrumental in shaping the party’s victories and solidifying its presence across the country.
Starting as a Young Generation Member, Alhaji Musa Tarawally worked alongside notable figures like the late SB Marah, Teacher Laggao, and Hinga Norman to bring the late President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah to power in 1996. As a District Young Generation Leader, he was among those who went into exile with President Kabbah and played a key role in restoring the SLPP government in 2008.
In 2002, as a member of the SLPP Strategic Planning Committee, Tarawally’s strategic efforts contributed to securing over 70% of the vote for the SLPP. His leadership extended to his role as Moyamba District Chairman and Member of Parliament, where he worked tirelessly to secure political appointments for SLPP members and improve the conditions for MPs. His bold advocacy led to increased salaries and the provision of diplomatic passports for parliamentarians.
Under his chairmanship, the SLPP Working Group was established to evaluate the chances of the late Vice President Solomon Berewa in the 2007 presidential elections. Despite strong opposition, Alhaji Musa Tarawally was unafraid to confront harsh realities, warning that Berewa’s candidacy might not be successful. His frankness, although met with resistance, marked him as a leader with the foresight and courage to speak the truth.
Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s commitment to the SLPP was further demonstrated in 2005 when he met with the now-President, Retired Brigadier Julius Maada Bio, predicting his potential as a winning candidate. He mobilized key party figures, chiefs and district executives to support Bio’s candidacy.
Despite facing political victimization, both within the SLPP and later under the APC, Musa Tarawally’s dedication to the party never wavered. As Minister in the APC Government, he covertly protected SLPP interests, defending chiefs and party members, securing legal support for former Civil Defense Forces fighters, and driving development initiatives across southeastern districts.
Even after his removal as District Chairman and MP, his resilience saw him form a coalition under the CDP banner, ultimately playing a crucial role in the 2018 runoff, helping to bring the SLPP back to power.
In the 2023 elections, his grassroots engagement once again proved vital to the SLPP’s success. Hon Alhaji Musa Tarawally, described as a seasoned, visionary leader with unmatched grassroots influence, remains a driving force in Sierra Leonean politics.
As the SLPP looks toward the 2028 elections, many within the party believe that the leadership of Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally could be the key to securing another victory. His experience, resilience and unwavering commitment to the party’s ideals make him a legendary figure whose contributions continue to shape the future of the SLPP.
For the SLPP, 2028 could be the year where a tested and proven leader like Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally once again plays a pivotal role in guiding the party toward success. His legendary status and visionary grassroots leadership are what the SLPP needs to navigate the challenges ahead.
