EPISODE 4: Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, Book Smart, But Ready to Lead?
By Dr. Doma
Let’s talk about another flagbearer hopeful, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura.
There’s no doubt that this brother is intelligent, well-spoken and highly accomplished in the academic world.
He holds a PhD, teaches Peace and Conflict Studies at Fourah Bay College and is currently doing research at Oxford University.
He has worked on peacebuilding, gender, youth, and post-conflict policies not only in Sierra Leone but across Africa.
His name appears in international publications and he’s advised ECOWAS and monitored EU-funded projects across 30 countries.
Impressive, right?
But here’s the real question:
Can all of this translate into real leadership on the ground, regionally and internationally? Will he command the gravitas and clout among his peers?
Because governance isn’t just about writing papers and giving lectures.
It’s about taking action.
It’s about fixing broken schools, putting young people back to work, calming tribal tensions, and giving hope to ordinary Sierra Leoneans and translating policy into action.
So let’s be honest:
- With all his knowledge, why hasn’t Dr. Bangura helped improve our failing education system?
- With his deep understanding of youths and peace, where was his voice during the critical political tensions in our country?
I will ask: other than research papers, what are the tangible actions that he can point to, to convince us that he understands the socio-economic, political, and development challenges like improving our failing education system, improving access to healthcare, and confronting our epidemic of drugs.
Does he have the political experience to lead Sierra Leone in the emerging new world order?
- And most importantly, does he have the political experience and boldness to stand up to the SLPP and win?
Dear delegates, this isn’t a personal attack.
It’s a reality check.
Politics is not theory.
You don’t run a country from a research desk.
You run it with strategy, courage, and a strong connection to the people.
Dr. Bangura is a good man, no question.
But being “new” or “different” doesn’t always mean being “ready.” (You don’t want to make the same mistake again of selecting another nominee who is vying for the award of least prepared candidate.)
As the APC searches for the right leader, let’s not mistake classroom knowledge for political wisdom.
Let’s not assume that academic brilliance means national leadership.
Ask yourself:
- Can he inspire the base?
- Can he rally the grassroots?
- Can he outsmart the SLPP on the campaign trail?
- Is he battle-tested for this moment?
Now, beyond the academic brilliance, there are serious political concerns surrounding Dr. Bangura’s candidacy.
He is rumored to be backed by disgruntled stakeholders within the APC, many of whom are believed to be aligned to a movement in the party.
Though Dr. Bangura has distanced himself from these claims, the perception persists.
Some party insiders strongly believe that if Dr. Bangura doesn’t win the flagbearer race, this faction could pull back their support in the general elections risking another five years in opposition for the APC.
Even more troubling, an APC figure was recently caught printing unauthorized party ID cards.
This incident has sparked questions about loyalty and strategy within the party.
Is this individual part of a broader agenda?
Is there any link to our professor’s campaign?
These are questions party members are now asking and they deserve clear answers.
As someone following our politics in Sierra Leone and observing the APC race closely, I believe these are not minor issues.
They speak to the kind of leadership dynamics that could define APC’s future.
Sierra Leone is in crisis.
We can’t afford to gamble on someone still learning how politics works in real life.
Let’s respect the professor.
But I implore APC delegates to choose a leader who is not just smart, but proven.
Stay tuned for Episode 5.
The journey continues.
