In a bid to steer the All People’s Congress (APC) toward renewed relevance ahead of the 2028 general elections, Western Area Urban District Member of Parliament Hon. Osman Timbo officially declared his candidacy for party flagbearer on May 1, 2025.
Addressing a rally of supporters at Freetown’s Brookfield New Hotel, Timbo framed his campaign as a unifying force, promising to mend internal fractures and reach beyond traditional political divides.
Timbo used his announcement to unveil a bold “National Development Plan,” slated for introduction within his first 100 days if elected president.
Described as a binding, long-term framework to guide successive administrations, the plan will be presented to Parliament for ratification, signalling Timbo’s commitment to institutionalizing policy continuity.
“No more ad hoc decision-making,” he declared. “We need a roadmap that transcends electoral cycles and delivers for all Sierra Leoneans.”Building on this foundation, the MP outlined sector-specific priorities: strengthened law enforcement to curb drug trafficking, accelerated investment in renewable energy, and targeted support for agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and trade.
A comprehensive tax review—aimed at lowering burdens on small businesses and incentivizing industrial growth—also featured prominently. Timbo pledged enhanced healthcare services, underscoring his belief that a healthy populace is essential to national prosperity.
Timbo did not shy away from tough reflections on APC’s past. He revisited the bitter fallout of the 72-hour ultimatum issued to the Electoral Commission by former flagbearer Dr Samura Kamara, which culminated in deadly clashes stretching from party headquarters to outlying districts.
“We cannot move forward unless we acknowledge our missteps and honour those who paid the ultimate price,” he said, pausing to pay tribute to victims of the unrest.Citing more than 15 years of service within APC ranks—ranging from youth leadership roles to his election as MP in 2018—Timbo emphasized both his institutional memory and recent sacrifice in stepping down as national Deputy Secretary-General to ensure a level playing field.
With the party poised to unveil its new national leadership lineup in February 2026, Timbo aims to leverage his grassroots connections and policy vision to emerge as the consensus choice.
With the All Peoples Congress internal contest taking it shape, observers will be watching whether Timbo’s blend of unity messaging and detailed development proposals can eclipse rivals and restore voter confidence ahead of a pivotal presidential vote three years hence.
