By Mohamed Kamara
In another fiercely contested campaign season for the main opposition, the All Peoples Congress (APC), the Kamara family has once again made its mark. Prominent figures like Mohamed Omudu Kamara, aka Jagaban, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, and former flagbearer Samura Kamara continue to influence the political landscape, though their numerical strength among delegates remains uncertain.
Jagaban first entered national politics in 2018 as a staunch supporter of Samura Kamara’s second bid for the flagbearer position, providing both financial and logistical backing. Selected to lead the APC campaign in the Eastern region, he reportedly aimed for the running mate position but was sidelined in favor of Chericoco. Despite his efforts, Jagaban could not sway the Eastern electorate and returned to the United States shortly after the election results were announced.
By 2024, Jagaban returned with his own ambitions—to become APC’s flagbearer. Known for his financial generosity and bold promises, he awaits the outcome of next year’s convention, even as his former ally, Samura Kamara, continues to pursue a political comeback.
Samura Kamara once enjoyed nationwide popularity but faced criticism after losing for a second time. Critics argue that his refusal to resign as party leader six months after his term, coupled with his reluctance to hand over office keys, fractured support within the APC. His popularity waned, and while his Electoral Justice initiative was replaced with a Unity Agreement, it did not restore him to power. Samura has since signaled his return, but whether he can regain his former influence remains uncertain.
Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara appears more determined than in previous campaigns. In the 2023 APC convention, he failed to secure a top-three position, but this time he is employing a hands-on campaign strategy with on-the-ground visits to court voter support. His popularity, while still growing, could prove pivotal.
The Kamara family has long been a mirror of APC politics, but the 2025 pre-convention campaigns indicate a shifting landscape. Figures like Ibrahim Bangura, Ade Macauley, and Chericoco are emerging as strong contenders, leaving the electorate to decide whether the Kamara legacy will continue to dominate or if new leadership will prevail.
