By Mamajah Jalloh
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Hon. Osman Timbo, outgoing Deputy National Secretary General of the All People’s Congress (APC), on Thursday, May 1st, officially declared his intention to contest for the party’s Flagbearer position ahead of the upcoming National Delegates Conference.
Speaking at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown, Timbo said his decision marks the beginning of a new movement aimed at injecting fresh energy, integrity, and hope into the APC and the nation. He said his leadership vision is rooted in empowering young people and restoring public trust through honesty, humility, and transparent governance.
Timbo said it was no coincidence that he chose to make his declaration on Labour Day, a day that celebrates workers and the everyday struggles of Sierra Leoneans — from market women and drivers to teachers, sex workers, and jobless youth. “We see your struggles, we feel your pain, and we hear your cries,” he said. “Today, we choose to celebrate your contributions and promise to fight for your rights and freedoms.”
Highlighting the historical foundations of the APC as a party born out of labour movements, Timbo paid tribute to the founding members and called for unity within the party. “Disunity and dishonesty are eating deep into our party,” he said, urging leaders to put aside personal egos and grudges for the greater good.
Addressing the outcome of the 2023 presidential elections, Timbo maintained that the APC did not lose but had the victory “stolen.” He added that although the party chose not to pursue the matter in court, the fight for electoral justice remains relevant. “Justice can come through the courts, mob action, or God — and I believe in Allah,” he declared.
Timbo invited young people across Sierra Leone to join his vision of a youth-led political revolution — one that prioritizes people over politics and delivers tangible results. “No more sitting back while the powerful grow fatter and the poor grow weaker,” he said. “This is the time to act, to lead, and to deliver.”
He promised a governance model centered on economic stability, private sector development, decentralization, educational reform, and the fight against drug abuse. Timbo further pledged to develop a national plan with short-, medium-, and long-term goals, and to champion social cohesion, tribal inclusivity, and equitable development.
“I don’t have all the answers,” he admitted. “But what I offer without compromise is honesty, fear of Allah, and integrity. Righteousness must begin with leadership that is sincere, accountable, and people-centered.”
Hon. Osman Timbo concluded by reaffirming his belief that under his leadership, the APC will emerge stronger and more united to win future elections and rebuild Sierra Leone into a nation driven by youth, innovation, and inclusivity.
