The race for the All People’s Congress (APC) flagbearer has taken a controversial turn as Mohamed Omodu Kamara, popularly known as Jagaban monitising faces mounting criticism over his campaign tactics.
Jagaban, a Sierra Leonean entrepreneur and philanthropist, has been accused by observers and party insiders of lavishing money on delegates in a bid to secure their votes. Critics argue that such practices undermine the democratic process within the party, shifting the focus from competency and vision to financial influence.
Political analysts warn that this approach risks depriving more qualified aspirants of a fair chance in the flagbearer contest. “Leadership should be about ideas, integrity, and the ability to inspire confidence in the people,” one commentator noted, “but when money becomes the deciding factor, the party risks losing its best minds.”
Supporters of Jagaban, however, defend his generosity, framing it as philanthropy and a demonstration of his ability to mobilize resources. They argue that his financial strength could be an asset in a national campaign. Yet, the growing chorus of disapproval highlights a broader concern about the role of money in Sierra Leone’s political culture.
As the APC prepares for its decisive vote, the controversy surrounding Jagaban Monitise has sparked debate about the values that should guide the party’s choice of flagbearer. Many within the party and civil society insist that the focus must return to competence, vision, and service to the people rather than financial inducements.
The outcome of the flagbearer race will not only determine the APC’s candidate for the presidency but also signal whether Sierra Leone’s political landscape is ready to prioritize merit over money.