Sorie Fofana, a veteran journalist and Chairman of the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), has urged the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) to focus on peace and unity amid rising tensions over internal disputes, particularly concerning Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally’s membership.
As disagreements intensify within the ruling party, Fofana has called on SLPP leaders and members to reconcile and avoid actions that might exacerbate divisions ahead of upcoming elections. In an interview with Ecko Media, he expressed concern over the current dynamics, stating, “Whatever unites the party should be promoted, and whatever divides the party should be avoided.”
The controversy revolves around Tarawally’s SLPP membership status, leading to public statements and legal disputes. On September 17, 2026, SLPP Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa reportedly instructed Tarawally to cease presenting himself as a party member, citing information from the Citizens Democratic Party (CDP). Tarawally denies this, insisting he resigned from the CDP in 2018 and returned to the SLPP. His legal team argues that membership issues should follow constitutional and disciplinary processes.
Fofana described Tarawally’s situation as “unfortunate,” highlighting his long-standing ties to the SLPP. He added that the party has a history of managing internal conflicts and emphasised the need for leadership to prioritise unity.
Concerns about factionalism and hostility among party supporters, particularly on social media, are also prevalent. Fofana’s call for dialogue aims to prevent the current membership dispute from escalating further, stressing the importance of clarifying positions and seeking a resolution that serves the SLPP’s broader interests.
He suggested that Songa and Tarawally engage directly to find common ground, a step that could help avert further conflict. Fofana’s plea comes at a time when Sierra Leone faces significant national challenges, such as economic pressures and youth unemployment, and underscores the need for the SLPP to maintain internal stability as the 2028 elections approach.
Ultimately, Fofana’s message is clear: political disagreements should be addressed constructively to foster reconciliation rather than division. As the party prepares for future challenges, he hopes SLPP leaders, including President Dr Julius Maada Bio, will heed his call for unity and focus on collective interests over individual disputes.
