Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, widely known as Chericoco, has emerged as a leading contender for the All People’s Congress (APC) presidential flagbearer nomination. The race is in preparation for the 2028 general elections, with Chericoco positioned prominently among potential candidates vying for the party's top spot. His early emergence as a frontrunner shows the significance of the upcoming electoral cycle for the party. Party delegates will ultimately decide who carries the APC banner into the 2028 elections, making the internal contest a key step. His candidacy signals an early focus on leadership for the upcoming electoral cycle, as the APC looks to consolidate its strategy for the next presidential contest.
A Seasoned Political Figure
Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, known as Chericoco, is a veteran lawyer, Parliamentarian, and a senior stalwart within the All People’s Congress (APC) party. He is a graduate of Fourah Bay College and the Sierra Leone Law School, providing a strong foundation for his extensive legal and political career. Chericoco previously served as the Member of Parliament for Constituency 126 in the Western Urban District, representing a significant urban constituency. Throughout his parliamentary tenure, he occupied several key leadership positions, demonstrating his influence and progression within the legislative body. These roles included Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Majority Leader, and Leader of the Opposition, showcasing his ability to navigate and lead within different parliamentary capacities. His experience in these high-profile roles has provided him with an in-depth understanding of national governance and legislative processes. Chericoco has also received recognition for his contributions to democratic governance, peacebuilding initiatives, and human rights advocacy, noting his broader commitment to national development and stability.
Key Electoral Experience
Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, also known as Chericoco, served as the All People’s Congress (APC) vice-presidential running mate alongside Dr. Samura Kamara in both the 2018 presidential elections and the 2023 presidential elections. These roles provided him with significant electoral exposure at the national level, campaigning across various regions of Sierra Leone. His participation in two consecutive presidential campaigns shows his prominence within the party's hierarchy and his experience in high-stakes political contests, giving him direct insight into national political dynamics. In October 2024, Chericoco officially relinquished his duties as the APC Deputy Leader, a strategic move that observers note could further position him for a primary challenge as he focuses on the presidential flagbearer contest. This transition marks a significant moment in his political trajectory within the party structure, allowing him to dedicate his efforts towards securing the top nomination.
Supporters' Vision and Confidence
Supporters describe Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, known as Chericoco, as a leader capable of uniting the All People’s Congress (APC) and strengthening its electoral prospects. They believe Chericoco represents a new chapter for the party, emphasizing dialogue, constitutional governance, youth empowerment, accountability, and national unity as core tenets of his vision. Chericoco’s political reputation extends across various districts and among Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora, according to his supporters, indicating broad appeal. This widespread recognition is seen as a key asset for the party’s future electoral success.
Supporters express confidence that he is the candidate best positioned to secure the APC’s presidential flagbearer nomination, citing his extensive experience and leadership qualities. They believe he would lead a united campaign capable of returning the APC to State House in the 2028 general elections. "For many APC supporters, however, Chericoco has already emerged as a leading figure in the conversation about the party’s future," supporters stated, reflecting a strong sentiment within the party base. They added that "his experience, leadership record and vision for national development make him a strong contender for the flagbearer position and express optimism that he can guide the APC into a competitive 2028 presidential campaign," articulating a clear pathway to victory.