By Amin Kef-Ranger

As the political landscape in Sierra Leone begins to shape up ahead of the 2028 General Elections, prominent journalist and seasoned politician Hon. Alhaji Ibrahim Ben Kargbo (IB Kargbo) has made a thought-provoking assessment of potential presidential aspirants from both the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC).

Speaking in an exclusive political commentary, IB Kargbo emphasized that political experience, academic qualification and unwavering loyalty to both party and nation should be key determinants when evaluating who is fit to ascend to the highest office in the land.

In his evaluation, Hon. I.B Kargbo spotlighted three credible presidential materials from each of the two main political parties, with special focus placed on the current Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, describing his candidacy as one that could potentially defy Sierra Leone’s long-standing political norm where no Vice President has ever succeeded a sitting President.

“Since the creation of the Executive Presidency in Sierra Leone, no Vice President has ever succeeded a sitting President. This makes Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s case uniquely significant,” Hon. I.B Kargbo noted.

According to the veteran politician, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh meets all the academic benchmarks expected of a modern-day leader. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Fourah Bay College (University of Sierra Leone), a Master’s degree from the University of Ibadan in Nigeria and a Doctorate (PhD) from the University of Bordeaux in France earned through rigorous academic research, not honorary recognition.

“In a region where many political leaders rely on honorary doctorates, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh stands out for having earned his credentials through diligence and scholarly excellence,” I.B Kargbo emphasized.

Beyond his academic accolades, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s career is anchored in extensive international experience, particularly with the United Nations. He has served as a Senior Political Officer in the UN mission in Mali and was the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel. His early career included work as an electoral officer in Kosovo during one of the most sensitive periods in the region’s post-conflict history.

“His UN background in governance and security matters has served the nation well, especially during tense national moments. He came to the position of Vice President fully prepared and has demonstrated competence in managing delicate national assignments,” said I.B Kargbo.

Highlighting a concrete example of his leadership, the veteran politician recalled the August 10 crisis, when Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh was Acting President. “He skillfully mobilized the security forces to restore peace and stability, evidence of his ability to lead under pressure,” I.B Kargbo noted.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh also played a pivotal role as head of the MCC Compact Development Unit. Under his leadership, Sierra Leone qualified for a grant worth nearly $400 million from the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation. While implementation of the grant has faced delays, I.B Kargbo insists the success in securing the compact was a major policy win, directly attributable to Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s leadership and diplomatic skills.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, a native of Port Loko District, is widely admired in his home region as a humble and accessible leader. His deep roots in both the Northwest and Kono, where he spent his formative years, have enhanced his cross-regional appeal. Fluent in multiple languages including English, French, Temne and his native Fullah, he is regarded as a true pan-national figure.

“His accessibility and humility have earned him the loyalty of ordinary citizens,” Hon. I.B Kargbo noted, describing him as “the poor man’s friend.”

As the 2028 elections approach, questions loom about the SLPP’s succession plan. On this, Hon.I.B Kargbo asserts that Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s loyalty to the SLPP and to President Julius Maada Bio cannot be questioned. He has served diligently, always putting the party’s interest and national unity above personal ambition.

“Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has never allowed personal ego to interfere with state duties. He respects the President, works hard and remains committed to the party’s ideals. That makes him a formidable candidate for the future,” Hon I.B Kargbo emphasized.

A senior SLPP stalwart, when interviewed, stated: “The reason I would support Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh is simple; he has the potential to unify Sierra Leone and keep the SLPP strong and cohesive.”

Summing up his analysis, Hon. IB Kargbo stated, “In modern governance, experience is invaluable. Leaders must be tested, trained and exposed to global best practices. Few in Sierra Leone’s current political arena can match Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh in both experience and academic credentials.”

With the right political backing and party consensus, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh may indeed break the long-standing myth of vice presidential succession and become a compelling contender for Sierra Leone’s highest office. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ib-kargbo-highlights-vp-juldeh-jalloh-as-strong-presidential-material/