Freetown, 20th October 2025 – The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) ushered in a new chapter of its political journey on Saturday as Sir Jimmy Batilo Songa officially assumed office as National Chairman, succeeding long-serving strategist Dr. Prince Alex Harding.
The handover ceremony, held at the SLPP National Headquarters on 15 Wallace Johnson Street, drew hundreds of party loyalists, dignitaries, and supporters who gathered to witness what many hailed as a “new dawn” for the ruling party.
In a moment steeped in symbolism and emotion, Dr. Harding—credited with steering the SLPP through years of reform and electoral success—formally passed the mantle to Sir Jimmy, a respected political scientist known for his intellect, courage, and people-centered leadership.
The newly elected executive, led by Sir Jimmy, is composed of vibrant and visionary party members, described by insiders as a dynamic team poised to energize the SLPP ahead of the 2028 transitional elections.
In his acceptance speech, Sir Jimmy paid tribute to the Leader of the Party and President of the Republic, H.E. Dr. Julius Maada Bio, for entrusting the new team with the responsibility of guiding the SLPP forward. He also extended heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Harding and the outgoing executive for their years of dedicated service.
“I am deeply grateful to the grassroots members of our party,” Sir Jimmy said. “Their unwavering support throughout my campaign has been the backbone of this transition. My leadership will remain people-focused, united, and victory-driven.”
He pledged to consolidate the gains made under previous administrations and sustain the SLPP’s governance and development agenda.
In a show of solidarity, Rt. Hon. Mohamed Sidi Tunis, former Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, donated Le 2,000,000, while Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella contributed Le 1,000,000 to support the new administration’s work. The contributions were seen as a powerful endorsement of the new leadership and a reaffirmation of the party’s unity.
The ceremony concluded in a jubilant atmosphere, with members celebrating the seamless transition as a symbol of continuity and progress. Many described Sir Jimmy’s emergence as a pivotal moment for the SLPP—one that signals renewed strength, unity, and readiness for the challenges ahead.
