Umaru Napoleon Koroma
By Mahmud Tim Kargbo
In Sierra Leone’s often polarised political climate, Umaru Napoleon Koroma has emerged as a rare figure whose leadership record and personal ethos transcend party colours, tribal lines, and regional divides. Serving as Secretary-General of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) from September 2017 to July 2025, his approach to public service has been characterised by openness, humility, and an unwavering commitment to national interest.
From his early years in politics, Koroma demonstrated an ability to engage effectively with diverse constituencies. Whether in youth forums in Koinadugu, policy discussions in Freetown, or community dialogues in Kailahun, he has treated all interlocutors with respect and genuine interest. This openness has earned him credibility even among political opponents, reflecting the FES principle of “leadership without exclusion,” which holds that the leader must be “the servant of all, not just the representative of some” (http://www.library.fes.de/pdf-files/bueros/tanzania/02114.pdf).
A Politically Versatile Bridge-Builder
Throughout his tenure, Koroma ensured that the seven regions of the SLPP remained relatively calm and quiet, a notable achievement in a country where political tension often escalates along regional and tribal lines. His leadership was pivotal in the party’s expansion, culminating in the National Executive Council’s endorsement on 30 June 2025 of the Canada branch as the SLPP’s eighth official region. This strategic growth reflected Koroma’s vision to broaden the party’s national and diaspora engagement.
Koroma’s political versatility is not merely rhetorical; it is rooted in a consistent pattern of building bridges between groups that might otherwise remain isolated. In Kambia, he was seen engaging with opposition APC supporters to resolve community disputes. In Moyamba, he consulted traditional elders to prioritise development initiatives. Across Sierra Leone’s North, South, East, and West, his collaborative style lowered political tensions and mobilised practical solutions.
By placing national interest above partisan advantage, Koroma became a politically versatile figure whose relationships cut across SLPP, APC, and other smaller parties, earning him credibility even among staunch rivals. This reputation inspired the popular saying in both rural towns and urban centres: “If you want to get results, go to Napoleon.” Heard in market stalls in Bo and taxi ranks in Freetown alike, the phrase epitomises his ability to resolve disputes, unblock stalled projects, and deliver outcomes irrespective of political affiliation.
This ethos of bridging divides recalls the spirit of Bai Bureh, Sierra Leone’s legendary leader, who united diverse ethnic groups in resistance and defence of the nation’s sovereignty. Like Bai Bureh, Koroma understands that leadership demands transcending narrow identities to serve the collective good.
Humility as a Leadership Asset
In a society where many in positions of power create distance from those they serve, Koroma’s humility set him apart. Whether visiting remote villages in Pujehun or attending youth forums in Tonkolili, he travelled without ostentation, listening before speaking, and ensuring people felt valued. Such conduct embodies the leadership discipline described as “placing others before self, acknowledging their value and contributions, and refraining from the arrogance that alienates followers” (http://www.clearpointstrategy.com/blog/strategic-leadership-characteristics).
Koroma refused to cultivate a personality cult or surround himself with unnecessary ceremony. These personal interactions, handshakes with street vendors, greetings to schoolchildren, acknowledgements of elders, fortified his grassroots legitimacy and reinforced his image as a leader among the people, not above them.
This sense of humility echoes the example of Amadu Wurie, Sierra Leone’s distinguished educator and administrator, renowned for his modesty and dedication to building institutions that serve all Sierra Leoneans. Koroma’s leadership similarly stresses service over status, embodying values deeply cherished in Sierra Leonean culture.
The Human Connection in Governance
Koroma’s effectiveness also derived from his deeply relational approach. He remembered names, enquired about family members, and followed up on issues raised in previous meetings. Such genuine concern was not political theatre but a core leadership trait that strengthened SLPP’s community roots and sustained trust beyond party loyalists.
His friendships transcended party lines, supported by an open-door policy that recognised Sierra Leone’s democratic stability depends on mutual respect even amidst fierce competition. By fostering dialogue instead of confrontation, especially in politically sensitive regions, Koroma contributed to peace-building and created opportunities for constructive cooperation.
Stewardship Amidst Loss
Over his eight years, the party mourned the passing of prominent members, including former Vice-Presidential Candidate Dr. Kadi Sesay and constituency chairman Alusine Dumbuya. Koroma led the party in moments of solemn remembrance, reinforcing solidarity and collective resolve. These acknowledgments underscored his sensitivity and the role of personal dignity in political leadership.
A Strategic Administrator and Visionary
Koroma took office in 2017, when the SLPP lacked presidential leadership and faced internal challenges. His election as Secretary-General came despite competition from more experienced party figures, a testament to his perseverance and growing recognition. He credited President Julius Maada Bio for entrusting him with the party’s political destiny and supported his tenure, which saw the party evolve into government and expand its base significantly.
Under Koroma’s stewardship, the party’s administrative processes improved markedly. Regional reporting became more structured, membership swelled, and the SLPP’s presence strengthened both domestically and among diaspora communities. This transformation reflected Koroma’s commitment to institutionalising leadership beyond personality-driven politics.
A Farewell of Gratitude and Optimism
At the Bintumani Conference hall on 30–31 July 2025, Koroma addressed delegates with heartfelt thanks. He acknowledged the “dedicated and passionate individuals” alongside whom he had worked, praising their unwavering commitment to the party’s values. To the delegates, he emphasised the “serious power” they wielded: decisions taken would determine whether programmes like Free Education continued, whether the fight against corruption endured, and whether Sierra Leone’s global standing improved.
Koroma reminded the new executive that the “glamour and prestige” of the current conference were absent when he took office in 2017. Now, with the SLPP as the party of government, their foremost duty was to ensure that the party retained political power in 2028. He urged delegates not to betray the trust of those who sent them, but to protect the legacy of President Bio.
He also paid tribute to his family, particularly his wife, Mrs Hawa B Koroma, whose unwavering support allowed him to travel tirelessly across the country’s most challenging terrains while she cared for their children and prayed for his success. He thanked his siblings for their “strong pillars” of support and expressed deep appreciation for the grassroots members, media team, bloggers, and party members whose voices echoed his own call for unity.
Koroma concluded by asking forgiveness for any wrongs during his tenure and offering his own forgiveness to those who wronged him, ending with the party’s iconic mantra:
ONE COUNTRY! ONE PEOPLE! SLPP . THE ONLY WAY OUT, THE ONLY WAY FORWARD, THE ONLY WAY THROUGH. POWER TO THE PEOPLE.
A Model for Service-Oriented Leadership
Umaru Napoleon Koroma’s example challenges the notion that Sierra Leone politics must be fractious and exclusionary. His career demonstrates that a high office can be held with humility, inclusiveness, and dedication to ordinary citizens. By refusing to view Sierra Leoneans through tribal, regional, or partisan lenses, he has strengthened not only the SLPP but the nation’s political fabric.
In blending strategic acumen with heartfelt service, Koroma leaves a legacy reminding us that leadership is most effective when grounded in genuine care for all people.
References
Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung. “Leadership without Exclusion.” http://www.library.fes.de/pdf-files/bueros/tanzania/02114.pdf
ClearPoint Strategy. “Strategic Leadership Characteristics.” http://www.clearpointstrategy.com/blog/strategic-leadership-characteristics
SLPP National Executive Council Resolution, 30 June 2025 (internal party document).