By Hassan Solokoh Bockarie
The SAM ’28 Movement has raised serious concerns over reported irregularities in the ongoing voter registration exercise and the distribution of membership cards within the All Peoples Congress (APC) Party, warning that the situation poses a threat to party unity ahead of the 2028 general elections.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, the movement disclosed that its secretariat has received numerous complaints from APC members across the country regarding alleged unfair practices in the registration process and the issuance of party membership cards. According to the statement, these grievances have, in some areas, escalated into protests and incidents of violence among party supporters.
“The SAM ’28 Movement strongly condemns all forms of violence, discrimination, and disenfranchisement against duly paid-up members of the APC,” the statement read, adding that such actions undermine the democratic values and internal cohesion of the party.
The movement called on the national leadership of the APC to act swiftly and impartially to resolve the issues surrounding the membership card distribution, particularly in areas where tensions have heightened. It emphasised that transparent, inclusive, and well-coordinated processes are critical to restoring trust and preventing further unrest.
The statement noted that the developments are especially troubling given their timing, coming shortly after the resolution of a prolonged matter at the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) concerning the eligibility of the movement’s leader, Chief Samuel Sam-Sumana. The movement further expressed concern over reports of fresh complaints and petitions allegedly submitted to the PPRC, seeking additional clarifications on internal party matters.
Against this backdrop, the SAM ’28 Movement appealed to aggrieved party members to exercise restraint and refrain from acts of violence. Instead, members were urged to seek redress through established and lawful mechanisms within the APC and relevant regulatory institutions.
Presenting itself as a movement committed to responsible and principled leadership, SAM ’28 called on the APC National Executive to intervene decisively to ensure that all internal party processes are “free, fair, and transparent.”
“Unity remains the cornerstone of electoral success,” the statement stressed, reminding party members that every vote counts and internal divisions could weaken the party’s prospects.
“With the 2028 general elections fast approaching, the APC cannot afford to go into the polls as a divided house,” the statement concluded, urging all stakeholders to place cohesion, fairness, and the collective interest of the party above personal or factional considerations.
The SAM ’28 Movement works closely with former Vice President Chief Samuel Sam-Sumana in advancing his vision to become the flagbearer of the APC and ultimately the President of Sierra Leone in the 2028 elections.
