Somerset, New Jersey, USA – Saturday, August 23, 2025 – The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) marked a memorable gathering in the United States as its Deputy National Chairman, Robert Kondema Kargbo, addressed the annual North America New Jersey Chapter Cookout. The event, attended by a large turnout of party members, supporters, and distinguished guests from across the diaspora, highlighted the enduring bond between Sierra Leoneans abroad and their homeland, while reaffirming a shared commitment to the party’s vision of “One Country, One People.”
In his keynote address, Mr. Kargbo praised the transformative leadership of His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone and current ECOWAS Chairman, for his commitment to youth empowerment, democratic inclusivity, and socio-economic progress. He reflected on the SLPP’s accomplishments under President Bio’s administration, emphasizing the party’s emphasis on governance reforms and participatory leadership that aims to leave a lasting impact beyond 2028.
Highlighting a historic milestone, Mr. Kargbo underscored that the recently concluded National Delegates Conference witnessed the election of an unprecedented number of young leaders into top party positions, including himself as the youngest-ever National Deputy Chairman. He described this moment as the beginning of a “new era” for the SLPP, rooted in unity, integrity, and forward-thinking leadership.
“The energy, ideas, and innovation that our young leaders bring are essential to sustaining governance and ensuring that the voices of our youth are heard,” Mr. Kargbo told the audience. “We are building a party that is inclusive, responsive, and ready to meet the aspirations of our people today and for generations to come.”
He paid tribute to the unwavering support of SLPP diaspora chapters, particularly in North America, the United Kingdom & Ireland, and the growing networks worldwide. These chapters, he noted, have played a vital role in mobilizing resources, amplifying party messages, and reinforcing the SLPP’s presence both in opposition and governance. Mr. Kargbo encouraged diaspora members to continue supporting national development through business collaborations, mentorship programs, and youth empowerment initiatives, thereby creating sustainable opportunities for Sierra Leoneans at home.
Speaking to the event’s audience, he said, “Our diaspora is not just an extension of our community; you are active partners in nation-building. By strengthening networks, supporting governance reforms, and investing in local initiatives, you help shape Sierra Leone’s future while ensuring that our youth are empowered and engaged.”
Mr. Kargbo also outlined his commitment to transparency and inclusivity within the SLPP Secretariat. Working closely with National Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa, he promised to foster teamwork and open communication to ensure the party remains responsive to its members. “By building a Secretariat that listens, engages, and acts on the concerns of our members, we will enhance loyalty, participation, and trust both at home and abroad,” he said.
The evening was also a moment of celebration as the SLPP-NA New Jersey Chapter Executive formally presented Mr. Kargbo with a certificate of recognition for his election as National Deputy Chairman. The gesture, met with enthusiastic applause, reflected the diaspora’s confidence in his leadership and their optimism for the party’s future direction.
Throughout the event, the atmosphere resonated with energy, pride, and unity. Attendees expressed excitement over the party’s renewed focus on youth leadership, strategic diaspora engagement, and participatory governance. Many emphasized the significance of the Deputy National Chairman’s message, noting that it was both inspirational and actionable, urging members to collaborate for national development while strengthening the SLPP’s grassroots and international presence.
Mr. Kargbo concluded his address with a call to collective action: “Our greatest strength lies in our people—those at home, those in the diaspora, working hand in hand to create a Sierra Leone that is prosperous, fair, and inclusive. Let us all commit to being active participants in shaping the destiny of our nation.”
As the sun set over Somerset, New Jersey, the gathering left attendees motivated and unified, a testament to the enduring connection between Sierra Leoneans abroad and their homeland, and a reminder that political engagement, when combined with a shared vision and strong leadership, can mobilize communities to achieve lasting progress.
The event further strengthened the SLPP’s resolve to continue its mission of empowering youth, fostering democratic values, and maintaining a strong, accountable party structure that thrives both at home and within the global Sierra Leonean community.
©️ ROB Media and Communication Team
