Renowned Politician FA Kilimanjaro Resigns from APC Amidst Growing Concerns Over Extremism

On January 12, 2024, the well-known Tonkolili politician and socialite Madam Fatmata Kamara, also referred to as FA Kilimanjaro, unexpectedly tendered her resignation from the All People's Congress (APC). 

The powerful woman did not provide specific explanations for her resignation. She was formerly a major participant in the APC and spearheaded the 2017 campaign to support Attorney General and Justice Minister Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara's nomination as the party's 2018 presidential candidate.

While Madam Fatmata Kamara's resignation comes without a stated cause, there is widespread speculation that her decision is linked to a growing discomfort within certain APC factions. Reports suggest that the party has been veering towards an extremist direction, commonly referred to as "Koroma Jihadism," deviating from the fundamental ideals of the APC.

Efforts are currently underway to persuade FA Kilimanjaro to reconsider her resignation from the APC. However, insiders reveal that she is already being courted by the ruling Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP), adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding political dynamics.

The unexpected shift in allegiance by Madam Fatmata Kamara raises questions about the future trajectory of her political career and sparks discussions about the internal dynamics within the APC.

In a letter submitted on January 12th, Madam Fatmata Kamara officially communicated her decision to resign from the APC, leaving observers and political analysts curious about the underlying factors influencing this significant move. Her historical role in advocating for Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara's candidacy in 2018 adds weight to her departure, signaling a potential rift in alignment with the party's current direction.

The term "Koroma Jihadism" has surfaced, indicating a perceived extremist direction taken by the APC, contrary to its foundational principles. This alleged departure from the party's core values may be a contributing factor to Madam Fatmata Kamara's decision to distance herself from the APC.

Despite the ongoing efforts to convince her to reconsider, sources close to FA Kilimanjaro suggest that she is being actively courted by the SLPP. The ruling party's interest in her signifies the potential impact of her political influence and further intensifies the intrigue surrounding her next move.

The political landscape awaits developments as this unexpected resignation unfolds. The departure of FA Kilimanjaro from the APC and the possibility of aligning with the SLPP add a layer of uncertainty to the future political landscape in Tonkolili and beyond. As discussions continue and speculations abound, the focus shifts to the evolving narrative of Madam Fatmata Kamara's political journey and the implications for both the APC and the SLPP