A leading presidential aspirant for the main opposition All People’s Congress ahead of the 2028 elections, Bai Mamoud Bangura, on Wednesday hosted his second Iftaar conference, bringing together community members, representatives of various organizations and supporters of the APC to promote peace, unity and prayer.The event was held on March 11, 2026 at Freetown City Hall.In his address, Bangura expressed gratitude to all those who honored his invitation, explaining that the conference was organized to give thanks to Allah for His blessings and to strengthen unity among members of the party and the wider community.Reflecting on the previous year, Bangura noted that during his first Iftaar conference he did not have the opportunity to fully engage with supporters. However, he said that through faith and perseverance he was able to reunite with the people and continue sharing a common vision for national redemption, change and prayers for the country.He recalled that at the time of the first Iftaar gathering he was serving as the National Organizing Secretary of the APC, but said that this year he stands before supporters as an aspiring flagbearer and presidential hopeful for the Republic of Sierra Leone.Bangura stated that over the past few years the patience of APC members and Sierra Leoneans in general has been severely tested. He paid tribute to several party loyalists who have lost their lives in the interest of the party, mentioning names such as Umaru, Sheku Tejan, Amadu Keita and Kadie from Lungi, among others.He also noted that the party continues to face difficult moments as its former Chairman and Leader, Ernest Bai Koroma, and the current National Chairman and Leader, Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray, are both currently out of the country for medical treatment. He called on supporters to remember them in their prayers.The presidential aspirant further highlighted the economic challenges facing citizens, including the rising cost of living, energy shortages, food insecurity and what he described as injustices affecting the people.Despite these challenges, Bangura urged party supporters, particularly the youth, to remain steadfast. He emphasized that the trials the party has faced should serve as a reminder of their responsibility to work for meaningful change in the country.According to him, the energy and determination of young people, combined with faith in God, will play a crucial role in transforming Sierra Leone.He also referenced the imprisonment of APC Secretary-General Lansana Dumbuya, stating that he believes Dumbuya was detained for standing up for what he described as the truth.Bangura stressed that while people understand the country’s problems, vision and energy alone will not be enough to address them. Instead, he said, faith and prayer must guide efforts to achieve national progress.With only about ten days remaining before the end of Ramadan, he called on Muslims to intensify their prayers, seek forgiveness from Allah and pray for peace, justice and prosperity in the country.He added that the purpose of organizing the conference was to promote the vision of young people and encourage unity, noting that whatever Allah has destined cannot be changed by anyone.Bangura assured supporters that his ambitions are not driven by wealth or magic, but by a commitment to serve the people and deliver meaningful leadership if he becomes the APC flagbearer and eventually President of Sierra Leone.He concluded by praying for wisdom and strength to enable him to deliver justice and address the challenges facing citizens.The event also featured lectures from several Islamic scholars and Imams, who spoke on the significance of Ramadan and encouraged Muslims to uphold the values of patience, prayer and compassion during the holy month.