SLPP National Chairman Unites SLPPNA at Dual Inauguration

SLPP National Chairman Unites North America Region at Dual Inauguration

VINELAND, NEW JERSEY — The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) North America (SLPPNA), in collaboration with its Delaware Valley Chapter (DVC), held a powerful three-day Dual Inaugural celebration that drew hundreds of party faithful and diaspora supporters from across the United States. The event reached its emotional peak with the attendance and intervention of Sir Jimmy Batilo Songa, the SLPP National Chairman, whose visit played a critical role in uniting a divided region.

A Celebration with Purpose

Held from September 26 to 28, 2025, the weekend kicked off with a Meet and Greet Reception on Friday night, hosted at 17 W. Landis Avenue in Vineland, NJ. On Saturday, the spotlight turned to the grand Inaugural Ball, honoring the newly elected leaders of both SLPPNA and the DVC Chapter. By Sunday, the region gathered for a laid-back Cookout, capping off the event in unity and celebration.

National Chairman’s Mission: Heal and Unite

Sir Jimmy Batilo Songa’s presence brought weight and symbolism to the occasion. Flying in from Sierra Leone, his keynote speech delivered more than ceremonial words — it delivered a message of discipline, service, and unity.

“Disunity weakens us. Collaboration empowers us,” he said in his address. “Your success here in North America must always be linked to the collective success of the SLPP at home and abroad.”

Behind the scenes, however, the National Chairman had a larger mission. Briefed by Desmond Pessima, Regional Chairman of SLPPNA, Sir Jimmy learned of lingering cracks within the North America region — internal grievances that threatened cohesion.

What followed was a masterclass in diplomatic leadership.

Using his personal phone, Sir Jimmy directly contacted each aggrieved member. He encouraged all parties to put aside differences and join a unified meeting, which he chaired after the Inaugural Ball and before the Sunday Cookout. That meeting, held on Sunday, September 28, brought healing and unprecedented unity to the chapter.

A Stronger Region Emerges

Before that meeting, the SLPPNA Caucus released a brief but hopeful message:
“I had a very good discussion with our National Chairman… He was very excited and extended his greetings to everybody… Please let us be on time.”

This meeting, mistakenly scheduled for Saturday, instead occurred on Sunday and marked the final turning point. The region, once divided, now moves forward more unified than ever.

Spotlight on the Leaders

– Sir Jimmy Batilo Songa – National Chairman, SLPP
– Desmond Pessima – Chairman, SLPP North America
– Dende Korpoi – Chairman, DVC Chapter

Each of these leaders played a key role throughout the weekend. Chairman Pessima was recognized in Sir Jimmy’s speech for “exceptional leadership” and for making North America “a credible and visible part of our global SLPP family.”

Looking to 2028

The Chairman’s message also looked ahead to the 2028 elections. He urged all members to align loyalties with President Julius Maada Bio and to set aside “egos, factions, and divided loyalties.”

“No individual is bigger than the party… Together, by serving diligently and selflessly, we will achieve another victory.”

A Lasting Impact

This visit by Sir Jimmy Batilo Songa left more than memories – it left a legacy. His strategic unity meeting, his passionate keynote, and his direct outreach to members changed the tone and future of SLPPNA.

With the rallying cry of “One Country, One People”, the Sierra Leone People’s Party in North America now walks stronger – and more united – toward its goals at home and abroad.

Event Snapshot

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SLPP NATIONAL CHAIRMAN’S SPEECH_North America Executive Inauguration 2025.docx