By Thaimu T. Kamara
Hon. Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella and the Chairman of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), Jimmy Batilo Songa, on Tuesday, January 21, 2026, paid glowing tributes to the late Lawrence Kamara during a solemn condolence ceremony at the SLPP headquarters.
Dr. Yumkella signed the book of condolence and laid a wreath in honour of the deceased, as party executives, members, and supporters gathered to bid farewell to one of the SLPP’s most respected figures. The atmosphere was marked by reflection and reverence, with speakers highlighting Prof. Kamara’s lifelong service to academia, national development, and party cohesion.
Delivering his tribute, SLPP Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa described the late professor as a symbol of peace and unity within the party. He urged members to emulate the values Prof. Kamara stood for, particularly at a time when unity remains critical to the party’s future.
“As we prepare to lay one of our most distinguished members to rest, may all party members mirror his spirit of unity and peace,” the Chairman said.
In an emotional address, Sir Jimmy invoked the legacy of the party’s founding fathers—Milton Margai and Albert Margai calling for renewed cohesion as the party looks ahead to the 2028 general elections.
“Prof. Lawrence, I give you this message to deliver to our forefathers that came before us: tell them we want peace in our party and we want to win the 2028 elections,” he stated.
Following the ceremony, Dr. Yumkella held brief interactions with party members and stakeholders, a moment many described as symbolic of solidarity and collective resolve.
The late Prof. Lawrence Kamara served as Vice Chancellor and Principal of Fourah Bay College from 2018 to 2021, where he was credited with promoting institutional reforms and strengthening academic standards. His death, the SLPP leadership noted, represents a profound loss not only to the party but also to the nation.
Party officials concluded that Prof. Kamara’s enduring legacy of scholarship, peace, and unity will continue to inspire both present and future generations.