AYV News, January 17, 2024
The leadership of the main opposition, All People’s Congress (APC) Party has cautioned its members and supporters against any planned protest in support of some suspects of the alleged November 26 failed coup.
In a press statement, the Leadership said: “The APC wishes to inform its membership and the general public that it has called for no such protest and therefore asking its membership, supporters and the general public not to get involved or participate in such protest”.
Also, on 27th November, 2023, the APC put out a statement in condemnation of the failed coup and pledged its full support and cooperation with law enforcement agencies during the investigations.
The release stated: “We are very much mindful of the fact that our former Chairman and Leader and our National Organising Secretary have both been charged to court and other members of the party have also been associated with the coup.
“We want to assure our membership that the leadership of the party is doing everything legally possible to ensure our former Chairman and Leader and the National Organising Secretary are accorded fair trial and justice and their dignity and human rights are maintained.
“We call on all our members and supporters to allow the judicial process to continue, while the leadership continues with more meaningful ways of getting to the bottom of this matter at these trying times. We call on you to be law-abiding and not take the law into your own hands by participating in a protest not sanctioned and organised by the party”.
In a similar development, the APC National Chairman, Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray has appeals for unity amidst what he described as internal challenges.
Mr. Mansaray expressed his concern over recent incidents of intra-party factional attacks, indiscipline, and divisive accusations.
He emphasised the need to preserve the integrity and strength of the APC, urging members to focus on the party’s shared goal of providing better governance for Sierra Leone.
Chairman Mansaray called on APC members to unite in providing the leadership needed for Sierra Leone’s revival and progress, while specifically addressing various segments of the APC, recognising the determination of the disabled wing, appreciating the support from the APC Diaspora and commending the dedication of APC Councillors, Mayors, Chairpersons of Council and Members of Parliament.
Chairman Mansaray assured party members that, with unity and perseverance, the APC would overcome current challenges and continue to work towards delivering a better Sierra Leone, while calling for reconciliation and the construction of a common ground to achieve the victory the party strives for, emphasising the importance of making the APC more inclusive.