AYV News, September 13, 2024

All People’s Congress (APC) Party’s Deputy National Chairman, Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray has assured members and supporters of the Party that the APC has been and will always continue to be on a strong foundation.

He said: “It has remained the most formidable political party in Sierra Leone, with deep-rooted support across the country. Our strength lies in the unity of our members, the dedication of our leadership and the unwavering loyalty of our supporters. We are proud of the progress we have made together and the influence we continue to wield for the betterment of Sierra Leone”.

He encouraged his audience to reflect on the Party’s origins, journey and legacy of leadership that has shaped the political landscape of this country.

He said the APC was born out of a critical moment in Sierra Leone’s struggle for independence. During the Lancaster House Conference in 1960, a disagreement arose between Siaka Probyn Stevens and other leaders over the timing of elections in the country’s path to independence.

Siaka Stevens, he went on, insisted that elections must take place before independence, ensuring the voice of the people would be heard in the establishment of a new government. This disagreement led to his departure from the talks and, subsequently, the formation of the APC on September 11, 1960.

From that moment, the APC became the party of the people. Through determination and resilience, the APC won the 1967 General Elections, a victory that was followed by an attempted coup led by Brigadier David Lansana, who sought to prevent Siaka Stevens and the APC from assuming power. Despite this challenge, the APC, under the leadership of Siaka Stevens, eventually took office in 1968, marking the beginning of a legacy of strong leadership, which has shaped Sierra Leone’s history and progress.

Alhaji Mansaray said: “As we celebrate this milestone, we remind all APC officials, members and supporters of the importance of unity. Our strength has always been our ability to stand together in the face of adversity. It is imperative that we continue to work collectively, putting the interests of our party and the country first. Together, we will build a stronger and more unified APC that is ready to reclaim political victory.

“As we navigate these challenging times, know that the APC will continue to fight for the prosperity and success of Sierra Leone and its people. Let us move forward together with the same spirit of unity and resilience that has guided us for the past 64 years”.