AYV News, April 2, 2026
The Executive Director of Accountability Now Sierra Leone, William Sao Lamin, has strongly condemned the ongoing boycott by officials of the All People’s Congress, including chairpersons, mayors, and councillors.
Mr. Lamin expressed concern that the boycott is having serious consequences for ordinary citizens, particularly in local councils where service delivery has reportedly slowed or stalled. He noted that essential services provided by local authorities are being disrupted, leaving communities to bear the brunt of the political impasse.
According to him, while political disagreements are part of democratic governance, actions that negatively impact citizens’ welfare should be avoided. He urged all parties involved to prioritise the needs of the people over partisan interests.
Mr. Lamin further called for constructive dialogue among stakeholders, stressing that engagement and negotiation remain the most effective means of resolving disputes. He emphasised that national development and public welfare must take precedence over political differences.
Observers say the situation highlights the broader implications of political standoffs on governance at the local level, with growing calls for swift intervention to restore normalcy and ensure uninterrupted service delivery across affected areas.
For his part, the Director of the Decentralisation Secretariat, Alex Bonapha, stressed that local councils are legal entities that cannot be boycotted.
He cited Section 3 of the Local Government Act, which establishes councils as corporate bodies with perpetual succession.
Mr. Bonapha also referenced Section 32(2b) of the Act, noting that the Chief Administrator serves as the Vote Controller of the Council. He explained that in the absence of political heads, councils are mandated to continue functioning in accordance with the law to ensure effective service delivery.
