Freetown, August 2026 — The All People’s Congress (APC) National Publicity Secretariat has firmly rejected allegations by flagbearer aspirant Mohamed Omodu Kamara, popularly known as Jagaban, that US$200,000 was paid to party leadership in Bombali District, describing his recent statements as “replete with factual inaccuracies and disparaging insinuations that do not reflect the reality.”
In a statement responding to comments made by Jagaban during an interview on AYV Television, Deputy National Publicity Secretary Mohamed Pope Kamara said the party “regrets some of his statements.”
He revealed that he personally contacted the National Chairman, National Secretary-General, Regional Chairman and Bombali District Chairman. All four “categorically and unanimously” denied any knowledge of such a transaction or its alleged beneficiaries in Bombali, where Makeni serves as the operational headquarters.
The APC demanded that Jagaban provide precise details of the alleged recipients. On a related claim involving US$80,000, the party clarified that the amount was used to facilitate a printing process. Other prospective flagbearers also contributed to the same effort, and the party expressed appreciation for their support.
“At this point, the APC has not received any such financial contribution from Mr Kamara,” Mohamed Pope Kamara stated, adding that it is the party’s duty to defend its image.
The Secretariat further noted that the APC had won elections long before Jagaban emerged on the political scene and stressed that the party’s future does not depend on the participation or candidacy of any single individual.
Background on the Flagbearer Race
Jagaban, a businessman and philanthropist from Blama in Kenema District, was cleared by the APC in early 2026 to contest the flagbearer position after verification of his membership status. He has positioned himself as a major financier of the party, making high-profile donations including more than Le 1.1 billion for the expansion of the Northwest Regional Office (Bai Bureh Hall) in Masiaka, Port Loko District, as well as contributions toward agriculture projects, district offices and community support.
His public profile and financial interventions have made him one of the more visible aspirants ahead of the APC’s internal processes leading to the 2028 general elections. The party has introduced stricter eligibility rules, including a 70% overall score in vetting, five years of continuous membership, and other requirements, as it seeks a candidate capable of uniting the base and challenging the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).
The latest exchange comes at a time when the APC continues to navigate internal dynamics while preparing for 2028. Party officials have repeatedly emphasised institutional resilience over individual candidacies.
Jagaban has not yet issued a detailed public response to the APC’s latest statement demanding evidence of the alleged US$200,000 disbursement.
