Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC) has expressed deep concern and profound disappointment in response to a recent speech delivered by President Julius Maada Bio.
The party made this stance in a statement issued today 24 May 2024, signed by Lansada Dumbuya, the National Secretary General of the APC.
In his address, President Bio warned citizens, stating, “if they come with a bullet, they would be met with a bullet.” This comment comes amid widespread hunger, starvation, and economic hardship in the nation.
In response, the APC criticized President Bio’s choice of words. “Instead of fostering unity and offering words of encouragement to his people, President Bio has chosen to use incendiary and threatening language,” the statement read. “Such rhetoric further divides our nation, which is highly detrimental to the social fabric of Sierra Leone.”
The APC also highlighted the Agreement for National Unity, a mutual commitment to condemn hate speech and violence signed by both the SLPP-led government and the APC.
The agreement states: “The government of Sierra Leone and the APC party strictly condemn all citizens at home and abroad who incite violence, spread hate speech, and disrupt national cohesion (online and offline), and the government will continue all efforts to bring those involved to justice.”
“The acts and words of President Bio are ill-advised and unfortunate,” said the APC. “The leaders of both the APC and the SLPP Government should be diligently working to bring together the nation and foster peace. During these difficult circumstances, it is crucial that we give utmost importance to the unity and coherence of our nation.”
The APC reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, freedom, and the rule of law, opposing the use of governmental authority to coerce or persecute individuals based on their political beliefs or affiliations.
“The government should halt these unjustified steps and focus on fostering authentic dialogue and reconciliation, in accordance with the Bintumani Agreement, to guarantee the political stability and peace of Sierra Leone.”
The APC concluded by urging all citizens to maintain composure and allow the tripartite committee to carry out its essential tasks.
“We maintain optimism that President Bio will collaborate with the APC in the endeavor to unify our citizens and guide the nation towards a tranquil and prosperous future.”
