Lansana Dumbuya Esq, the National Secretary General of Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), has revealed that he has been invited to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
This summons is reportedly linked to his issuance of a press statement expressing support for former President Ernest Bai Koroma amid coup allegations and treason charges.
Dumbuya, sharing the development on X formally Twitter, stated, “Interesting development, I have just been invited to the CID for issuing out a press statement in support of former President Ernest Bai Koroma.”
In a press release dated January 11, 2024, signed by Lansana Dumbuya Esq, the APC conveyed profound disappointment and anger over what they perceive as the unjust persecution of their former Chairman and Leader, Ernest Bai Koroma. The party staunchly supports the former president, citing his exemplary service during his two-term democratically elected presidency.
The APC condemns the accusations of political vendetta and involvement in a coup d’état, emphasizing Koroma’s dedication to promoting peace, democratic governance, and smooth transitions across Africa since leaving power in 2018. The party views the charges as a dangerous precedent and a credible threat to Sierra Leone’s peace and stability.
Addressing the political climate, the APC denounces what they perceive as a sustained political witch-hunt, intimidation, and harassment, echoing promises made by the current president during the campaign. The press release expresses concern about the pattern of arrests and detentions of their supporters at various levels since 2018, condemning the alleged democratic backsliding and imposition of a one-party political hegemony.
The APC calls for a retraction from what they see as a dangerous and unproductive path taken by the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), urging concrete strides towards peace rather than political divide. The release emphasizes the responsibility to work together for the unity of the country.
Amidst these challenges, the APC asserts its confidence in former President Koroma’s innocence and announces plans to convene to discuss their next course of action, promising to communicate these steps to the public.