Freetown, Sierra Leone – February 16, 2026 – Lansana Dumbuya Esq., National Secretary General of Sierra Leone’s opposition All People’s Congress (APC), returns to court today after a weekend in custody at Pademba Road Maximum Correctional Centre.
Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah denied him bail last week during his first appearance at Court No. 1 on Pademba Road.
Dumbuya faces three charges under the Public Order Act: incitement, insulting conduct, and public insult against President Julius Maada Bio.
The charges arise from comments at an APC rally on January 31 at Atouga Mini Stadium, where he allegedly called Bio a “thief” over the 2023 elections and led related chants. He pleaded not guilty on February 12, but bail was rejected despite defense arguments on free speech rights under the 1991 Constitution and 2024 Criminal Procedure Act.
Court proceedings today will likely hear more arguments, possibly revisiting bail or moving to evidence. Supporters and media are present outside the court for updates.
The charges link to Sierra Leone’s tense politics after the 2023 elections, where Bio won with 56.17% amid APC claims of rigging. Observers noted issues with vote counting. The APC boycotted institutions, leading to international talks for reforms, but disputes continue.
Before arrest, the APC paid a NLe 350,000 fine for the rally. Critics call the charges double jeopardy.
APC’s Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr called bail denial “troubling” and urged release. SLPP’s Alie Kabba supports bail but says Dumbuya must face court. Government insists process is fair.
Human rights groups worry about free speech curbs in post-election Sierra Leone. The case unfolds today amid close scrutiny.
