Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a sharp rebuke, the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has accused opposition figures from the All People’s Congress (APC) of engaging in hate speech and provocative language aimed at President Julius Maada Bio.
The condemnation stems from comments made during an APC rally at Attouga Mini Stadium in Freetown on January 31, 2026.
A press release from the SLPP, dated February 6, 2026, and endorsed by National Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa, specifically called out APC National Secretary General Lansana Dumbuya, Zainab Sheriff, and various party affiliates for statements deemed to “vilify, humiliate, and stir up hatred” against the head of state. The party warned that such language erodes democratic principles, heightens divisions, and could spark unrest.
“While we uphold freedom of speech as essential to our democracy, it has boundaries,” the statement read, emphasizing that the rally’s rhetoric crossed into unacceptable territory by personally attacking the president and potentially fueling violence.
The SLPP also took aim at a February 4, 2026, response from the APC’s secretary general, labeling it “insufficient and without substance.”
It reiterated that any disputes over the June 24, 2023, presidential election results must be resolved via the Supreme Court within legal deadlines, rather than through public challenges.
Furthermore, the ruling party dismissed opposition efforts to stage or promote “imaginary power transition events” or unsubstantiated claims lacking judicial backing, cautioning that these could destabilize the nation.
Highlighting President Bio’s approach despite a strong electoral victory, the SLPP noted his initiative to foster talks with the APC, culminating in the formation of a Tripartite Committee comprising government officials, opposition representatives, and international mediators.
The statement stressed the vital role of opposition in a healthy democracy but called on all parties to adhere to legal frameworks, encourage national cohesion, and prioritize substantive policy debates over spreading falsehoods.
In a show of backing for law enforcement, the SLPP endorsed ongoing police probes into the January 31 rally’s statements, arguing that holding individuals accountable is key to preventing hate speech and political aggression.
It also praised the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) for its prompt response to potential violations of the 2022 Political Parties Act by the APC.
Concluding on a firm note, the SLPP pledged its dedication to fostering a stable, legal, and democratic environment in Sierra Leone.
