By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The National Secretary General of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), Lansana Dumbuya Esq., has explained the party’s decision to remove its former presidential candidate, Dr. Samura Mathew Wilson Kamara, from his role as Chief Negotiator in the Agreement for National Unity, sighting that Dr Samura Kamara is not leaving to expectations.
Speaking at Liberty Online TV on Monday 15 September 2025, lawyer Dumbuya said the decision was made after careful consideration and consultation during a well-attended National Advisory Committee meeting. He stated that the party had not been receiving the expected feedback from Dr. Kamara in his capacity as Chief Negotiator, a role considered vital in the ongoing dialogue process.
According to the National Secretary General, several recommendations made by the APC had not been fully implemented or effectively followed up under Dr. Kamara’s leadership. This, he explained, created setbacks in advancing the party’s positions during discussions related to the Agreement for National Unity.
Dumbuya further clarified that the decision to appoint Dr. Kaifala Marrah as the new Chief Negotiator was not taken lightly but was based on the need for effective representation and progress in the dialogue process. He stressed that Dr. Marrah is already familiar with the negotiations and the issues at stake, which makes him well-suited to take over the responsibility.
“Dr. Marrah has been part of the team from the onset and understands the dynamics of the process. His experience and commitment will help ensure that the APC’s concerns are properly addressed and that the recommendations put forward by the party are effectively followed through,” Dumbuya said.
The Secretary General also emphasized that the replacement should not be seen as a dismissal of Dr. Kamara’s contributions to the party, but rather as a strategic decision aimed at strengthening the APC’s role in the ongoing national dialogue. He expressed appreciation for Dr. Kamara’s service but noted that the party must prioritize results in its negotiations with the government and other stakeholders.
The Agreement for National Unity was designed to foster dialogue, reconciliation and cooperation among Sierra Leone’s political actors following heightened political tensions in the aftermath of recent elections. As one of the main opposition parties, the APC has been a key participant in the process, advocating for reforms and measures to promote peace, inclusivity and good governance.
With Dr. Marrah’s appointment, the APC leadership hopes to inject fresh momentum into its engagement with the government and ensure that the voices of its supporters are effectively represented. Party insiders believe his leadership style and familiarity with economic and governance issues will strengthen the party’s negotiating team.
In closing, Secretary General Dumbuya reiterated the APC’s commitment to the principles of the Agreement for National Unity and assured members that the party would continue to pursue dialogue in good faith. He called for unity among members, urging them to support Dr. Marrah in his new role and to remain focused on the collective interest of the party and the nation.
