By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The All People’s Congress (APC) and the people of Kambia District are mourning the untimely death of Honourable Earnest Dura, the Member of Parliament representing Tonko Limba Constituency, who passed away following a fatal road accident.
Hon. Dura, born on April 17, 1987, in Bayande Town, Kambia District, was a rising political figure known for his humility, dedication, and deep commitment to public service. He was the son of JWY Koroma and Marie Nikamie Kamara and the elder brother of Mohamed Bundu Abubakarr, Julian Yegbety, and Fatmata S. Koroma.
Elected to Parliament on June 26, 2023, Hon. Dura quickly distinguished himself as one of the most vibrant and community-focused young legislators within the APC. His tragic death has sent shockwaves across Sierra Leone’s political landscape, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, constituents, and friends who described him as a patriotic servant of the people.
Confirming the news, a senior APC official expressed deep sorrow, calling the late MP’s passing “a devastating loss not only to the party but to Sierra Leone as a whole.” The official added, “Honourable Dura was young, dynamic, and full of promise. He represented the next generation of leadership our nation so badly needs. His voice in Parliament was one of reason, unity, and vision.”
Members of Parliament from both the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition APC have extended condolences to his family and constituents. The Speaker of Parliament described Hon. Dura as “a fine gentleman whose presence in the Well was marked by intelligence, respect, and purpose.” He added, “He served his people with integrity and commitment. His contributions to parliamentary debates, especially on youth empowerment and rural development, reflected his passion for progress.”
APC leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo also paid tribute, describing Dura as a loyal party member who worked tirelessly to uplift his constituency. “Earnest believed in service beyond politics,” he said. “He was always among his people, listening to their concerns and advocating for development in Tonko Limba. His loss is truly heartbreaking.”
In Kambia, grief and disbelief were evident as community members gathered to honor their fallen representative. Many residents described him as approachable and selfless, a young man who understood their struggles and worked to bring positive change.
Fatmata Kamara, a women’s leader in Kambia, said, “Hon. Dura was not just our MP; he was one of us. He supported women’s farming groups and youth initiatives. We have lost a leader with a genuine heart.”
His parliamentary colleagues recalled his calm demeanor and collaborative spirit. “He was always respectful, even in disagreement,” one MP remarked. “He had a unique way of uniting people, regardless of political differences.”
Hon. Earnest Dura’s death marks a painful chapter in Sierra Leone’s political journey, as many had viewed him as part of a new wave of young leaders poised to shape the nation’s future.
As condolences continue to flow, the APC party and Parliament are expected to hold special sessions in his honor. His legacy, colleagues say, will live on in the values of service, humility, and dedication he embodied throughout his short but impactful career.
