By Forum staff writer
The All People’s Congress APC has distanced itself from comments attributed to Zainab Sheriff following a recent Mammoth meeting that reportedly attracted a fine against the party. Speaking to Truth Media the APC National Publicity Secretary Sidi Yahya Tunis said Sheriff was not an official speaker at the event and that the party is not aware of her formal membership status.
According to Tunis the APC did not assign Zainab Sheriff any role on the official programme of the Mammoth meeting. He stressed that only individuals approved by the party leadership were scheduled to address supporters and make statements on behalf of the party.
He explained that the APC was surprised to learn that the party had been fined over statements allegedly made by Sheriff. Tunis said the leadership is still seeking clarity on the exact comments she made and how they were linked to the sanction imposed on the party.
“We were informed that the party was fined based on a statement made by someone who was not part of our official speakers list. As a party we do not even know her membership status and we were not aware of the content of the statement that led to the fine,” Tunis told Truth Media.
The APC Publicity Secretary said the party believes it is unfair to hold it responsible for comments made by individuals who were not authorised to speak at its event. He added that the party operates through clear structures and protocols and that all official communications are channeled through designated representatives.
Tunis noted that the Mammoth meeting was organised to mobilise supporters and discuss party matters in a peaceful and orderly manner. He said the APC leadership ensured that speakers were briefed to remain within the bounds of the law and to avoid statements that could incite tension or violate regulations.
He further stated that the party is reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident and will engage the relevant authorities to better understand the basis of the fine. According to him the APC remains committed to lawful political engagement and responsible public discourse.
The Publicity Secretary also used the opportunity to caution members and supporters to refrain from making unauthorised statements at party events. He said individuals who speak without approval do so in their personal capacity and not on behalf of the APC.
Political observers say the development has sparked debate within political circles about accountability at public gatherings and the responsibility of political parties for statements made by individuals present at their events.
Meanwhile the APC leadership has assured its supporters that the party will continue to engage constructively with institutions and stakeholders to resolve the matter. Tunis said the party respects the rule of law and will always seek dialogue where misunderstandings arise.
He concluded by reiterating that the APC did not recognise Zainab Sheriff as an official spokesperson at the Mammoth meeting and therefore cannot take responsibility for statements allegedly made by her. According to Tunis the party’s focus remains on strengthening internal discipline and ensuring that its activities reflect its values of peace accountability and democratic engagement.
The issue continues to generate public interest as discussions persist over political responsibility and freedom of expression at large public gatherings in the country.
