By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Flagbearer aspirant of the All People’s Congress APC, Dr Ibrahim Bangura, has expressed deep concern over the arrest and continued detention of the party’s Secretary General, Lansana Dumbuya, following remarks he reportedly made at a party meeting.
Addressing party members, Dr Bangura strongly condemned the action, describing it as troubling and inconsistent with democratic principles. He said the situation goes beyond party politics and raises serious questions about respect for free speech, due process and political tolerance in Sierra Leone.
“I am deeply concerned by the arrest and continued detention of APC Secretary General Lansana Dumbuya following remarks made at a party meeting,” Dr Bangura said. “I condemn this action and I am actively engaging with party leadership and fellow flagbearer aspirants to secure his immediate release.”
He emphasized that safeguarding democratic freedoms should never be viewed as a partisan matter but rather as a shared national responsibility. According to him, the protection of civil liberties is essential for the stability and progress of the country, especially at a time when public confidence in democratic institutions is crucial.
Dr Bangura urged the relevant authorities to act with restraint and professionalism, stressing the need for strict adherence to due process. He called on state institutions to demonstrate a clear commitment to democratic values that Sierra Leoneans have struggled to build and preserve over the years.
“Safeguarding democratic freedoms is not a partisan issue; it is a national responsibility,” he stated. “I urge the relevant authorities to act with restraint, respect due process, and show commitment to the democratic values our people have worked hard to build.”
The APC flagbearer aspirant warned that actions perceived as targeting political actors for expressing their views could undermine political pluralism and weaken democratic culture. He noted that political parties must be allowed to hold meetings and express opinions without fear of intimidation or arrest.
Dr Bangura further stated that the strength of any democracy lies in its ability to tolerate dissent and protect differing political opinions. He said this is particularly important as the country approaches a critical period marked by elections and ongoing discussions around constitutional reforms.
“The strength of any democracy lies in its ability to tolerate dissent, protect political pluralism, and uphold the rule of law,” he said. “This is especially important at a time when the country stands at a critical juncture with elections and constitutional reforms on the horizon.”
He called on all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations and the international community, to remain vigilant in defending democratic space. According to him, silence in the face of actions that threaten political freedoms could set a dangerous precedent for the future.
Dr Bangura also appealed to APC members to remain calm and law abiding while efforts continue to secure the release of the detained Secretary General. He said constructive engagement and respect for the law remain the best tools for resolving political disagreements.
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to democracy, dialogue and unity within the APC and the nation at large, stressing that Sierra Leone’s democratic gains must be protected for future generations.
