By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Opposition Leader in Parliament, Hon Abdul Kargbo, has stated that the All Peoples Congress (APC) remains open to dialogue in the interest of national peace and democracy but will not engage in discussions with Chief Minister Dr David Sengeh.
Speaking on the current political situation at Liberty Online TV, Hon Kargbo disclosed that several stakeholders, including the Chief Minister, members of the Peace Committee and other actors, have reached out to the APC leadership to initiate discussions. However, he made it clear that his party’s focus remains firmly on ensuring that the ruling Sierra Leone Peoples Party SLPP implements the recommendations agreed upon under the Tripartite process.
According to Hon Kargbo, he has advised APC members across the country to stay disciplined and focused on the party’s main objective, which is to hold the government accountable to the commitments it made through the Tripartite recommendations. He emphasized that the APC is not opposed to dialogue but believes that any engagement must be meaningful, respectful and aimed at resolving the core issues affecting the country’s democracy.
“We are always open to dialogue,” Hon Kargbo said, “but not with Chief Minister Dr David Sengeh.” He accused the Chief Minister of lacking the maturity and respect required for constructive political engagement, noting that mutual respect is essential for any serious discussion between political actors.
Hon Kargbo further alleged that Dr Sengeh has, on several occasions, spoken to him in a disrespectful manner, which he described as unacceptable. He stressed that no one can disrespect him and still expect him to sit at the same table for dialogue.
“You cannot disrespect me and still want me to have a conversation with you,” he stated. “That is not good enough for someone occupying such a high office in government.”
The Opposition Leader also took a swipe at the Chief Minister’s public communication style, suggesting that Dr Sengeh prefers to engage in political exchanges on social media rather than through formal and respectful channels. He remarked that the Chief Minister should continue his work online if that is where he feels most comfortable.
Despite his strong criticism of Dr Sengeh, Hon Kargbo reiterated that the APC remains committed to peace, stability and democratic governance. He said the party is prepared to engage with credible and respectful actors who are genuinely interested in implementing the Tripartite recommendations and addressing the concerns of the Sierra Leonean people.
He concluded by calling on the SLPP government to demonstrate sincerity by fully implementing the agreed reforms, adding that meaningful dialogue can only take place when there is trust, respect and a clear commitment to honouring national agreements.
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