By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) has used this year’s Independence Day message to call for democratic accountability, full implementation of electoral reforms and urgent action to address worsening economic conditions in Sierra Leone.
In a statement released on April 27 2026 and signed by its National Secretary General Lansana Dumbuya Esq. the party reflected on the meaning of independence, describing it as a hard earned achievement, built on sacrifice courage and a shared belief in self-determination.
The APC said independence should not be seen only as the end of colonial rule but as an ongoing commitment to democracy justice and accountability. It noted that Sierra Leone has shown resilience over the years through peaceful political transitions since the return to multiparty democracy in 1996, a development it said strengthened the country’s democratic credentials.
However the party raised concerns about what it described as a serious departure from democratic norms during the 2023 general elections. It pointed to alleged irregularities and a decline in public trust, warning that the situation placed the country at a critical point.
According to the APC these concerns informed its decision to engage in dialogue rather than escalate tensions. The party highlighted its role in discussions that led to the Agreement for National Unity, including meetings held at Bintumani Hotel in Freetown.
It described the agreement as a rescue effort aimed at restoring democratic order and laying the groundwork for meaningful reforms. Central to this process is the Tripartite Committee, which produced more than 80 recommendations designed to address gaps in the electoral system and strengthen future elections.
The APC also acknowledged the role of international partners such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel and the Commonwealth Secretariat which it referred to as International Moral Guarantors for facilitating dialogue among political stakeholders.
Despite these efforts the party expressed concern over delays in implementing agreed measures and what it described as a lack of full compliance. It warned that conflicting statements from some government officials could undermine progress and weaken public confidence.
The APC stressed that compliance with the agreed reforms is now the true test of leadership and urged the government to act decisively in implementing both the Tripartite Committee recommendations and the outcomes of the dialogue process.
Beyond governance issues the party also raised alarm over rising economic hardship. It cited sharp increases in fuel prices transportation costs and essential commodities such as rice and cooking oil since 2018 while wages have largely remained unchanged.
According to the APC these conditions fall short of the hopes of Sierra Leone’s founding generation and require urgent policy attention to ease the burden on citizens.
The party also expressed reservations about the proposed National Security Bill cautioning that national security measures should not undermine fundamental freedoms. It called for wider national consultations before the bill is passed to ensure that democratic space is protected.
In its concluding remarks the APC urged citizens and supporters to remain calm vigilant and engaged in protecting democracy. It reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful political participation while indicating it may take further steps if agreed reforms are not implemented.
The party ended by reminding Sierra Leoneans that independence is a continuous responsibility that requires active effort to defend democratic values and uphold the will of the people.
