By Forum staff writer
The All Peoples Congress (APC) has expressed deep concern over the continued detention of its National Secretary General, Lansana Dumbuya, describing the situation as a troubling development for democratic governance and political tolerance in Sierra Leone. The concern follows events surrounding Dumbuya’s court appearance and subsequent remand, which party stakeholders say raise serious questions about fairness, proportionality, and respect for constitutional rights.
Lansana Dumbuya appeared briefly before a Magistrate’s Court in Freetown on Thursday, 12 February 2026, where he was denied bail and remanded at Pademba Road Prison. This followed an earlier invitation by the Criminal Investigation Department of the Sierra Leone Police on 5 February 2026, during which he was detained for the entire day in connection with the same matter now before the court.
At the time of the initial police action, a press statement had already been issued urging calm, tolerance, and restraint, while emphasising the need to protect democratic freedoms and political rights. The latest development has therefore intensified concerns, particularly as it relates to the same alleged offence for which the All Peoples Congress had already been sanctioned by the Political Parties Regulation Commission.
According to party sources, the APC had complied with the decision of the Political Parties Regulation Commission, including the payment of fines, as a demonstration of respect for the rule of law and regulatory institutions. Against this backdrop, the filing of three criminal charges against the party’s Secretary General and his continued detention has been described as excessive and potentially damaging to the country’s democratic space.
Observers note that Sierra Leone’s post conflict history offers important lessons on the dangers of political intolerance. The findings and recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Sierra Leone consistently emphasised that peace and national stability are anchored in fairness, inclusion, and strong democratic institutions that command public trust.
In this context, concerns have been raised that actions perceived as selective or punitive could undermine confidence in the justice system and strain political cohesion. Calls have therefore been made for the fair, consistent, and lawful application of bail, in keeping with established legal principles and the constitutional presumption of innocence.
The APC has also used the moment to appeal for unity within its ranks, urging all members and stakeholders to put aside internal differences and rally around the party during what it describes as a critical period. Party leaders stress that the collective interest, strength, and survival of the APC must take precedence over individual disagreements.
As the matter unfolds, there have been renewed appeals for reflection and restraint across the political divide. Many believe that Sierra Leone’s continued progress depends on a shared commitment to justice, peace, and reconciliation, as well as the strengthening of institutions that treat all citizens fairly.
Political analysts warn that safeguarding democratic values requires constant vigilance and dialogue, especially during periods of tension. They argue that healing the nation, uniting the people, and building enduring trust in state institutions remain essential to sustaining peace and democratic consolidation in Sierra Leone.
