By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Executive Director of Accountability Now Sierra Leone, William Sao Lamin, has strongly condemned the ongoing boycott by officials of the All People’s Congress, warning that the action is having serious consequences for ordinary citizens.
Speaking at a press conference hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education at the Miatta Conference Hall in Youyi Building, Lamin said the decision by APC chairpersons, mayors, and councillors to withdraw from their duties is disrupting essential services across several localities.
He noted that local councils play a critical role in delivering basic services such as sanitation, community development, and local governance. According to him, the absence of key officials has created a vacuum that is already being felt by residents who depend on these services for their daily wellbeing.
“The boycott is adversely affecting ordinary citizens,” Lamin stated, adding that delays and interruptions in service delivery risk undermining development efforts at the grassroots level. He emphasized that citizens should not bear the consequences of political disagreements, especially when such disputes can be addressed through dialogue.
Lamin called on all stakeholders, including political parties, government institutions, and civil society groups, to engage in constructive discussions aimed at resolving the impasse. He stressed that national development and public welfare must take precedence over partisan interests.
He further urged elected officials to reflect on their responsibilities to the people who entrusted them with leadership positions. According to him, public office comes with an obligation to serve, regardless of prevailing political tensions.
The civil society leader also highlighted the broader implications of the boycott, warning that prolonged disruptions in local governance could weaken public trust in democratic institutions. He noted that effective governance depends on continuous engagement and collaboration among all actors within the political system.
While acknowledging the right to protest and express dissent, Lamin maintained that such actions must be carefully weighed against their impact on citizens. He encouraged political leaders to adopt approaches that promote stability and ensure that essential services remain uninterrupted.
Observers at the press conference echoed similar concerns, noting that the situation requires urgent attention to prevent further deterioration in service delivery. Many believe that timely intervention and open communication could help restore normalcy and rebuild confidence among affected communities.
Lamin concluded by reiterating his call for dialogue, urging all parties to prioritize the needs of the people and work collectively towards sustainable solutions. He expressed optimism that with goodwill and commitment, the current challenges can be resolved in a manner that strengthens democratic governance and protects the interests of citizens.
