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The All Peoples Congress (APC) has raised objections to the government’s reported introduction of an “interim political head” to oversee APC-led local councils, describing the move as unlawful and without statutory backing.
In a formal communication addressed to the Ministry of Finance, the party’s National Secretary General, Lansana Dumbuya, argued that the designation “interim political head” is not recognized under existing legal frameworks, including the Local Government Act 2022 and the Public Financial Management Act.
According to the APC, the directive appears to create a pathway for the installation of what it termed an “Acting Mayor,” particularly in reference to the Freetown City Council. The party maintains that such a position has no basis in law and could undermine established governance structures.
The APC further stated that the current absence of its elected mayors linked to an ongoing governance boycott does not constitute a legal vacancy in those offices.
It also argued that councillors from the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) do not meet the quorum required to conduct official council business in APC-controlled municipalities.
In its letter, the opposition party called on the Ministry of Finance to reconsider the directive and take steps to ensure adherence to the law. The APC emphasized the need for clarity and respect for statutory provisions governing local councils.
The development adds to ongoing political tensions between the APC and the government, particularly around issues of local governance and administrative authority. As of now, there has been no official public response from government authorities regarding the APC’s claims.
Observers say the matter could have broader implications for the functioning of local councils if not addressed promptly, especially in key municipalities where political disagreements have affected administrative operations.
