Former APC Ministers Demand Immediate Interim Administration as Executive’s Term Expires

The Former APC Ministers Association (FORMINA) has raised concerns over the expiration of the prescribed term of office of the National Executive of the All People’s Congress (APC) and what it describes as a continued delay in establishing an appropriate transitional arrangement.

In a position statement, FORMINA maintained that respect for the APC Constitution and the rule of law must remain paramount, arguing that an expired mandate should not be extended through administrative convenience or inaction.

The association has therefore called for the immediate establishment of a lawful, neutral and time-bound interim administration to conclude outstanding party processes and facilitate the convening of a National Delegates Conference for the election and assumption of office of a new National Executive.

FORMINA said its position is based on Section 39(5) of the Political Parties Registration Commission (PPRC) Act of 2022, which, according to the association, stipulates that a political party shall not extend the tenure of any of its executives for more than six months.

The association has also urged the APC’s Legal Advisers to issue an urgent and considered legal opinion clarifying the constitutional status of the current leadership and recommending an appropriate mechanism for establishing an interim administration and completing the transition.

FORMINA further called on the current leadership to refrain from exercising authority in a manner it considers inconsistent with Articles 5 and 52(a) and (b) of the APC Constitution. According to the association, the provisions underscore the supremacy of the party’s Constitution and provide for a three-year mandate for the executive.

The association warned that continued uncertainty over the party’s leadership could lead some members to pursue legal action to protect what they regard as the APC’s constitutional and democratic integrity.

FORMINA said such a development could further undermine the party’s cohesion and preparedness, although it stressed that the matter should preferably be resolved internally, responsibly and without unnecessary litigation.

The association also appealed to Comrade Alie Suma, APC District Chairman of Port Loko, to withdraw his legal action against the APC and the Political Parties Registration Commission (PPRC), urging all parties to pursue an internal resolution of the dispute.

FORMINA called on all stakeholders within the APC to act promptly in what it described as the overriding interest of the party.

“The Party must remain above individuals, and constitutionalism must prevail over political convenience,” FORMINA stated.