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All People’s Congress (APC) flagbearer aspirant Mohamed Omodu Kamara, popularly known as Jagaban, has expressed deep concern over the arrest and continued questioning of Comrade Lansana Dumbuya Esq., the National Secretary General of the APC.
In a public statement, Jagaban said the arrest followed remarks made by Dumbuya during an internal party meeting. He described the development as troubling and warned against actions that could undermine free expression and democratic principles in Sierra Leone.
“I am deeply concerned by the arrest and continued questioning of Comrade Lansana Dumbuya Esq., the National Secretary General of the All People’s Congress, following remarks he made during an internal party meeting,” Jagaban stated.
Jagaban stressed that expressing political opinions, particularly those based on reports from domestic and international observers, should not be treated as a criminal act. He said Dumbuya’s comments reflect a long-standing and well-known position of the APC concerning the conduct and outcome of the 2023 elections.
According to Jagaban, such views fall within the bounds of legitimate national discourse in a democratic society. He added that the strength of Sierra Leone’s democracy lies in its ability to tolerate dissent, protect political pluralism, and uphold the rule of law.
“As a flagbearer aspirant and a committed patriot, I strongly believe that the strength of Sierra Leone’s democracy lies in its ability to tolerate dissent, protect political pluralism, and uphold the rule of law,” he said.
Jagaban further cautioned that actions perceived as criminalising free expression could worsen mistrust and heighten tension in the country, especially at what he described as a critical moment in the nation’s democratic journey.
He called on the authorities, including the Criminal Investigations Department of the Sierra Leone Police, to exercise restraint, respect due process, and ensure that Dumbuya’s rights are fully protected.
Jagaban concluded by urging the country to prioritise dialogue over intimidation and democracy over fear, reaffirming his position that open political engagement remains essential to national stability and democratic growth.
