On Tuesday, October 15, 2024, a group of individuals claiming to be supporters of the All Peoples Congress (APC) party gathered around the party’s Old Railway Line headquarters in Freetown, chanting slogans and demanding electoral justice.

This demonstration is part of the ongoing tensions following the APC’s defeat in the June 2023 elections to the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).

The demonstration coincided with a crucial meeting inside the APC headquarters between the party’s National Executive and representatives the International from Moral Guarantors, who are monitoring the implementation of the “Agreement of National Unity.”

The agreement, signed between the APC and the government on October 18, 2023, aims to address political tensions and foster national reconciliation.

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APC’S National Publicity Secretary, Sidi Yaya Tunis, was quick to distance the party from the rowdy protesters, firmly denying any involvement in the disturbances. Tunis clarified that the APC’s meeting with international stakeholders was peaceful, and they had requested police presence solely for security reasons.

“There are no skirmishes at our party office,” Tunis said. “We are having a meeting with a joint international mission, and we requested the police to maintain security. Those who are supposed to attend the meeting are allowed in, and those without any business here should not be permitted to cause chaos. It is quiet and peaceful here,” he said

In support of Tunis’ statement, a letter from APC National Secretary General Lansana Dumbuya, dated October 14, 2024, formally requested the Sierra Leone Police to maintain order during the party’s leadership meeting.

The international delegation, which included representatives from ECOWAS, the African Union, UNOWAS, and Commonwealth, was the led by former Gambian Vice President Fatoumata Jallow Tambajang. Speaking at the government’s weekly press briefing on 15th

October 2024, Information and Civic Education Minister Chernor Bah confirmed the incident, stating that police had swiftly intervened to restore order, leading to the arrest of 20 individuals.

“The Sierra Leone Police acted promptly and regained control of the situation. Twenty people have been arrested and are assisting the police with their investigation,” Bah said, emphasizing that the situation in the area is now calm.

Bah also reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding citizens’ democratic rights while maintaining law an order.

“The government of Sierra Leone respects the right of people to peacefully express their views. However, no one will be allowed to infringe on others’ rights to peace, security, and tranquility. Anyone who tries to cause chaos will face legal consequences,” he stated.

As investigations continue, tensions remain high as the APC grapples with its post- election future. Both the party and the government are under international scrutiny to maintain peace and stability in the wake of the 2023 electoral fallout.