President Julius Maada Bio has declared that any supporter of the opposition All Peoples Congress (APC) in Bonthe District “shall die early in the morning,” a remark that has triggered widespread condemnation amid the launch of a ruling party office in the district.

Speaking at the official opening of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) District Office in Mattru Jong on April 5, 2026, President Bio, who also serves as the SLPP leader, addressed party members and made the statement about APC supporters in the area.

“Anyone in Bonthe District who says they support APC shall die early in the morning,” the President said, according to multiple reports.

Bonthe District is widely regarded as a stronghold of the ruling SLPP.

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Following the backlash, State House Communications Director issued a statement clarifying that the President’s comments were “quite metaphorical in Mende,” adding that the remarks implied that anyone “born, raised, and who sticks with the APC in Bonthe is somehow cursed.”

The clarification has done little to quell criticism, with opponents describing the language as inflammatory and a threat to political tolerance.

During the same event, President Bio described the new district office as a hub for engagement and community interaction, emphasizing that the facility belongs to all SLPP members in the district and should be used to strengthen unity and coordination.

“I urge all of you to put aside your differences and work together for a landslide victory in 2028,” he stated, adding that the office will also be equipped with internet connectivity to enhance communication and outreach.

The President’s remarks have drawn sharp condemnation from opposition figures and civil society groups, who argue that such statements undermine democratic principles and could incite violence against opposition supporters in the district.

As of the time of this report, State House had not issued further comment beyond the Communications Director’s explanation.