Foday S Kamara, the Head of Communications and Digital Transformation for Samura Kamara, the leader of Sierra Leone’s main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), has issued a statement addressing recent accusations by members of the party on the political situation in the country.

In the statement, Kamara urged supporters to be patient and emphasized Dr. Samura Kamara’s dedication to the democratic process and the nation. He clarified that discussions with the elected President Julius Maada Bio aim to resolve political challenges and ensure stability, dismissing personal vendettas in politics and emphasizing leadership through actions.

Despite Dr. Samura Kamara’s silence on some issues, Kamara stated that it shouldn’t be seen as inactivity but as thoughtful consideration. He further mentioned that a press conference with Dr. Kamara is scheduled for 12 pm GMT on 3rd October 2023 at the APC party HQ in Brookfields.

His full statement reads below.

“Dear Citizens/Supporters,

“We understand that recent comments made by supporters who feel a bit inpatient about the protracted handling of the current political stalemate and the grave issues facing our democracy and democratic institutions have raised concerns and questions regarding Dr Samura Kamara’s commitment to his supporters and his leadership capabilities. We would like to address these issues transparently and directly.

“Negotiations with the President: Dr Samura Mathew Wilson Kamara has always been committed to the democratic process and the will of the people. Any discussions that have taken place between the two political leaders and/or close associates are aimed at solving the impasse, ensuring stability, respecting and promoting the will and interests of the people, and securing prosperity for our nation. These discussions are not an abandonment but a demonstration of tolerant and participatory leadership in trying times.

“Personal Attacks on Dr SAMURA Kamara: We believe that politics should focus on issues and policy, not personal vendettas. The unfortunate comments aimed at the mother of Dr Samura Kamara are not deserving of a response, but we do urge for a more respectful discourse.

“Questioning Dr SAMURA Kamara’s Leadership: Leadership is not only demonstrated through words but actions. Leadership is a collective responsibility, meaning that everyone who takes up leadership positions within an institution has mandate to speak out and defend the institution individually and collectively rather than stay painfully quiet and withdrawn at all times to make you look good in the eyes of the public, while provoking unbearable and destabilising criticisms at others who are bold enough to speak out or act with a view to advancing the interests of the institution. Dr Samura Kamara’s long history of public service and policy reforms speak to his strength and leadership qualities. The many public institutions and development initiatives he has contributed to establishing and strengthening with quality staff and management remain today a living testimony of Dr Kamara’s envied vision and legacy for moving Sierra Leone toward a better future.

“Silence on Issues: Silence should not be misconstrued as inaction or ignorance. Dr Samura Kamara takes all concerns seriously and is taking the time to consult and deliberate on the best and peaceful way forward for our nation.

“We appreciate the active engagement and passion that everyone has shown, and we take your concerns seriously. We are committed to keeping the lines of communication open and will provide updates on these and other issues.

“Please take notice that on the eve of the forthcoming inter-party-political dialogue, Dr Kamara has considered it the right moment to address the nation, and this will be via a press conference to be held at 12 pm GMT on Tuesday, 3rd October 2023, at the APC party HQ, Brookfields.”