STATEMENT BY DR. RICHARD KONTEH ON RECENT POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND THE STATE OF DEMOCRACY IN SIERRA LEONE

The Unifier Movement and I are closely monitoring a series of recent political developments that, collectively, pose a grave challenge to democratic governance and political stability in Sierra Leone.

From proposed constitutional amendments to the targeted legal pressure on opposition leadership, we are witnessing a troubling pattern that threatens the very foundation of our Republic. Individually, these issues are significant; together, they signal a democratic deficit that no true patriot can ignore.

The Erosion of Due Process and Institutional Trust

The prolonged detention of the All People’s Congress (APC) Party's Secretary General, Mr. Lansana Dumbuya Esq., transcends party politics. In a constitutional democracy, due process and the right to bail are not favours granted by the state, they are fundamental safeguards against the abuse of power. When legal measures appear selective, public confidence in the judiciary erodes, and fear replaces freedom in the political arena. The rule of law must remain colourblind.

Similarly, the Political Parties Regulation Commission’s (PPRC) recent decision to suspend the APC Party because of late payment of fines that are generally considered draconian, is deeply concerning. Regulatory bodies exist to provide clarity and protect the democratic process, not to intimidate or confuse the public. Institutional independence is the bedrock of trust; it must not be compromised for political expediency.

The Right to Internal Self-Governance

Regarding the extension of the current APC Party Executive’s tenure: this was a strategic decision born out of extraordinary circumstances. It was designed to ensure continuity and stability while the party navigates intense legal and regulatory pressures. The APC must be granted the sovereign space to manage its internal affairs lawfully, free from external coercion or state interference.

Constitutional Integrity and the Lessons of History

We are particularly alarmed that these events coincide with proposed amendments to the 1991 Constitution. Any reform of our supreme law must be inclusive and transparent. If amendments are perceived as a means to tilt the playing field, they will not foster progress, but will instead sow the seeds of future discord.

We remind the Government of Sierra Leone and the ruling SLPP of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Recommendations. Those findings were not mere academic exercises; they were bought with the pain of our past. They emphasize:

• The absolute protection of free speech.

• The necessity of impartial state institutions.

• The inclusion of all political voices to prevent the re-emergence of conflict.

Sierra Leone does not suffer from a lack of laws; it suffers from a deficit of trust in how those laws are applied. A strong democracy is built by respecting dissent, not by silencing it.

I therefore call on the Government to take immediate, confidence-building steps:

1. To respect the fundamental human right to free speech and to refrain from weaponizing state institutions against the opposition.

2. Commit to an inclusive process for any and all constitutional amendments.

3. Refocus national energy on the economy and the severe hardships facing our citizens.

I remain firmly committed to peace and constitutional order. I reject violence and incitement in all forms. However, democracy requires the courage to defend fairness and speak out against selective justice.

This is not a moment for escalation, but for reflection. Not a time for intimidation, but for institution-building.

We choose unity over fear. We choose dialogue over disorder. We choose democracy over domination.

Dr. Richard Konteh (D-Unifier)

On behalf of the Unifier Movement