By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
The Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, David Moinina Sengeh, conveyed a solemn commitment during an interview with Radio Democracy on December 15, 2023. He pledged to engage in a dialogue with the All -People’s Congress Party (APC) if they assist in the apprehension of escaped prisoners, especially those listed as political prisoners.
Chief Minister Sengeh urged Richard Conteh, who previously handled the matter, to release a press statement encouraging loyal APC members, particularly those on the list, to voluntarily surrender to prison. In return, Sengeh promised to convene a roundtable discussion the following day to address the list before involving the Judiciary.
Sengeh mentioned that the government was reviewing cases of individuals identified as political prisoners by the APC. He requested the APC’s cooperation in facilitating the return of escaped prisoners who remained at large.
Responding to allegations that the attempted coup was staged, Chief Minister Sengeh expressed dissatisfaction, stating that such claims were made by individuals lacking love for the country. He strongly refuted suggestions that the killing of military personnel was orchestrated, asserting that anyone questioning the authenticity of the failed coup lacked a sense of national loyalty.
While acknowledging ongoing investigations into the matter, Sengeh expressed concern about political leaders attempting to portray the incident as staged. He regretted such insinuations, emphasizing the inappropriate nature of such comments, particularly in light of the solemn moments during the burial ceremony for the deceased military personnel. Sengeh concluded by stating that individuals casting doubt on the incident’s authenticity demonstrated a lack of love for the country.