By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown — Minority Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, has defended the All People’s Congress (APC) decision to end its parliamentary boycott, describing the move as a strategic step guided by national interest, democratic accountability, and commitments reached with government and international moral guarantors.
Speaking at a press briefing, Hon. Kargbo said the APC’s return was anchored on an eight-point communique aimed at strengthening parliamentary oversight, promoting national unity, and reforming electoral management structures. He revealed that the agreement includes the creation of a parliamentary oversight committee on electoral bodies, which he described as vital to rebuilding public trust in Sierra Leone’s democratic process.
Hon. Kargbo commended opposition Members of Parliament for their discipline during the boycott, noting that their loyalty reflected commitment to both party directives and democratic governance. He disclosed that the APC has established a technical team to review all laws, agreements, and legislative decisions passed during its absence, ensuring the opposition’s positions are properly recorded for accountability and historical reference.
“In every Parliament, the minority must have a clear and coordinated position. Even if you lose the vote, your position must be on record for the people to judge,” he emphasized.
The Minority Leader expressed concern over electoral transparency and constitutional reforms, particularly the appointment process of the Chief Electoral Commissioner. Citing Section 32(3) of the Constitution, he argued that the President holds excessive powers in appointing electoral commissioners. He said the APC is pushing for Tripartite Committee recommendations, including constitutional amendments to establish an independent nomination committee to vet and recommend candidates for appointment.
“Our focus is not on personalities but on fixing the system. If the law remains the same, the same problems will continue,” Hon. Kargbo stated.
He further disclosed that the APC is investing in modern election-monitoring systems, including a data center designed to track and verify election results in real time, a move he said would safeguard electoral integrity and prevent “pre-arranged outcomes.”
On peaceful protests, Hon. Kargbo maintained that demonstrations are a legitimate democratic right and should not be criminalized. “Protest is part of democracy. Silencing dissenting voices weakens democracy itself,” he noted.
While reaffirming the APC’s commitment to dialogue and diplomatic engagement, Hon. Kargbo stressed that the party will continue to hold government accountable through Parliament and other democratic means. He also warned party members against violating party discipline, citing clear provisions in the APC constitution for members who act against directives.
He assured supporters that the party’s return to Parliament does not signal compromise but rather a tactical decision to fight for reforms from within the legislative chamber. The APC leadership, he said, will focus on monitoring the implementation of agreements reached, pushing for electoral reforms, and ensuring that future elections are free, fair, transparent, and reflective of the will of the people.