APC Concerned About Bio’s ‘Bullet for Bullet’ Remarks

The All People’s Congress (APC) has expressed deep concern and profound disappointment over a recent statement made by President Julius Maada Bio. During a recent address, President Bio warned citizens that any act of aggression would be met with equal force, saying, “If they come with a bullet, they would be met with a bullet.”

This statement comes at a time when Sierra Leone is grappling with severe hunger, economic hardship, and widespread suffering. The APC believes that, rather than inciting fear and division, President Bio should be offering messages of unity and hope. The party remains confident that the people of Sierra Leone understand the power of democracy and that the ballot is mightier than the bullet.

The APC stresses the importance of the Agreement for National Unity, which was signed by both the ruling SLPP government and the APC. This agreement explicitly condemns hate speech and violence, stating: “The government of Sierra Leone and the APC party strictly condemn all citizens at home and abroad who incite violence, spread hate speech, and disrupt national cohesion (online and offline), and the government will continue all efforts to bring those involved to justice.”

The APC views President Bio’s recent comments as contrary to the spirit of this agreement and as potentially harmful to the social cohesion of Sierra Leone. The party urges both the SLPP government and APC leaders to work diligently towards uniting the nation and promoting peace.

In these challenging times, the APC reaffirms its unwavering commitment to democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. The party opposes any misuse of governmental power to intimidate, persecute, or unlawfully detain individuals based on their political beliefs or affiliations. The government should cease such actions and prioritize genuine dialogue and reconciliation, in line with the Bintumani Agreement, to ensure Sierra Leone’s political stability and peace.

The APC calls on all citizens to remain calm and focused, allowing the tripartite committee to carry out its essential work and await its final recommendations. The APC remains hopeful that President Bio will work collaboratively with the APC to unify the nation and steer Sierra Leone towards a peaceful and prosperous future.