APC Warns PPRC Against Reliance On Doctored Digital Contents

By Abdul Rahman Bah

On 18 November 2025, the All People’s Congress (APC) issued a firm and detailed response to the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) following a notice citing the party for contravening Section 39(1) of the Political Parties Act No. 25 of 2022 and proposing a fine against one of its district chairmen. In a letter signed by the National Secretary-General, Lansana Dumbuya Esq., the APC strongly questioned the basis, authenticity, and fairness of the PPRC’s action.

In its communication, the APC emphasized that it is unaware of any verified or authenticated incident involving the said district chairman that would amount to a breach of the Political Parties Act. The party underscored that it treats compliance matters with utmost seriousness, but insists that allegations must be backed by credible evidence before punitive action is considered. The APC warned against reliance on unverified recordings or manipulated digital content, noting the increasing circulation of doctored audio clips and misrepresented conversations designed to inflame political tensions.

The party argued that regulatory bodies must exercise heightened scrutiny, especially in the current political climate. It raised concern that similar or even more alarming statements made by senior Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) officials have not attracted equal attention or sanctions from the PPRC. This, the APC stated, risks creating a perception of selective enforcement, partiality, and inconsistency with the Commission’s statutory mandate.

The APC reminded the PPRC that neutrality is not optional, but foundational to its legitimacy under the law. The letter stressed that the Commission must be viewed as a fair umpire in the country’s multiparty democratic system, one that does not appear to lean toward any political actor. According to the party, public trust depends heavily on the Commission’s ability to demonstrate balance, even-handedness, and adherence to due process.

In the interest of transparency and accuracy, the APC requested full access to all unedited evidence, including metadata on which the allegation against the district chairman is based. The party insisted that no fine or adverse determination should be made until such evidence is shared and verified, and until the party is given an opportunity to respond.

The APC reaffirmed its commitment to the Joint Agreement signed on 11 November 2025, expressing its desire to maintain political stability, encourage tolerance, and deter escalation. It added that all institutions and political actors must uphold the same standards of fairness and restraint.

Concluding its letter, the APC expressed confidence that the PPRC will handle the matter in line with its legal mandate and the expectations of impartial democratic oversight. The party reiterated its readiness to activate its internal disciplinary mechanisms once genuine and authenticated evidence is provided.

The exchange signals growing tension between the country’s main opposition party and the regulatory body, with both sides under public scrutiny as Sierra Leone navigates a sensitive post-agreement political environment.