Former President Ernest Bai Koroma has paid tribute to the late Hon. Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray, describing him as a loyal, selfless, and committed member of the All People’s Congress (APC). Dr. Koroma made the remarks on Sunday, November 1, 2026, during a Quranic recitation ceremony held at the Freetown City Council in honour of the late APC stalwart. The ceremony brought together family members, Islamic clerics, and party supporters to offer prayers for the repose of his soul.
Reflecting on their longstanding political relationship, the former President recalled Mansaray’s loyalty and support during some of the APC’s most challenging periods, particularly in 1998. He also recounted how the late politician stood firmly by him during a critical period of leadership consultations, highlighting his commitment to the party and its leadership. This testament to Mansaray's dedication underscores the late chairman's significant contributions to the APC.
Beyond paying tribute to the deceased, Dr. Koroma used the occasion to call for renewed unity within the APC. He urged party members to place collective interests above personal ambitions, political affiliations, and factional differences. This appeal for unity comes at a time when the party is navigating internal dynamics and seeking to strengthen its cohesion.
Addressing broader national concerns, the former President emphasised that lasting peace should not be measured solely by the absence of violence but must also be founded on justice, democratic governance, and shared responsibility. He called on the government to exercise humility in governance and uphold democratic principles. This statement highlights Dr. Koroma's continued engagement with national issues and his commitment to promoting democratic values.
Dr. Koroma also urged opposition parties to remain constructive and committed to holding the government accountable. This call for responsible opposition underscores the importance of effective checks and balances in a democratic system. By emphasizing the role of opposition parties, Dr. Koroma reinforced the value of collaborative governance.
The Quranic recitation ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including Mayor Aki-Sawyerr, who joined APC leaders to pay their respects to the late chairman. The gathering demonstrated the late Mansaray's impact on the party and the broader community, as well as the respect he garnered across different sectors.
Dr. Koroma’s remarks combined a tribute to the late Mansaray’s political legacy with an appeal for reconciliation and unity within the APC, as well as a broader call for responsible political leadership and democratic governance in Sierra Leone. The event served as a testament to the late chairman's enduring legacy and the continued relevance of his contributions to the country's political landscape.
Key points
- Former President Ernest Bai Koroma pays tribute to late APC Chairman Hon. Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray at Quranic recitation ceremony in Freetown.
- Dr. Koroma calls for renewed unity within the APC and promotes democratic governance.
- The ceremony highlights the late Mansaray's significant contributions to the APC and Sierra Leone's political landscape.
