A group representing former APC councillors in Sierra Leone is seeking a greater role in the party's grassroots and election structures. The Council of Former Councillors, led by national chairman and coordinator Councillor Sheka Lamin Dumbuya, believes their experience and knowledge can benefit the party. They have been involved in election-monitoring work and have served as election observers, providing them with practical knowledge about developments at the community level.
The proposed structure would help reconnect former councillors with the party's grassroots operations. Dumbuya stated that former councillors who contested local elections across the country could provide valuable insights into electoral disputes. Their experience working directly with voters and local communities could become particularly relevant during elections. The council's grassroots presence could help the party strengthen its organisation ahead of future elections.
The APC's 2022 constitution already provides for a Former APC Councillors Group. Article 41 states that the group consists of former APC councillors who remain party members and should contribute their knowledge to the party in their constituencies. The article also provides for the group to elect delegates to the National Delegates Conference. Additionally, Article 16 provides for 10 former APC councillors to serve as delegates to the National Delegates Conference.
The proposal has a history within the party's constitutional discussions. A Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) ruling on objections to the APC constitution recorded that former councillors had sought recognition and representation in the party's structures. Dumbuya had presented a proposal concerning representation for former councillors at an emergency National Delegates Conference, but it was rejected by delegates at the time.
Dumbuya urged APC members to accept the outcome of the party's upcoming internal election, regardless of which candidate they support. He encouraged candidates to promote respect for the result among their supporters and to work towards unity within the party. The internal election process should be conducted without favouritism, and party members should focus on maintaining unity after the vote.
The comments place the proposed council within a broader discussion about how the APC can use the experience of former local elected officials while strengthening its grassroots organisation. The party is seeking to utilise the knowledge and experience of former councillors to improve its electoral performance. The proposed council could play a crucial role in this process.
The Council of Former Councillors is seeking to contribute to the party's understanding of electoral disputes and provide practical knowledge about developments at the community level. Their experience and knowledge can help the party strengthen its grassroots organisation and improve its electoral performance. The proposed structure could provide a platform for former councillors to contribute to the party's growth and development.
Key points
- The Council of Former Councillors is seeking a greater role in the APC's grassroots and election structures.
- The proposed structure would help reconnect former councillors with the party's grassroots operations.
- The APC's 2022 constitution already provides for a Former APC Councillors Group.
