Justice Adrian Fischer has issued a warning to members and supporters of Sierra Leone's All People's Congress (APC) against disrupting the party's internal elections. According to a statement from the APC Strategic Communication Unit, Fischer cautioned that those found responsible for disruptions could be detained until after the National Delegates Conference. The warning comes amid reported incidents of intimidation, threats, and alleged destruction of ballot boxes.
The judge urged party leaders, including Osman Foday Yansanneh and Sidi Yaya Tunis, to ensure their members respect the electoral process and avoid actions that could undermine the polls. Fischer emphasized that disagreements over the elections should be addressed through lawful and peaceful channels. He reportedly condemned incidents involving intimidation, threats, and disturbances at polling centers.
Justice Fischer reinforced his warning, stating that individuals brought before the court and found culpable of electoral disruptions could be detained until the conference concludes, subject to the law and the court's decision. The judge urged aspirants and their supporters to follow the electoral rules, respect the outcome, and allow the internal process to proceed without violence or disruption.
The APC Strategic Communication Unit issued the statement, which has not been independently verified. The warning comes as the party conducts its internal elections, with some districts experiencing delays due to legal disputes. The party has completed elections in 15 districts, but Kambia and Karene have been delayed.
The incidents of disruption and violence have raised concerns about the stability of the electoral process. The APC is one of the major political parties in Sierra Leone, and its internal elections are being closely watched. The party's National Delegates Conference is expected to take place soon.
Justice Fischer's warning is seen as a move to ensure the smooth conduct of the party's internal elections. The judge's statement has been made public, and it is expected to have a calming effect on the party's members and supporters. The APC has not commented on the number of incidents or the extent of the disruptions.
The internal elections of the APC are crucial for the party's future, and the warning by Justice Fischer is expected to help prevent further disruptions. The party's leadership has urged its members to remain calm and to respect the electoral process. The outcome of the internal elections will be closely watched by the party's supporters and the general public.
Key points
- Justice Adrian Fischer warns APC members against disrupting internal elections, threatening detention until after the National Delegates Conference.
