Flagbearer aspirants of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) have expressed solidarity with their colleague, Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara (JFK), following his arrest and detention on the orders of the Chief Justice during a Supreme Court hearing.
In a joint statement issued today, the aspirants said they noted with deep concern the developments in the Supreme Court during the hearing of the constitutional amendment challenge, which led to the detention of Comrade Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara.
JFK, a former Attorney General and Minister of Justice and a leading member of the APC’s legal team, was reportedly detained for contempt during proceedings.
The aspirants said JFK’s wellbeing, personal dignity and fair treatment are of paramount importance, and extended empathy, thoughts and prayers to him, his family and colleagues.
While stating their solidarity, the group said their statement was made with absolute respect for the independence of the judiciary and without prejudice to matters currently before the Court.
“We reaffirm our unwavering dedication to the rule of law, constitutional due process, and the protection of fundamental human rights for every citizen of Sierra Leone,” the statement reads.
The APC flagbearer hopefuls called on the Supreme Court, legal practitioners and members of the public to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could undermine the ongoing constitutional review process and deepen political division in the country.
They argued that the immediate release of Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara would help restore public confidence in the Judiciary and advance peace and stability.
“At this critical juncture in our nation’s history, it is imperative that our collective focus remains firmly anchored on safeguarding constitutional democracy and fostering national unity,” they said.
The aspirants urged all party members, supporters and citizens to remain calm, conduct themselves with dignity, and avoid words or actions that might distract from the larger constitutional issues at stake.
“Let purpose, responsibility, and respect guide our response – and let the integrity of our democratic institutions remain our shared priority,” they added.
The statement ended with a call for peace, solidarity and unity in defence of justice, the Constitution and the wellbeing of the nation.
It was jointly issued by the APC Flagbearer Aspirants.
