Magistrate Jah Remands APC National Secretary General

The National Secretary General of the All Peoples Congress (APC), Lansana Dumbuya, has pleaded not guilty to all three count charges filed against him, including incitement and other related offences. Mr. Dumbuya entered his plea during proceedings at Court No. 1 on Pademba Road in Freetown, where the matter is currently being heard.

The charges are said to stem from statements allegedly made against the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, which prosecutors claim were capable of inciting public disorder. However, the defense maintains that the statements fall within the framework of lawful political expression and democratic engagement.

Defense Applies for Bail

As proceedings continued, Borbor Kabba Esq., the Leading Defense lawyer for the National Secretary General of the All People’s Congress (APC), Lansana Dumbuya, formally applied for bail on behalf of the accused, citing the relevant constitutional and statutory provisions that empower the court to grant bail to an accused person pending trial.

Counsel submitted that the offences charged are bailable and urged the court to exercise its discretion in favor of the accused. Counsel argued that Dumbuya is a reputable personality in Sierra Leone and that granting him bail would not impede or interfere with the ongoing trial. He further argued that Mr. Dumbuya is a responsible citizen with a known address and no flight risk, and would make himself available to stand trial.

Prosecution Objects to Bail Application

However, in response, the Prosecuting Counsel opposed the application, arguing that the nature and gravity of the charges warrant caution. After listening to submissions from both the defense and the prosecution, Magistrate Jah denied the bail application and ordered that the APC National Secretary General be remanded in custody.

The matter has been adjourned to 16th February 2026 for further hearing.

The case continues to draw significant public and political attention, given the prevailing political climate in the country.