By Zainab Brown
Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), has formally disputed responsibility for public remarks attributed to one of its members, Zainab Sheriff, following an administrative fine reportedly imposed by the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC).
In a letter addressed to the PPRC chairman, the APC said the statements in question were made in Sheriff’s personal capacity and not on behalf of the party.
“The Party cannot be held accountable for personal expressions made independently by individuals who do not act as authorized spokespersons or representatives,” the correspondence stated.
The APC said Sheriff had publicly accepted individual responsibility for her remarks and indicated that she did not expect the party to assume liability. The party urged the Commission to direct any enforcement action or financial obligation solely to her.
However, the PPRC said the APC’s correspondence was received after the stipulated deadline for payment of the fine had expired.
The regulator has not publicly detailed the nature of the remarks that led to the sanction, but it has previously cautioned political actors against inflammatory or irresponsible public statements.
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between political parties and regulatory authorities over accountability for statements made by party members, particularly in media appearances and public forums.
The APC said it remains committed to cooperating with the Commission and upholding responsible political engagement, while maintaining that it bears no institutional responsibility for the remarks attributed to Sheriff.
The PPRC has not indicated whether further action will be taken.
