APC Challenges Liability Over Zainab Sheriff Remarks, But PPRC Says Their Correspondence Came After the Stipulated Deadline

Freetown, 11^th February 2026-  The All People’s Congress (APC) has formally contested responsibility for public remarks attributed to Ms. Zainab Sheriff, but the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) insists that the party’s correspondence on the matter was submitted only after the deadline for payment of fines had expired.

In a letter signed by National Secretary General Lansana Dumbuya, Esq., the APC clarified that Ms. Sheriff made the statements in her personal capacity and had accepted full individual responsibility for them. The party stressed that she was not acting as an authorized spokesperson and had even warned she would pursue legal action against the APC if the party assumed liability or made payment on her behalf.

“The Party cannot be held accountable for personal expressions made independently by individuals who do not act as authorized representatives,” the correspondence stated, urging the Commission to direct any enforcement action or financial obligation solely to Ms. Sheriff.

However, the PPRC maintains that the APC’s letter arrived after the February 10, 2026, deadline for payment of fines imposed under Section 39(1) of the Political Parties Act No. 25 of 2022. The Commission said the fines were communicated on February 2, 2026, with reminders issued before the deadline, but the party “failed, refused, or neglected” to comply.

As a result, the PPRC announced the suspension of the APC from all political activities with immediate effect, including meetings, rallies, elections, and administrative operations. The suspension will remain in force until the party pays the outstanding fines and receives written clearance restoring its operational status.

The Commission emphasized that the matter should be treated with “utmost seriousness” to avoid further sanctions, warning that continued non‑compliance could trigger additional penalties, including investigations by the Anti‑Corruption Commission.

The episode highlights a growing tension between political parties and regulators over accountability for individual statements versus institutional responsibility. While the APC insists it engaged the Commission before assuming liability, the PPRC has taken a hard line, enforcing sanctions under the law and underscoring its determination to uphold compliance across Sierra Leone’s political landscape.