By Janet A. Sesay
The conclusion of the matter of alleged involvement of Bai Mamoud in the November 26 2023 failed coup and his subsequent acquittal has been hailed as a victory for justice and democracy.
This acquittal marks a significant turning point in Bai Mamoud’s political career, the concretization of his integrity and a pathway for the furtherance of affirmed commitment and dedication to serve his All Peoples Congress (APC) party. However, the acquittal came after a rigorous legal battle and submissions of proof of his innocence.
Throughout this challenging period, Bai Mamoud Bangura, who is the current National Organizing Secretary of the APC party, demonstrated remarkable resilience and an unwavering dedication to the principles of democracy, even in the face of intense scrutiny and adversity; he remained steadfast, defending his innocence and working tirelessly to clear his name.
Bai Mamoud’s resilience throughout this ordeal serves as an inspiration, not only to the young people of this country but to all who believe in justice, transparency, and the rule of law.
The National Organising Secretary in his thank you statement after his acquittal said he endured an intense eleven months of investigation and legal scrutiny relating to the November 26, 2023 failed coup.
The High Court of Sierra Leone presided over by
Honourable Justice Komba Kamanda vindicated him of all charges levied against him, reaffirming their fundamental belief in justice and the rule of law.
“I extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to you all for your staunch support during my ordeal, and I do so with immense gratitude,” he stated, adding, “this experience has not only tested my resolve, but also illuminated the strength of the party.”
The acquitted Bai Mamoud called for unity in the APC noting that the strength of the party underscores this significant element aimed at reinforcing the resilience and solidarity of the party’s popularity with Sierra Leoneans. “I therefore encourage everyone to reflect on the values that bind us together as members of the APC to work for peace, unity, reconciliation, and respect for one another,” he called, adding that these principles should not only be spoken as words, but should be seen being put in practice by all and sundry as a way of reinforcing the foundation upon which the must build for the future.
“In that vein; and in the spirit of moving forward, I want to assure everyone that I bear no grudge against anyone. For what befell me, I accept it as the as the will of the Almighty Allah,” the freed APC National Organizing Secretary admitted and encouraged everyone in the party with any kind of ill-feelings, to do the same to clear the way for the party to move forward with a rekindled spirit that is consolidated and that defines the APC.
Bai Mamoud noted the challenges being faced by the party, but admitted that “they are significant” being that they will help transform adversities into collective opportunity, to which he encouraged all members and supporters of the party to be committed to.
“All of us must remain committed to the party’s core values and we should all work tirelessly to uplift the party by ensuring that the voices of the party’s supporters and sympathizers are heard and respected,” he appealed.
He expressed special thanks and appreciation to the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray, the Deputy National Chairman, Amb. Alhaji Osman Foday Yansaneh; all other party officials from National to Ward Executives, his Lawyers, Africanus Sorie Sesay and other members of the party’s indomitable Legal Team, APC Members of Parliament, Councillors, Mayors and Chairpersons of Councils, the media team and all APC associated organizations and affiliate groups, his family and other notable patriotic citizens for their leadership, prayers, support and unalloyed belief in his innocence.
He said their patience and persistent belief in justice and truth have vindicated him and further reinforced their collective mission.
He said the party should harness this momentum to foster a culture of hope and courage within their ranks, adding that as they look forward to the future, let everyone resolve to win as a family.
He continued that they are stronger together, and it is through their collective efforts that they will achieve the greatness they aspire for.
He encouraged everyone to stand firm in their commitment to the APC party and each other, adding that together they can forge a path of progress and prosperity for the nation of Sierra Leone.