APC Leadership Reschedules Constituency Polls

Party Says Delay Will Allow Completion of Internal Processes and Ensure Credible, Peaceful and Inclusive Polls

The National Secretariat of the All People’s Congress (APC) has announced the postponement of its nationwide constituency elections by one week, moving the exercise from Saturday, 4 July 2026, to Saturday, 11 July 2026, following consultations with the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC).

The announcement, contained in a public notice issued on Thursday, 2 July 2026, stated that the decision was reached after extensive consultations between the party’s National Leadership and officials of the Political Parties Regulation Commission during a meeting held at the Commission’s headquarters at Tower Hill in Freetown.

According to the APC, the postponement also followed the issuance of an Advisory Note by the PPRC on the same day, which provided guidance on matters relating to the conduct of the party’s internal elections.

The party explained that the additional week will provide sufficient time to conclude a number of outstanding internal engagements, administrative procedures, logistical arrangements, and consultations necessary to ensure that the constituency elections are conducted successfully across the country.

Party officials emphasized that the decision was taken after careful consideration of the prevailing circumstances and reflects the leadership’s determination to prioritize transparency, inclusiveness, and organizational stability over adherence to the original election date.

Leadership Explains Reason for Delay

In its statement, the APC acknowledged that preparations for the constituency elections were at an advanced stage but noted that several outstanding issues required further attention before members could proceed to the polls.

According to the party, internal consultations are continuing in various districts and constituencies to address administrative concerns, harmonize electoral arrangements, and ensure that all stakeholders participate under conditions that inspire confidence in the electoral process.

The leadership maintained that allowing additional time for these engagements will help prevent misunderstandings, strengthen coordination among party structures, and create an environment conducive to peaceful and orderly elections.

The statement stressed that the postponement should not be interpreted as evidence of crisis or disorganization within the party but rather as a responsible administrative measure aimed at safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process.

“The adjustment to the electoral timetable is intended solely to ensure that every necessary process is completed before voting begins,” the statement indicated.

Commitment to Internal Democracy

The APC reaffirmed that strengthening internal democracy remains one of its highest priorities and that every effort is being made to conduct elections that reflect the wishes of members across the country.

According to the leadership, constituency elections are a critical component of the party’s democratic architecture because they provide members with the opportunity to elect officials who will coordinate political activities, strengthen grassroots mobilization, and prepare the party for future national elections.

The statement emphasized that the credibility of these elections is essential not only for the stability of the APC but also for maintaining public confidence in the party’s democratic credentials.

Party officials therefore said they were unwilling to compromise the integrity of the process by proceeding before all administrative and logistical requirements had been satisfactorily completed.

The leadership reiterated that every eligible member should have the opportunity to participate in elections that are transparent, free, fair, inclusive, and accepted by all contestants.

Working with the Political Parties Regulation Commission

The APC noted that its engagement with the Political Parties Regulation Commission forms part of its commitment to complying with the country’s legal and regulatory framework governing political parties.

According to the statement, consultations with the Commission demonstrate the party’s willingness to work constructively with oversight institutions in ensuring that its internal electoral processes are conducted in accordance with democratic principles and established regulations.

The party expressed appreciation for the role played by the PPRC in facilitating dialogue and providing guidance aimed at strengthening internal governance within political parties.

Officials observed that collaboration between political parties and regulatory institutions remains essential for promoting peaceful political competition and enhancing democratic governance in Sierra Leone.

Reassurance to Members and Aspirants

Recognizing that the postponement may cause disappointment among some aspirants and delegates who had been preparing for the elections, the APC leadership appealed for patience and understanding.

The statement reassured all contestants that the postponement does not alter the party’s commitment to holding the elections but merely adjusts the timetable to improve the overall quality and credibility of the process.

Members were encouraged to remain focused on promoting issue-based campaigns while respecting party rules and avoiding actions that could create unnecessary tension within constituencies.

The leadership also appealed to aspirants to continue engaging their supporters peacefully and responsibly while awaiting the new polling date.

According to the party, unity among members remains essential if the APC is to emerge stronger from the internal electoral process.

Call for Peace, Discipline and Unity

The APC acknowledged that it is currently navigating a challenging period but expressed confidence that the party possesses the resilience necessary to overcome its internal difficulties.

The statement observed that throughout its political history, the APC has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to resolve differences through dialogue and collective commitment to the party’s ideals.

It therefore called upon members to avoid inflammatory rhetoric, political intimidation, or any conduct capable of undermining party cohesion.

Instead, party supporters were urged to demonstrate patience, discipline, mutual respect, and loyalty while preparations continue for the rescheduled elections.

The National Leadership stressed that peaceful conduct during the electoral process will reinforce the party’s democratic values and strengthen public confidence in its institutions.

Importance of the Constituency Elections

The upcoming constituency elections are expected to play a significant role in reorganizing the APC’s grassroots structures nationwide.

Successful candidates will be responsible for coordinating party activities within their respective constituencies, mobilizing members, strengthening local organizational structures, and supporting preparations for future local and national elections.

Political observers have noted that the elections represent an important opportunity for the APC to consolidate its internal structures, promote grassroots participation, and reinforce unity among members as the party continues positioning itself for future electoral contests.

For many members, the constituency elections are regarded as a critical stage in rebuilding party cohesion and strengthening the APC’s organizational capacity across Sierra Leone.

Looking Ahead

Expressing optimism about the revised timetable, the APC leadership reaffirmed its confidence that all outstanding issues will be resolved before the new election date.

The party said it expects the nationwide constituency elections to proceed peacefully and successfully on Saturday, 11 July 2026, with broad participation from delegates and members across all constituencies.

The National Secretariat concluded by thanking party members, aspirants, delegates, and supporters for their patience, understanding, and continued loyalty.

It urged everyone connected with the process to remain calm, law-abiding, and committed to preserving the unity of the party while preparations continue for what the leadership hopes will be transparent, credible, peaceful, and inclusive constituency elections that further strengthen the APC’s democratic traditions.