A CALL FOR UNITY, STRATEGIC AND PEACEFUL RESOLUTION OF BORDER DISPUTE

Freetown -25th February, 2026

I am deeply concerned about the recent cross-border incidents involving the Guinean military and personnel of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) in Falaba, including developments in Yenga. Reports of confrontations and the capture of Sierra Leonean military personnel are worrying and require urgent attention.

I stand strongly with the State and the men and women of our Armed Forces who defend our territorial integrity with professionalism and courage. The sovereignty of Sierra Leone is sacred and non-negotiable. Our borders must be respected, and our national dignity must be upheld.

At this critical moment, unity is vital on this significant national security matter. As a flagbearer candidate of the All Peoples Congress (APC), I am fully committed to working with my party, the Government of Sierra Leone, and all relevant stakeholders to ensure this issue is addressed decisively, strategically, and peacefully in the highest national interest.

At the same time, I would like to remind the Government of the Republic of Guinea of the profound historical ties that connect our two nations. Our people share culture, kinship, and a long history of cooperation. During Sierra Leone’s civil war, Guinea provided refuge and support to thousands of our citizens. That legacy of solidarity should guide our actions today.

Incidents along our shared border, including in Yenga, threaten to undermine decades of regional cooperation and mutual trust. I therefore urge the Guinean authorities to take immediate action to halt any measures that escalate tensions, respect established boundaries, and engage constructively through diplomatic and bilateral channels to resolve all outstanding issues. However, peace must be rooted in mutual respect and adherence to agreed principles.

To my fellow Sierra Leoneans, I call for calm, unity, and support for our institutions. Let us stand together, as we strive for a just and peaceful resolution, and let us promote our national interests and uphold the dignity of our Republic.

Dr. Ibrahim Bangura

Flagbearer Aspirant – All Peoples Congress (APC)

Republic of Sierra Leone