APC Accused of Gender Bias Over Detained Women's Leader

APC Accused of Gender Bias Over Detained Women's Leader

Female in Africa, a women's advocacy organization, has formally accused the All People's Congress (APC), the main opposition party, of gender discrimination. The organization has also called for the immediate release of grassroots women's leader, Zainab Sheriff.

In a strongly worded statement released via social media, the group criticized the APC, calling it a "disgrace to women in Sierra Leone." They highlighted what they perceive as unequal support for Ms. Sheriff compared to that previously demonstrated for Lansana Dumbuya, who was detained on similar allegations.

The organization claimed that Mr. Dumbuya's detention prompted public demonstrations of solidarity and calls for his release from party members, a level of support it asserts has not been extended to Ms. Sheriff. Female in Africa argues that Ms. Sheriff, described as a committed party member and grassroots mobilizer, merits equivalent backing from the APC leadership.

Female in Africa further urged the party to uphold principles of fairness and ensure that its female members are not marginalized during politically sensitive periods. The statement utilized the hashtag #LeaveNoWomanBehind, underscoring what the group positions as a broader concern for the inclusion and protection of women within political environments.

The statement also included commentary on the political activities of Joseph Kamara, presenting these remarks as the organization's independent opinion.

As of the time of publication, the APC has not issued an official response to these allegations.