A United Kingdom-based member of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), Adams Bangura, has called on President Julius Maada Bio to facilitate the permanent return of former President Ernest Bai Koroma to Sierra Leone following the death of APC National Chairman, Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray.

In an open letter dated 15 June 2026 and sent from London, Bangura said the death of Mansaray presents an opportunity for national reflection and reconciliation.

He commended President Bio for extending condolences to the APC and the bereaved family but urged him to go further by lifting any existing restrictions affecting former President Koroma’s return to the country.

Bangura noted that the late Mansaray and former President Koroma shared a long-standing political and personal relationship, describing Mansaray as one of Koroma’s close allies and key political associates within the APC.

He stated that allowing Koroma to return to Sierra Leone to attend funeral arrangements would enable him to pay his respects to a long-time colleague and contribute to national unity during a period of mourning.

According to Bangura, such a move would demonstrate statesmanship and support ongoing efforts toward reconciliation and political cohesion in the country.

“The death of Chairman Minkailu Mansaray offers a moment for national leaders to show unity and place the country above political divisions,” he stated in the letter.

He further argued that permitting the former president to spend his retirement in Sierra Leone would be a recognition of his status as a former Head of State.

The appeal comes as tributes continue to pour in for Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray, who held several senior positions in government during the administration of former President Koroma and was regarded as a prominent figure within the APC.

Bangura concluded by expressing hope that President Bio and former President Koroma could jointly participate in the funeral proceedings as a symbolic gesture of national unity and respect for the late APC chairman.