APC Falaba District Chairman, Honourable Lahai Marah, has strongly condemned a viral social media video that he says was deliberately doctored to distort his statements and create political tension ahead of the 2028 general elections.
The footage, which has been widely shared, appears to present Marah making threatening political declarations. However, Marah insists the clip is a manipulated version of his actual remarks, crafted by individuals attempting to weaponize misinformation for political advantage.
In a firm rebuttal, Hon. Marah said the public must treat the video with caution.
“The recording circulating online is edited and does not reflect what I said,” he declared. “It is an intentional attempt to mislead the public and undermine my credibility.”
The controversy escalated shortly after Marah’s recent arrest by Sierra Leone Police while traveling to Freetown an incident that prompted speculation about political interference. Although he was released after several hours, the timing of the arrest has fueled further debate about whether the doctored video and the police action are connected.
Hon. Marah urged Civil Society Organizations, the Political Parties Registration Commission (PPRC), and independent observers to review the original, unaltered audio to understand the context of his comments. According to him, his message was centered on safeguarding Sierra Leone’s democratic space.
“My concerns were about ensuring transparency and accountability in the 2028 elections,” he explained. “What I said was a call for vigilance, not division.”
Marah also emphasized the urgency of implementing the Tripartite Recommendations reforms developed through national consultation to strengthen Sierra Leone’s electoral institutions. He stressed that these reforms are crucial to protecting future polls from manipulation and ensuring the will of the people is upheld.
“Sierra Leone must reject doctored narratives and political mischief,” he warned. “Our focus should be on unity, reform, and national progress.”
The APC Chairman called on government bodies, opposition parties, civil society, and development partners to work collectively toward legislative reforms that promote stability and uphold democratic integrity.
