Source: Africa Publicity
Sierra Leone is mourning the death of Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray, the National Chairman of its main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), whose passing was announced on Monday, June 15, 2026.
Mansaray, a veteran politician, businessman, and former government minister, was widely regarded as one of the APC’s most influential figures and a key contributor to Sierra Leone’s democratic and political development over several decades.
President Julius Maada Bio paid tribute to the late APC chairman in a statement released on Facebook on Monday, June 15, 2026, describing him as a respected statesman whose legacy would endure.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of the National Chairman of the All People’s Congress, Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray. Sierra Leone has lost a respected statesman and a great politician whose contributions to our nation’s democratic journey will never be forgotten,” President Bio said.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Sierra Leone, and the Sierra Leone People’s Party, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the APC, and all who mourn his demise. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Mansaray served in several senior government positions during the APC administration. He was elected to Parliament in 2002 while the APC was in opposition and represented the party until 2007, when it returned to power.
Following the APC’s electoral victory, he was appointed Minister of Labour, serving from 2007 to 2010, before being named Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, a position he held from 2010. In 2012, he was elected Deputy Leader of the APC, further cementing his standing within the party hierarchy.
A long-serving member of the APC, Mansaray was also a member of the party’s influential National Advisory Council, which comprises some of its most senior leaders. He was known as a close ally and confidant of former President Ernest Bai Koroma.
Beyond politics, Mansaray built a successful career in the insurance industry, serving for many years as an executive at the Sierra Leone National Insurance Company. His professional experience and political acumen earned him respect across party lines.
Born in Tonkolili District and raised in the capital, Freetown, Mansaray was a graduate of Fourah Bay College. He was a devout Muslim of Temne heritage and remained active in public life throughout his career.
News of his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, supporters, and citizens across the country, many remembering him for his dedication to public service and his commitment to the APC.
Details regarding the cause of death and funeral arrangements had not been officially announced at the time of publication.
His death marks the end of a distinguished political career that spanned decades and leaves a significant void within the APC and Sierra Leone’s political landscape.
