In a heartfelt audio broadcast, Deputy Minister of Sports, Lawrence Kai Mbayo, has issued a public apology to Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, President H.E. Julius Maada Bio, members of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), and the general public following recent accusations he made against the Vice President.
Minister Mbayo admitted that his remarks were made in a moment of frustration and regret, and he expressed sincere remorse for his actions. “I want to apologize to Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, President H.E. Julius Maada Bio, and all SLPP members who were upset with me. I acted out of hurt temper, as we have been through many challenges. Please forgive me,” Minister Mbayo said.
In the controversial video, the minister accused Vice President Jalloh of supporting Lebanese businessman Jiad Basma, who he claimed had unlawfully purchased a diamond. Minister Mbayo insinuated that the Vice President had facilitated the illegal transaction of the diamond. However, police investigations later clarified that the diamond was actually owned by a foreign businessman involved in mining operations in Kono District, contradicting the minister’s claims.
The remarks have been widely condemned by observers, with many perceiving them as an attempt to tarnish the reputation of Vice President Jalloh. Citizens have expressed concerns about the timing of the accusations, raising suspicions that the comments may have been deliberately aimed at undermining the Vice President’s public image.
The minister’s apology, while acknowledging his wrongdoing, is seen as a step toward reconciliation. It remains to be seen how the public and political figures will respond to this gesture and whether the incident will have lasting consequences for both Minister Mbayo and Vice President Jalloh.
