The remains of former All People’s Congress (APC) National Chairman Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray were brought to Sierra Leone’s Parliament on Monday, where lawmakers, political leaders, family members and supporters gathered to pay their final respects.
Hon. Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray served as a Member of Parliament from 2002 to 2007, representing the APC during the party’s years in opposition. Contemporary biographical records indicate that he represented the Western Area Rural District under the proportional representation system then in force.
Following the APC’s return to power in 2007, he was appointed Minister of Labour and Industrial Relations, a position he held until 2010, before later serving as Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources.
Members of Parliament from both the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition APC attended the solemn ceremony, which formed part of events leading to the burial of the veteran politician.
Mourners filed past the casket as tributes were paid to Mr Mansaray, who served as national chairman of the APC and was regarded as one of the party’s longstanding figures.
The lying-in-state at Parliament reflected the cross-party recognition of his role in Sierra Leone’s political life. Colleagues and supporters remembered him for his years of public service and his contribution to the country’s democratic process.
Mr. Mansaray’s death has prompted condolences from political leaders and party members, with many describing him as a respected statesman whose influence extended beyond partisan politics.
The parliamentary ceremony is among a series of activities organised to honour the late APC leader ahead of his final interment.
