In a solemn announcement, the All Peoples Congress (APC) conveyed deep sorrow as they sadly informed the nation about the passing of Comrade Ambassador Honourable Edward Mohamed Turay. The respected political figure, who had an illustrious career spanning several decades, peacefully departed in the United Kingdom on Sunday, 25th June 2023.
Comrade Ambassador Honourable Edward Mohamed Turay played a pivotal role within the APC, serving with unwavering dedication and distinction in various capacities. His journey within the party began as an ordinary member of parliament from 1986 to 1992 and then again from 2002 to 2007. His relentless commitment and expertise were acknowledged, leading him to assume vital roles such as the National Secretary-General, and he even ran as the Presidential Candidate in the 1996 Presidential Elections.
During his tenure as a prominent leader, Turay served as the Minority Leader of Parliament from 1996 to 2002 and later as the Majority Leader of Parliament from 2007 to 2009. His contributions extended beyond the domestic sphere, as he represented Sierra Leone on the international stage with honor and dignity as the High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Ireland, along with eight other European nations from 2010 to 2018.
The nation now prepares to bid farewell to this remarkable figure with a series of funeral arrangements as follows:
Thursday 20th July 2023: The Party Head Office will open the Book of Condolence at 12 pm, providing an opportunity for the public and party members to pay their respects.
Saturday 22nd July 2023: The mortal remains of Comrade Ambassador Honourable Edward Mohamed Turay will be repatriated from the United Kingdom.
Monday 24th July 2023: The body will lie in state at the Party Office, allowing mourners to come and pay their final respects from 10 am.
Tuesday 25th July 2023: A special Tributes Ceremony by the Judiciary will take place at the Law Courts Building, commemorating the legacy of the late statesman.
Thursday 27th July 2023: A Civic Laying Out will be conducted at the City Hall, Freetown, starting at 10 am.
Friday 28th July 2023: A Memorial Service will be held at the Winners Chapel in Freetown, providing an opportunity for friends, colleagues, and well-wishers to bid their final farewells.
Sunday 30th July 2023: The final farewell will culminate in the Burial Ceremony at Gbanti Kamaranka, Sanda in the North-Western Province, starting at 1 pm.