The phrase "apparent attempt" means it seems like someone is trying to do something, although it may not be confirmed or clearly obvious. Full definition
Calls for the EC to abandon the current voters» register and compile a new one has intensified in recent days, led by the Let My Vote Count Alliance, which, two weeks ago, embarked on a demonstration which led to bloody clashes with police after some of the demonstrators veered off the approved route in apparent attempt to head to the office of the EC. (ghanapoliticsonline.com)
Apparent attempts at civil conversation has failed. (nj.com)
There is a strong focus on Peter Mandelson with several emails citing apparent attempts by the then business secretary to usurp Miliband as foreign secretary. (totalpolitics.com)