His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has presided over the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), Mr. Edmond Sylvester Alpha, following his approval by Parliament.
The ceremony, held on Tuesday March 3, 2026 at State House in Freetown, marks a significant moment in the country’s democratic governance, as the new Commissioner formally assumes constitutional responsibility for overseeing the nation’s electoral processes.
Declaring the purpose of the ceremony, Secretary to the President, Baba Brima Fortune, informed the gathering that in accordance with Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, President Bio undertook consultations with the leadership of all registered political parties prior to making the appointment.
He disclosed that on 10 February 2026, fourteen (14) registered political parties were formally notified of the intended appointment, out of which twelve (12) submitted letters conveying their approval of Mr. Alpha’s nomination.
Mr. Fortune further confirmed that the nominee subsequently underwent parliamentary scrutiny and debate and was duly approved by Parliament, thereby fulfilling the constitutional requirements for his appointment and swearing-in.
After taking the oath of office to faithfully discharge his duties and uphold the Constitution, Mr. Alpha expressed gratitude to President Bio for the confidence reposed in him. He described his appointment as “a sacred contract with the people of Sierra Leone” and pledged to execute his mandate with independence, transparency, integrity, and inclusiveness.
“Our democracy thrives on the belief that every voice matters and every vote counts,” Mr. Alpha stated. He assured citizens, political parties, and development partners that his stewardship of the ECSL would be firmly guided by the Constitution and the legal frameworks governing elections in Sierra Leone.
He further committed to maintaining an open-door policy and fostering constructive engagement with political stakeholders, civil society organisations, and other partners to strengthen public confidence in the country’s electoral system.
In his congratulatory remarks, President Bio emphasized that the appointment was carried out strictly within the bounds of his constitutional authority. He noted that, unlike certain experiences he observed while serving in opposition, he ensured full compliance with the consultative provisions outlined in the Constitution.
The President described the office of the Chief Electoral Commissioner as one bearing immense national responsibility, underscoring the central role of the ECSL in safeguarding democracy and ensuring credible, transparent, and peaceful elections.
“This is not a mere appointment; it is a great responsibility,” President Bio stated, urging the new Chairman and Commissioners to serve with humility, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to Sierra Leone’s democratic ideals.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the independence of the ECSL, stressing that strong institutions remain the bedrock of sustainable democracy and good governance.
Reflecting on broader democratic reforms undertaken during his tenure, President Bio highlighted key legislative milestones, including the repeal of Part Five of the Public Order Act of 1965 and the abolition of the death penalty. He reiterated that such reforms demonstrate his government’s resolve to deepen democratic governance and expand civil liberties.
The President concluded by calling for sustained national dialogue among political actors and citizens alike, noting that inclusive engagement and respect for constitutional principles are essential for consolidating peace, unity, and democratic progress in Sierra Leone.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by senior government officials, Members of Parliament, representatives of political parties, members of the diplomatic corps, and other distinguished guests.
