By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone, Mohamed Kenewui Konneh, on the 3rd September 2022, marking the commencement of national voters registration exercise, stated that registration will commence as scheduled on Saturday the 3rd.September in readiness for 24 June 2023 Presidential, Parliamentary and Local Council elections.
He revealed that the voter registration process will be in two phases with each phase taking 15 days and at every phase, the designated registration centers will be opened at 07 a.m. and closed at 5 p.m. across the country in every constituency and ward.
The Chief Electoral Commissioner further disclosed that the first phase will start on 3rd September and ends on 17th September adding how the Commission will need two days to mobilize equipment and staff across the country to start the 2nd phase on the 20th September which will end on the 4th October 2022.
“I encourage every eligible Sierra Leonean including those who will be 18 years old on 24th June 2023 to turn out in your numbers and present yourself at the registration center where you intend to vote and update your details,” he appealed to Sierra Leoneans.
Mohamed Kenewui Konneh stated that documents required for registration are a valid Sierra Leonean passport, previous Voter ID card, a National ID card, certificate of registration from NCRA, or Sierra Leonean birth certificate.
He warned all those who intend to do or encourage double or underage registration not to attempt because they would be caught and prosecuted adding that the Commission is working in collaboration with the Security sector to ensure the safety of lives and property.
The ECSL Chairman also pointed out that the Commission is also working with EMBs, local and international partners to ensure best practices and credibility of the process.
He said they will continue to work within the legal framework to ensure that citizens have unhindered access to the registration centers and be registered.
“The Commission has established a Situation room at the ECSL Headquarters to respond to public concerns during this period,” he intimated maintaining that the public can call on a toll-free number 838 on Africell, Orange and Qcell networks.
He ended up thanking all for contributing toward a peaceful voter registration process for the June 2023 multi- tier elections.
