By Foday Moriba Conteh
The National Commission for Democracy (NCD) has presented its 2025 budget request, seeking NLe 4,734,000 to effectively fulfill its mandate and support the country’s democratic framework. Established in 1994 and governed by the 1996 Act of Parliament, the NCD is tasked with promoting democracy, good governance, patriotism and nationalism in Sierra Leone. The proposed budget aligns with the Public Financial Management Act (PFMA) and aims to implement key objectives outlined in the Government’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024-2030).
In his presentation at the 2025 Budget Hearing, held on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the Ministry of Finance in Freetown, Rev. Gibrilla Kargbo, Communications and PR Director of the National Commission for Democracy (NCD), began by highlighting the NCD’s financial performance for 2023, noting that the Ministry of Finance approved NLe 3,095,500 for the fiscal year. However, the Commission only received NLe 1,800,000 as a subvention and an additional NLe 2,000,000 for election-related activities.
He further explained that the Commission also received donor support from International IDEA for key initiatives such as the development and validation of messages for the 2023 multi-tier elections and town hall meetings across the regional headquarter towns.
Regarding the NCD’s achievements in 2023, Rev. Gibrilla Kargbo highlighted several key accomplishments. These included commemorating the International Day of Democracy, fostering political dialogue and increasing the Commission’s visibility through town hall meetings, media engagements and educational outreach. The NCD also worked with over 1,600 participants from various communities to promote political tolerance and coexistence and it engaged in extensive voter education efforts across the country.
However, Rev. Gibrilla Kargbo pointed out several challenges faced by the Commission in 2023, including high levels of illiteracy, inadequate logistics and equipment, reduced donor support and the late release of funds. He also emphasized the need for a review of the existing 1996 Act governing the NCD to reflect modern trends.
For 2024, the NCD received NLe 3,700,000, with NLe 1,731,700 disbursed as of August 2024. Achievements for 2024 included the publication of the 2023 Annual Report, enhanced staff efficiency and ongoing work on the National State of Democracy Survey.
Looking ahead to the 2025-2027 fiscal years, Rev. Gibrilla Kargbo presented a proposed budget of NLe 4.7 million, with a salary grant of NLe 11.2 million. He also highlighted the NCD’s strengths and opportunities, including its statutory status, decentralization and continuous engagement with Government Ministries.
In alignment with the Government’s “Big Five” game changers, Rev. Gibrilla Kargbo emphasized the NCD’s focus on transforming the public service architecture and promoting democratic good governance for peace and national cohesion. Key interventions will include fostering public debates on national issues and collaborating with both governmental and non-governmental organizations to strengthen democratic governance in Sierra Leone.
Earlier, in her opening remarks, Marian Samu, Chairperson of the National Commission for Democracy (NCD), described the session as the beginning of crucial implementation efforts. “It is only when you discuss what you have done, how you have done it and why you did not achieve everything you set out to do that progress is made,” she noted.
Marian Samu expressed gratitude to the Government of Sierra Leone for its support of the Commission’s activities, particularly in providing resources for election-related initiatives. She also praised International IDEA for its assistance with other election-related programs.
She underscored the importance of continued Government support for the Commission’s programs, which are vital for fostering national unity, social cohesion and civic mindfulness.
Marian Samu emphasized that the NCD is committed to contributing to the success of the Government’s Big Five programs by addressing illiteracy and negative attitudes that have impeded the country’s development.
The ceremony concluded with remarks from Gbonie Conteh, Assistant Director of Budget at the Ministry of Finance. This was followed by comments and questions from representatives of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, civil society and other stakeholders.
