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Tribal Heads in Western Area Congratulate President Bio & VP Jalloh on their Re-Election

Sixteen Tribal Heads drawn from the Western Area Rural and Urban, on the 30th June, 2023 ,  congratulated His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio and his Vice President, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh at State House on their re-election further expressing hope for the successful outcome of their agenda.

Chairman of the Council of Tribal Heads in the Western Area, Sahr Orlando Gbekie, said they were happy to meet and congratulate the President and his Vice, noting that their re-election did not come as a surprise to them because they really campaigned all over the country.

He expressed hope that the President and his Government would continue to do a lot more positive things and thanked him for adding respectability to their authorities in their different localities.

“ His Excellency, it was during your first term in office that we had our dignity restored. Your Government made sure all of us were paid monthly wages, much more consistent than the stipends we received as local leaders before your coming to power. Also, thanks to your foresight, we are proud to have a representative at the city council,” he said.

He paid tribute to the establishment of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, which he said they were happy to have worked with since its establishment further pledging the support of tribal heads to the agenda of the Government, adding that they would serve as agents of peace in their different localities.

President Bio, in his statement, welcomed the tribal heads and stated that he was happy that they came to congratulate him further reminding them that the elections were over and that he was now focused on bringing development to the country and its people.

He called on the tribal heads to ensure peace reigns in their localities while admonishing them to be proactive in settling disputes so as to sustain the peace and build on the long history of communal harmony.

President Bio also noted that as a Government they were doing their own part to enforce the rule of law in order to keep the peace, notwithstanding the challenges including the difference in social and political orientations.

He assured them that he would continue to fly the country’s flag higher internationally because of the efforts he had made to showcase the positive sides of the country, noting that that had led to the overwhelming support from other countries when Sierra Leone won as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.

50/50 Group Demands Action Against Cyber-Bullying Targeting Women in Power & Influence

By Alpha Good Kamara

An urgent call was issued by the 50/50 Group of Sierra Leone to combat cyber bullying against female political leaders and election observers in the country, especially following the recently held elections on June 24th.

The group, which is an organization dedicated to promoting gender parity in political and public life, expressed its concern about the increase in cyber-attacks and personalized threats targeting women in positions of power and influence.

The  50/50 Group of Sierra Leone believes such type of harmful behavior not only undermines the contributions made by these women, but can also deter others from participating in politics, thereby limiting their representation and the benefits of diverse and inclusive governance.

In their statement, the 50/50 Group urged the general public to embrace respectful dialogue, stating that differing views and opinions can be expressed through constructive conversations rather than resorting to threats and bullying. They emphasized that the aftermath of elections should be seen as an opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and democratic growth, rather than a time for personal attacks.

They also called on citizens to promptly report any instances of cyber bullying or online harassment they come across, emphasizing the importance of making social media platforms and online forums spaces of positive engagement.

In addition to that, the group said it is encouraging the people of Sierra Leone to celebrate the contributions of women in politics and elections, and to advocate for greater representation of women in leadership positions. They believe that a thriving democracy is dependent on the active participation and engagement of all citizens, regardless of gender.

The call ended with a plea to all Sierra Leoneans, both within and outside the country, to demonstrate the tolerance, calm, and respectful behavior for which they are known, and to come together to address the challenges facing their nation in order to build a peaceful Sierra Leone.

The 50/50 Group’s mission includes increasing the level of female participation in politics and public life, ensuring equivalence in local councils, parliament, cabinet, and other state decision-making institutions, and providing leadership training and literacy classes for women throughout the country.

CSOs Call for Openness and Inclusiveness in Governance

By Foday Moriba Conteh

During a well-attended one-day National CSOs Consultation Meeting held on Thursday 29th June, 2023 at the Freetown City Auditorium on Wallace Johnson Street in Freetown organized by the Center for Accountability and Rule of Law (CARL-SL), the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International-CHRDI and the Institute of Governance Reform (IGR) and other civil society organizations, a consortium of Civil Society Organisations in Sierra Leone urged members of the public to remain calm and called for openness and inclusiveness in governance as they work with various actors to address certain challenges which they believe could threaten the peace and stability of the nation.

Reading the press statement on behalf of the consortium, to members of the press, the Chairperson for Civil Society Organization Eastern Region, Augustine Sannoh,  said following the announcement of the June 24th, 2023, Presidential election results and rejection of same by the main opposition All People’s Congress, they as Civil Society Organizations drawn from districts across Sierra Leone met to discuss the implications of the current situation for peace and stability of which CSOs presented eight major challenges facing the country and urged state institutions, political parties, and development partners to work cooperatively and address them.

He continued by saying that the issues highlighted include misuse of social media by political actors and their surrogates through which hate and inciting messages are disseminated, including making calls for illegal demonstrations which they underscored constitutes a big threat to stability adding that the fear that resources may not be fairly distributed by the incoming Government continues to fuel election denial, hate, and suspicion.

The consortium noted that Sierra Leone has become increasingly polarized over state resources, denial of election results by political parties, even where there is limited, or no evidence of widespread election fraud creating the wrong impression to supporters about elections outcome and contributes to division and instability in the post-election context.

It also disclosed intolerance among party supporters in households, offices, and communities stating how such is contributing to widespread safety and security concerns, unhealthy confrontation and community instability and disputes, complaints and concerns by political parties of unfairness and non- independence of democratic institutions, especially the police.

According to them, those complaints continue to deepen the atmosphere of suspicion before, during and after election, delays by the ECSL in responding to opposition demands for transparency in the electoral process contributing to deepening mistrust and chaos in the electoral process and results, insightful utterances by political leaders promoting hate and division among citizens etc.

These CSOs concluded by urging members of the public to remain calm and called for openness and inclusiveness in governance as they work with various actors to address those challenges.

 

President Julius Maada Bio Extends Hand of Fellowship to Dr. Samura Kamara Opposition in Re-election Victory

FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE – President Julius Maada Bio expressed his gratitude and humility after being re-elected as the President of Sierra Leone in the 2023 presidential elections. In his acceptance address, President Bio thanked the citizens for their overwhelming support and trust, pledging to continue the transformational work that began in 2018.

The President acknowledged the peaceful and transparent electoral process, which reflected the will of the people. He emphasized the importance of democratic values and the peaceful conduct of elections, positioning Sierra Leone as a model for young democracies.

President Bio highlighted the achievements of his first term, despite global economic challenges, and outlined his priorities for the next five years. These priorities include food security, human capital development, job creation for the youth, revamping the public service, and technological and infrastructural development.

The President expressed his gratitude to his party, the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), and all those who supported him during the campaign. He called for unity among political party leaders, civil society organizations, and religious and traditional leaders to work together for the progress and prosperity of Sierra Leone.

President Bio extended a hand of fellowship to the opposition leader, Dr. Samura Kamara, urging him to join in the nation-building process. He emphasized the need for all Sierra Leoneans to come together as one united family, setting aside political differences for the betterment of the country.

The President commended the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) for conducting a free, fair, transparent, and credible election. He also thanked local and international observer missions, the media, and development partners for their contributions to the democratic process.

In conclusion, President Bio quoted Abraham Lincoln, encouraging Sierra Leoneans to create the future they desire and deserve for their nation. He called on all citizens to join him in building a prosperous Sierra Leone, emphasizing the importance of peace, law-abiding behavior, and unity.

The President ended his address by invoking God’s blessings upon Sierra Leone and its people.

EU EOM & The Carter Center Urge ECSL to Publish Disaggregated Results Data

By Abubakarr Harding

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to Sierra Leone and the Carter Center have both called on the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) to publish the results of the June, 24, 2023 Presidential Election.

In a statement released by the EU EOM, dated 28th June, 2023, it stated that it has called on the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) to promptly publish disaggregated results data at the polling station level, a move which the election observer body said is aimed at ensuring transparency and public scrutiny of the ongoing electoral process.

The EU EOM continued that in a Preliminary Statement released on 26 June, it expressed concerns over the lack of transparency in the reception of sensitive materials and the early stages of tabulation in regional tally centers.

“The observers were unable to effectively verify the result forms for the presidential election, and important information regarding corrections and cancellations of polling station results was not shared with party agents and citizen observers,” the EU EOM highlighted adding how the absence of disaggregated results data at the polling station level has compromised the transparency of the results management process.

According to the Observation Mission it has also identified statistical inconsistencies in the Presidential results published by the ECSL on 26 and 27 June underscoring how those discrepancies include variations in the number of average valid votes per polling station, ranging from a decrease of 75% in Karene to an increase of 31% in Kono.

The EU EOM further disclosed that additionally, the results indicate an unusually low number of invalid ballots nationwide (0.4%) and exceptionally high turnout in certain districts, exceeding 95% in three districts and 90% in two others also maintaining how credible and impartial citizen observers have also noted those statistical inconsistencies.

Proffering a recommendation to address those concerns and ease tensions, the EU EOM has called on the ECSL to promptly publish disaggregated results data per polling station, along with copies of the results forms saying such would allow for public scrutiny of the results and ensure transparency and certainty in the electoral process.

The Observation Mission further  urged all stakeholders to peacefully address their grievances through dialogue and the prescribed legal mechanisms stressing how it will continue to observe the tabulation of results and post-election developments concluding by promising to present its final report, including recommendations for improving the electoral framework, in the coming months.

On the part of The Carter Center, in a release dated 28th June, 2023 it stated how in a follow-up to a preliminary statement issued on the 27th June, 2023 on the Sierra Leone elections, it once again strongly urges the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) to publish election results by polling station so that parties and observers can cross-verify data, in accordance with international best practice.

The entity stressed that such is particularly important considering the report from National Election Watch (NEW) indicating that the results from NEW’s verification exercise differ from the ECSL results, which show both significantly higher turnout and recorded votes for the SLPP presidential candidate.

According to The Carter Center, it is familiar with and has great confidence in NEW’s rigorous observation and verification methodology, and therefore is concerned that the ECSL’s results do not correspond with NEW’s data.

It expressed the conviction that publishing detailed Polling Station results is critical to ensuring that the final results announced by the ECSL genuinely reflect the will of the people as expressed on election day.

“This is especially true given that The Carter Center and other observers have expressed strong concerns regarding the lack of transparency during the tabulation process and have directly observed instances of serious irregularities at tabulation centers that call the integrity of the results into question,” it stated.

Maintaining that it continues to observe the tabulation process across the country, The Carter Center reiterates its recommendation that results from any ballot boxes that were opened in violation of procedure and international best practice should be set aside for additional scrutiny and should not be included in the final results until a formal, transparent, and inclusive review can establish whether they can be considered credible concluding that lacking that, the credibility of the results is in question.

Sierra Leoneans Should Embrace Unity & Patriotism for a Stronger Nation

By Braima M. Koroma

In the aftermath of the recent election, Sierra Leone stands at a crucial crossroads where unity and patriotism are paramount for the nation’s progress. While the democratic process may have evoked diverse emotions and opinions among citizens, it is imperative that we come together to support the elected leader and work collectively towards building a prosperous Sierra Leone. True patriotism transcends personal candidate preferences and party affiliations, demanding that we accept the will of the people and actively contribute to the growth and development of our beloved country.

Sierra Leone is not merely a geographical entity; it is a nation woven together by shared heritage, culture, and aspirations. Its strength lies in the concerted efforts of its people, and regardless of political power, our progress and success hinge on unity and collaboration. It is time to transcend partisan divisions and work towards a common vision of a prosperous and inclusive Sierra Leone.

Embracing change is an integral part of any democratic process. While disappointment and disagreement may arise, we must recognize that change brings new opportunities for growth and improvement. Instead of fixating on the outcome of the election, let us redirect our focus towards how we can positively contribute to society. This can be achieved through active participation in our communities, supporting local initiatives, and engaging in constructive dialogue. By coming together and working towards a shared goal, we can shape the future of our nation.

Building a stronger Sierra Leone necessitates the active involvement of every citizen. Patriotism extends beyond mere symbols or rhetoric; it requires taking ownership of our communities and actively participating in civic duties. Holding elected officials accountable, promoting transparency, and advocating for good governance are crucial steps towards a prosperous nation. By fostering a culture of unity, inclusivity, and patriotism, we can create an environment where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the progress of Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone is a country blessed with diversity, culture, and untapped potential. It is this very diversity that fortifies our nation. By embracing our differences and working towards a common vision, we can harness the collective power of our people to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable development. Prioritizing improvements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and creating economic opportunities for all should be at the forefront of our national agenda.

As we embark on this journey of unity and patriotism, it is crucial to remember that change begins with each individual. Treating one another with respect, empathy, and understanding is paramount. Sierra Leone must foster a culture of inclusivity, where every voice is heard and valued. By doing so, we can build strong institutions, promote good governance, and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.

Sierra Leone’s strength lies in our unity and collective patriotism. Irrespective of our political affiliations, we must unite in support of the elected leader and work together towards a common goal of building a prosperous nation. Sierra Leone is not confined to the boundaries of political divisions; it is a nation defined by the shared aspirations and efforts of its people. As we move forward, let us prioritize the welfare of our fellow Sierra Leoneans. This means addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and social injustice. We must work towards creating an inclusive society where every individual has access to basic necessities, equal opportunities, and a voice in decision-making processes. By promoting social justice and equality, Sierra Leone can build a society that is fair and just for all its citizens.

In this journey towards a stronger Sierra Leone, challenges may arise, and setbacks may occur. However, it is important to remain resilient and determined. Let us learn from our past experiences, draw inspiration from our history, and strive for a better future. Together, we can overcome obstacles and build a nation that we can be proud to call home.

Sierra Leone has great potential, and its citizens are its greatest asset. By embracing unity, patriotism, and a shared vision, we can create a brighter and more prosperous future for all. Let us work hand in hand, across political, regional, and social divides, to build a Sierra Leone that is inclusive, resilient, and a shining example of what can be achieved when a nation stands united.

Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh Sworn In as Second Term as Vice President

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a snap but epoch making event that took place at State House on , Thursday 29th June, 2023, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh  officially took the Oath of Office as the Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone marking his second term to occupy such a covetous position.

The significant occasion was graced by the presence of His Excellency President Rtd Brig Julius Maada Bio, who personally administered the oath to Dr. Jalloh, the Chief Justice, the Speaker of Parliament, the ECOWAS Speaker, the Chief Justice, Ministers, family members and other public officials.

After swearing to the oath, the Honourable Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, in a brief statement, first and foremost thanked God for the day and for  a successful election outcome and in particular to His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio for the confidence reposed in him over the past five years.

He continued by congratulating President Bio for his extraordinary leadership and mentorship furthering that on behalf of colleague Ministers they are proud of him and his achievements also maintaining that Sierra Leone is also proud of him.

The Vice President continued that, on behalf of the SLPP, they are proud of his amazing campaign that served as a source of inspiration and  for demonstrating utmost dedication which he said is unrivalled in the history of the party.

He reaffirmed his commitment to be supportive as the President embarks on another amazing five years in embarking on the implementation of his manifesto commitments.

It must be regarded that it is no hidden secret that Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, was the vibrant initiator as well as the supportive driving force behind several critical initiatives geared towards changing the country’s socio-economic trajectory and at advancing the nation’s progress by fostering sustainable development during the first tenure of the Bio Led Government.

Worthy of note, also, is that during his first term as Vice President, Dr Juldeh Jalloh was instrumental in spearheading transformative projects across various sectors and his astute leadership combined with unwavering commitment to public service earned him widespread recognition and respect.

Under his watch and by providing support to President Julius Maada Bio, Sierra Leone  witnessed notable advancements in healthcare as he championed efforts to strengthen the country’s healthcare system, including the establishment of modern medical facilities, improvement of healthcare infrastructure, and the implementation of innovative healthcare policies to enhance access and quality of care for all citizens.

He has always been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at bolstering Sierra Leone’s economic growth and attracting foreign investment.

VP Juldeh Jalloh’s strategic partnerships and practicable economic policies played a pivotal role in promoting trade, creating employment opportunities, and fostering entrepreneurship within the country.

He prioritized educational reforms out of the realization of  the significance of education as the cornerstone of national development and has actively supported initiatives to enhance educational infrastructure, improve curriculum standards, and provide scholarships and educational resources to empower the youth and equip them with the skills needed for a prosperous future.

As a vocal advocate for environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation he has championed eco-friendly practices, promoted renewable energy sources, and led campaigns to raise awareness about environmental conservation and the preservation of Sierra Leone’s natural resources.

The relationship between the President and Vice President is very symbiotic and through his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication, the Vice President Juldeh Jalloh is driving Sierra Leone’s progress towards becoming a prosperous and sustainable nation.

AYV & ECSL Conclude Cypher Uncensored & Hit the Street 2023

By Foday Moriba Conteh

In an effort to promote peaceful elections, which was slated to take place  on 24th June, 2023, the Africa Young Voices (AYV) Media Empire in partnership with the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has on Thursday 22nd June, 2023 hosted the Grand Finale of the Cypher Uncensored Rap Music Contest Special Edition and AYV Hit the Street Dance Contest as part of their Non-Violence Campaign in which young rappers nationwide participated to promote peace and foster talent development. The grand finale was held at the Sports Zone on Lumley Beach Road in Freetown and was witnessed by many Sierra Leoneans, who from their facial expressions, were thrilled by the masterpiece rap and dance contest during which contestants expressed extraordinary talents.

While the competition was becoming hot, the Chief Executive Officer of the AYV, Amb. Anthony Navo Jr. and the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh took the microphone in turn and lyrically preached peace, free, fair and non-violent messages in the form of rap music.

Thrilling the mammoth crowd of happily cheering spectators who witnessed the friendly rap battle between the two new rappers in town, Amb. Navo Jr focused his rap message on “Saful Elections”, where he encouraged Sierra Leoneans to “go out Saful, vote Saful, go home Saful, rest Saful and wait for the result from EC-SL Saful…” among other lyrics geared towards preaching and promoting peaceful elections.

Like Amb. Navo, his co-rapper, Minister Dr. Sengeh also preached peace through his rap lyrics and encouraged all to go out and vote peaceful and return home peacefully.

Prior to the Grand Finale, the Cypher and EC-SL team have been to different districts preaching peace before the elections.

These past months, the show has had qualifiers from various districts across Sierra Leone.

For the Cypher category 50 million old Leones (50 thousand new Leones) was divided between the three winners of the Cypher competition of which the winner received the sum of 30,000 New Leones plus sponsorship and brand Ambassador deals, the 1st runner up received 15,000 New Leones and the 2nd Runner up received the sum of 5,000 New Leones.

In the Cypher, 8 rappers contested in the grand finale which includes Tello, Hugo Boss, Nazawise, RTM, OG Too Sweet, CG Mayboy, Breenard and Idea.

After the rap battle between these contestants Lamin Conteh stage name Tello bagged the first position and was awarded 30,000 New Leones, Joshua K. Bockarie, stage name OG 2 Sweet, bagged the second position and was awarded 15,000 New Leones and Ishamail B. Kamara with stage name CG MayBoy bagged the third position and was awarded 5,000 New Leones.

For the Hit the Street competition 30,000 New Leones was divided between the winners of which Lumley Best Dancers took the first position, RDC Dancers took the second position and B2K dancers took the third position.

The programme was aimed at promoting inclusivity in the electoral processes by promoting citizens’ engagement, enhancing information sharing and information integrity by working with a range of stakeholders, including young people through rap music.

In a nutshell, AYV and EC-SL joined forces to support efforts to mitigate electoral violence including violence against young people and contribute to the promotion of a peaceful environment in Sierra Leone before, during and after the 2023 elections.

In a statement delivered by the Chief Executive Officer of the AYV, Amb Anthony Navo Jr he stated how it was a fantastic event with some powerful lyrics. He extended thanks to the Electoral Commission (EC-SL) for the partnership with AYV in organizing the programme, which he said was an effort to promote peaceful elections on 24th June, 2023

Amb Anthony Navo Jr furthered that it was also a great pleasure to have his brother – the youth-friendly Education Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh – as they  both took part in a friendly rap battle, with lyrics of peace, free, fair and non-violent messages adding how the AYV Cypher and EC-SL team have visited different districts across the country promoting peace and national cohesion.

He ended up congratulating the winner who took home 50 million old Leones and a brand Ambassador deal and called on all to continue to engage and empower young people.

Political Intimidation APC Constituency Chairman in Bo City Flees for his Life

By Yusufu S. Bangura

Amidu Katta, Chairman of main opposition All Peoples Congress (APC) in Bo District has said that many of his party supporters in Bo District have been forced to relocate to other districts and other unknown locations due to political intimidation and death threats by members of the ruling party the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).

He said many APC supporters and members were physically attacked before, during, and after the highly disputed June 2023 election that saw President Julius Maada Bio re-elected for the second term.

Bo District is located in the Southern Province of Sierra Leone, one of the major political strongholds of the ruling SLPP.

“Politics in this part of the country is very scary. There’s a common notion that every resident in the District must belong to the SLPP or support the Party during elections.

“Many of our supporters have fled this District in fear of their lives,” he said.

He recalled how one popular youth and a constituency chairman of the APC in Bo City, Mohamed Kargbo, was almost killed by SLPP thugs, forcing him to flee from the District “Until now, nobody knows his whereabouts, whether he is dead or alive.

The only crime he committed was being popular and being an opposition party figure. The District Chairman of the ruling party didn’t want to see him exist, Katta said.

He claimed he is aware that the District Council Chairman of the SLPP Mohamed Elogima Kendekpa Allie had approached Kargbo several times, urging him to join his Party, but Kargbo declined his request and as a result, he has been subjected to physical, verbal attacks and death threats by several thugs of the Party.

According to Katta, on the 19th of June, while having a meeting at their APC party office in Bo, Kargbo was reliably informed that some thugs had been sent to attack, beat, and kill him.

“He shared that information with us, and immediately I advised him and everyone to leave the building, but were caught up by the thugs who attacked and set our party office on fire,” he said.

He said the next day he advised Kargbo to run for his life and asked him to travel to Freetown and stay in the APC Party Headquarters for the time being, noting that but even in Freetown Kargbo was targeted. .

Again whilst at the party headquarters, Kargbo also participated in a demonstration calling on the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone to release the disaggregated voters’ data of the June 2023 election when some security personnel attacked and fired life rounds and tear gas canisters and action which put his life in more jeopardy.

“Since the incident at the APC Party Office, in Freetown, I have not set eyes or heard from Kargbo, and I don’t know his whereabouts. Just two days ago, when I learned that the police in Freetown had issued a warrant of arrest for him,” he narrated.

However, Mohamed Elogima Kendekpa Allie did not respond to the allegations against him despite all efforts by the Calabash Newspaper to get his side of the story.

Over the years, both local and international civil society organisations including Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) have strongly slammed the rising spate of political violence and intimidation in the country before, during and after the just concluded general elections.

There have been several reports of political intimidation and violence against the opposition APC after President Rtd Brigadier Julius Maada Bio was announced winner of the highly disputed June 24 2023 presidential election

The pre-election period saw a dangerous escalation of political tensions, with the government’s security forces engaging in violent attacks on opposition politicians and their supporters, which resulted in the killing of a nurse, Hawa Dumbuya, 64 at the opposition Party office.

She was shot in the head at the APC Party Headquarter after police officers and the presidential guard surrounded the building during a post-election press conference.

The Chief Executive Officer of (CHRDI) Abdul M. Fatoma, described the 2023 election in Sierra Leone as one that brought the country close to widespread anarchy, chaos and instability, as the government’s security forces embarked on an orgy of violent attacks on opposition politicians and their supporters.

Commonwealth, ECOWAS & AU Election Observers Impressed

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

A joint press conference was convened on Monday 26th June 2023 in Freetown, Sierra Leone at the Bintumani Conference Center by the Commonwealth, Economic Commission of West Africa (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU).

Representatives of the three international organizations  were the Chairperson, Commonwealth Election Observer Mission to Sierra Leone, H.E Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; former Vice President of Nigeria, H.E Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Head of ECOWAS Election Observer Mission to Sierra Leone and Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, H. E. Hailemariam Desalegn.

In his statement, H.E Prof Yemi Osinbajo intimated that: “We were impressed by the significant turn-out of voters and the largely peaceful conduct of elections, a testimony to the will of the people to consolidate the democratic gains of Sierra Leone.”

He maintained that the Commonwealth is honoured to have been invited by the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone to observe the elections furthering how the Commonwealth family continues to stand in solidarity with Sierra Leone, noting that the elections are the first to be held against a background of some significant changes, including, among others, the introduction of the District Block Proportional Representation System, gender quotas for nomination of candidates, and a shortened period in which election petitions should be resolved.

H.E Prof Yemi Osinbajo stated that on 22nd June, they deployed their teams across the country to observe the electoral environment to gain a comprehensive picture of pre-election day preparations.

“Prior to our deployment to the regions, we were briefed in Freetown by various stakeholders, including the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone; presidential and mayoral candidates and representatives of political parties; media professionals; the Independent Media Commission; youth organizations; women forums; representatives of persons with disabilities; security agencies; Commonwealth High Commissioners; the Judiciary; the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone; the Sierra Leone Bar Association; the Chamber of Commerce; the Sierra Leone Labour Congress; and various civil society organizations. We also established working relationships and exchanged information with other international observers as well as local citizen observer groups,” he noted.

He revealed that among their key findings while they commend the ECSL for managing a largely peaceful election day; they noted reported challenges with respect to communication, transparency and the level of trust in the electoral commission and other key state institutions which is key to the electoral process, such as the Judiciary.

He lamented, however,that unfortunately there were isolated critical incidents, including reported skirmishes, police arrests, attack on polling officials and political party agents and harassment of police officers.

On the part of H.E Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Head of ECOWAS Election Observer Mission to Sierra Leone, he pointed out  amongst his recommendations that, “the purpose of the ECOWAS-African Union pre-electoral fact-finding mission was to assess the state of preparedness of the election management body and other critical stakeholders”.

In his recommendations, H.E Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas maintained that, “the mission however expresses regret that major political parties pre-empted the ECSL by rushing to announce their “victory” in the polls before the official announcement by the ECSL.” He added  that the elections were competitive.

In a similar fashion, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, H. E. Hailemariam Desalegn, in his recommendations after observing Sierra Leone’s 24th June, 2023 multi-tier elections, noted that, “the Government should put in place measures to ensure the peace and stability of the country to safeguard the security of citizens. He added that the ECSL should adopt continuous improvement and transparency in engaging stakeholders to avoid mistrust and enhance confidence in the electoral process.

Furthermore in his recommendations, he stated that, the ECSL should also provide the gazetted list of candidates before official campaigns to allow them sufficient time to campaign.

He made several other recommendations in addition to “political parties should refrain from violence, hate speech and any other acts that could undermine the stability of the country.”

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