By Sallieu S. Kanu
Sierra Leone – March 30, 2026: The Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has urged political parties to embrace dialogue and cooperation as the nation prepares for future elections. Addressing party leaders and representatives, the Commissioner emphasized that the Commission’s role is to serve all Sierra Leoneans equally and to safeguard the credibility of the electoral process.
Commitment to Neutrality and Transparency
Reaffirming the Commission’s neutrality, the Chief Electoral Commissioner stressed that ECSL is not aligned to any political interest and does not determine outcomes.
“The voters determine the outcome of elections. The Commission only gives effect to that choice,” he said, underscoring that dialogue is not a concession but a responsibility.
He acknowledged recent tensions among stakeholders but emphasized that concerns raised by political parties are legitimate contributions to strengthening Sierra Leone’s democratic system.
Proposed Path Forward
The Commissioner outlined several measures to rebuild trust and enhance collaboration:
- Reinforcing Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) meetings through a standing Inter-Party Dialogue and Consultation Forum.
- Establishing joint technical working groups with party representatives on key reform and operational areas.
- Developing a shared electoral roadmap to 2028, incorporating both institutional priorities and stakeholder input.
- Strengthening communication channels to ensure timely, accurate, and transparent information flow.
- Reaffirming collective commitment to peaceful engagement and democratic participation.
Call for Unity of Purpose
The Commissioner urged political leaders to prioritize national interest over partisan divisions.
“Our democracy is strongest not when we agree on everything—but when we remain committed to working together despite our differences,” he said.
He added that Sierra Leoneans expect leadership and unity of purpose, not perfection or uniformity. The Commissioner called on all parties to ensure that the 2028 elections are not only credible but collectively owned.
Closing Appeal
In his closing remarks, the Chief Electoral Commissioner extended a hand of cooperation to all political parties, stressing that history will judge this period not by disagreements but by how they were resolved.
“Together, we can strengthen our democracy. Together, we can safeguard our peace. Together, we can uphold the will of the people of Sierra Leone,” he concluded.