By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, July 15, 2025 — In a historic move aimed at revitalizing leadership and unity within Sierra Leone’s film industry, the Sierra Leone Film Council (SLFC) has officially kicked off the electoral process for its long-anticipated presidential elections.
At a press conference held at 5 Dundas Street, Freetown, the SLFC Election Committee unveiled a comprehensive electoral roadmap and set of guidelines designed to usher in a new era of transparency, professionalism, and democratic governance. The five-member Election Committee—selected from diverse regions of the country—presented the timeline despite logistical challenges that prevented some members from attending in person.
“This is our season,” says Chairlady Ishata Kamara
SLFC Election Committee Chairlady, Ishata Bintu Kamara, described the launch as a “turning point” for Sierra Leone’s film industry. In her impassioned address, Kamara stated, “This is our season—to come together as creatives, stand firm, and shape a legacy for the generations yet unborn.” She emphasized that the reform process required careful planning, dismissing earlier expectations of a quick two-month turnaround.
Kamara shared a detailed three-month electoral calendar designed to uphold the integrity of the process:
Electoral Roadmap
July – Preparation Phase
– 15–25 July: Submission and verification of delegate lists
– 16–20 July: Nomination of presidential candidates
– 26–28 July: Announcement of qualified candidates
– 28–30 July: Candidate engagement and signing of peace pledge
August – Campaign Phase
– 1–25 August: Campaign activities, debates, and manifesto presentations
– 5–25 August: Voter education and final delegate list distribution
– 30 August: Election Day – voting, counting, and results announcement
September – Transition Phase
– 6 September: Swearing-in ceremony for newly elected president
– 7–10 September: Post-election review and publication of final reports
Kamara appealed for civility and cooperation throughout the process. “If bike riders and motor drivers have organized unions, why not us—the filmmakers and creative minds of Sierra Leone?” she urged.
Committee Affirms Integrity and Transparency
Committee member Jeremiah Koroma provided insight into the selection process of the Election Committee, emphasizing that each member was carefully vetted based on their professional achievements and dedication to the creative sector. “We were selected based on our integrity, professionalism, and commitment to building an industry that can stand the test of time,” Koroma said.
He added that no committee members were involved in past disputes within the film industry, underscoring their neutrality and shared mandate to deliver a transparent and credible electoral process. “This is a credible and transparent body. None of us are part of any past wrangling. We are here to ensure a peaceful, fair, and democratic election,” he concluded.
A New Chapter Begins
With the electoral process officially underway, candidates are expected to commence their campaigns immediately. The SLFC’s commitment to democratic principles and industry reform signals a promising future for Sierra Leone’s filmmakers—one anchored in unity, vision, and a renewed sense of purpose.