By Sallideu S. Kanu
Sierra Leone – April 2026 The National Election Watch (NEW) has successfully concluded its National Meeting on 28–29 April 2026, marking a significant milestone in its institutional journey with the election of new leadership.
The meeting, attended by 74 national delegates with a strong turnout of 68 participants (91.8%), underscored NEW’s commitment to democratic governance, accountability, and inclusive leadership.
Leadership Transition
Following a transparent and credible electoral process, Charles Keif-Kobai of Forward SL was elected Chairperson, securing 41 votes (60.2% of valid ballots). Regional leadership positions were also filled across the country:
- Southern Region: Hawa Kamanda (SLTU) – Coordinator; Janet K. Momoh (Forum for Muslim Women Sierra Leone) – Secretary
- Eastern Region: Patrick S. Adu (MRD) – Coordinator; Satta M. Senesie (DCI) – Secretary
- Northern Region: Mariama Thoronka (WOFHRAD) – Coordinator; Kalilu Bah (CGG) – Secretary
- Western Area: Bernadette French (CGG) – Coordinator; Valnora Edwin (AWLN) – Secretary
Institutional Strength
The National Meeting, NEW’s highest decision-making body, brought together outgoing and incoming district coordinators, secretaries, members of the Strategic Management Committee (SMC), and the Secretariat. Delegates reviewed and adopted key institutional documents, reinforcing NEW’s strong structures and its mission to promote electoral accountability.
Stakeholder Support
The opening ceremony was graced by representatives from the Office of National Security (ONS), Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), the Office of the Minority Leader in Parliament, the Deputy British High Commissioner, and International IDEA. They delivered goodwill messages reaffirming support for NEW’s role in strengthening democratic governance.
Funding and Partnerships
This orderly transition was made possible with funding support from the European Union in Sierra Leone through International IDEA, alongside partnerships with Truth Media Liberty TV Online UK, Irish Aid West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network, AYV News, the German Embassy in Freetown, and the Global Network of Domestic Election Monitors (GNDEM).
Looking Ahead
The smooth leadership transition reflects NEW’s resilience and institutional maturity, ensuring effective coordination across all regions as the coalition continues to champion transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in Sierra Leone’s democratic processes.