By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Thursday, June 5, 2025: His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has officially received the Independent Review Report on the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) and other Election Management Bodies (EMBs), calling for the full implementation of its recommendations to strengthen the country’s democratic framework.
The report, compiled by the Public Sector Reform Unit (PSRU) in collaboration with the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), highlights key challenges in Sierra Leone’s electoral system and proposes 85 actionable reforms to enhance transparency and efficiency in future elections.
President Bio, in his remarks at State House, expressed gratitude to a broad coalition of stakeholders—including civil society, media, youth and women’s organizations, traditional leaders, and political parties—for their contributions to the review. He emphasized national dialogue and inclusive governance as essential pillars of democracy.
“As President, I am not here to merely govern, I am here to resolve the deep-rooted challenges to our peace, democracy, and national cohesion,” he affirmed.
Reflecting on his own experiences contesting two national elections, he acknowledged democratic deficits in past electoral processes and reiterated his administration’s commitment to lasting reforms. He cited significant governance achievements—including abolishing the death penalty, advancing gender equality, and repealing restrictive laws—as part of broader democratic improvements.
The report aligns with the government’s Big Five Game Changers, particularly its Revamping of the Public Service Architecture initiative, said PSRU Director Sulaiman Phoray Musa. Among the key recommendations are staff training, improved remuneration, strengthened citizen engagement, and timely submission of observer reports.
The ECSL Chairperson, the Head of the EU Delegation to Sierra Leone, the UN Resident Coordinator, and National Elections Watch (NEW) all praised the institutionalization of electoral reviews and the Agreement for National Unity signed between the Government of Sierra Leone and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC).
The report was formally presented to President Bio by Dr. David M. Sengeh, Chief Minister and Chairman of the Steering Committee on the Implementation of the Tripartite Committee Report.
For Further Inquiries:
State House Media and Communications Unit
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