The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has released an exhaustive timetable detailing the intricate roadmap for the multi-tiered elections scheduled for June 2023.
The comprehensive schedule encompasses various crucial stages, ranging from the printing of voter identification cards to the post-election procedures. Here's a thorough breakdown of the timetable:
Printing and Distribution of Voter ID Cards (2nd January–3rd February, 2023):
The electoral process kicks off with the printing of voter identification cards, a vital step in ensuring the accuracy and legitimacy of the voting process. This phase extends from January 2 to February 3, 2023.
Training of Polling Staff and Material Transportation (15 February 2023–24 June 2023):
A significant portion of the timetable is dedicated to the training of polling staff and the transportation of election materials. From February 15 to 21, training sessions for polling staff are conducted, followed by the delivery of election materials from district to constituency storage facilities between February 22 and 24.
Nationwide Distribution of ID Cards (27th February to 10th March, 2023):
Ensuring accessibility and availability, the ECSL outlines the distribution of ID cards nationwide from February 27 to March 10, 2023.
Nomination Processes and Objection Period (15th March–1st April, 2023):
March 15 to March 31 is dedicated to the preparation for nomination processes, including stakeholder meetings. The actual nomination of candidates for president, OMP, and local council elections takes place from April 4 to April 11, 2023. Simultaneously, an objection period from April 5 to 14 allows for the filing of objections against the nominated candidates.
Decision on Objections and Appeals (16th–20th April, 2023):
The ECSL handles the decision on all objections between April 16 and 17, 2023. An appeal against the objection decision is slated for April 17, followed by the decision on appeals on April 20, 2023.
Publication of Final List of Nominated Candidates (20th April–11th May, 2023):
The final list of nominated candidates for both presidential and local council elections is set to be published on April 20, 2023, and May 11, 2023, respectively.
Campaign Kick-off and Stakeholder Meeting (May 22– 22, 2023):
The campaign period, a crucial phase in reaching out to voters, spans from May 22 to June 22, 2023. A national stakeholder meeting is scheduled for May 20, 2023, to establish a campaign timeline.
Logistics and Operations (29th May–23rd June, 2023):
Various logistics and operational aspects, such as parking and sorting of non-sensitive materials, delivery of election materials, and training of polling staff, are meticulously outlined between May 29 and June 23, 2023.
Polling Day and Post-Election Procedures (24th June–30th June, 2023):
The culmination of the electoral process is the polling day on June 24, 2023, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Subsequent activities include the retrieval of polling materials (June 24–25, 2023) and the payment of polling staff (June 27–30, 2023).
The ECSL's detailed timetable provides an insightful overview of the meticulous planning and execution required for a smooth and transparent electoral process.
As Sierra Leone gears up for these elections, adherence to this comprehensive schedule is crucial for upholding the democratic principles integral to the nation's governance. Stay tuned for more updates on Sierra Leone's electoral journey as the nation moves closer to this significant democratic event.