Dr. Richard Conteh criticizes ECSL for rejecting the APC's request for clarification on the results of the 2023 presidential election.
Dr.
Richard Conteh, a key figure in the All-People’s Congress (APC), has voiced his
strong disappointment over the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL)
refusing to clarify the analysis of the 2023 presidential election results
requested by the APC. This refusal has sparked significant concerns regarding
the transparency and accountability of Sierra Leone’s electoral process.
Dr.
Conteh stated, "It’s deeply concerning that the ECSL is intentionally
ignoring the APC’s request for clarification on the 2023 presidential results
analysis. Transparency and accountability are vital for democracy. We urge ECSL
to engage in constructive dialogue and provide the necessary clarifications to
uphold the integrity of our electoral process."
A letter from the ECSL, dated June 12, 2024, acknowledged the receipt of the APC’s letter, signed by Dr. Kaifala Marah, Dr. Richard Conteh, Ambassador Dr. Alimamy P. Koroma, Boniface Sidikie Kamara, Bernadette Kargbo, Prince Tholley, and David Fornah.
The Commission noted the letter did not comply with
administrative procedures outlined in the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the
Cross-Party Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review.
However, it mentioned prior correspondence and meetings, including face-to-face
discussions on May 28, 2024, where related issues were reportedly addressed.
Dr. Conteh’s remarks reflect broader concerns within the APC regarding the ECSL’s handling of the electoral process. The APC argues that the ECSL’s lack of responsiveness and transparency weakens the democratic principles essential for fair elections.
They have been vocal about the need for clear communication
from the ECSL, especially concerning the disputed results of the 2023
presidential elections.
The
APC’s request for clarification arises from identified discrepancies in the
election results, which they believe need a thorough and transparent review. By
not providing the requested clarifications, the ECSL is seen as avoiding
accountability and increasing mistrust in the electoral system among the public
and political stakeholders.
The
APC has called on the ECSL to reconsider its position and engage in meaningful
dialogue to address these issues. Dr. Conteh emphasized that constructive
engagement and transparency are crucial for maintaining the electoral process's
credibility and ensuring public confidence in the democratic system.