Sierra
Leone’s Tripartite Committee Submits Draft Findings and Recommendations on
Sierra
Leone’s Independent Cross-Party Committee on Electoral Systems and Management
Bodies Review, commonly known as the Tripartite Committee, has submitted its
long-awaited report. The report was presented by government representative Dr.
Emmanuel Gaima to Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh on June 24, 2024, at the
State House in Freetown.
The
Tripartite Committee was established to review election results, certification
processes, observer reports, and the Public Elections Act of 2022. Its
formation was the result of a communiqué signed by the Sierra Leone People's
Party (SLPP) and the All People’s Congress (APC) in October 2023, following
mediation by international bodies including the Commonwealth, African Union
(AU), and ECOWAS. The committee's operations were funded by a $1.5 million
grant from the United States government.
Initially,
the committee was given a six-month mandate to complete its investigation, with
a deadline of June 19, 2024. However, an extension was granted following a
critical meeting with President Bio, attended by ECOWAS and AU representatives.
Last
Thursday, Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh announced that the committee had
diligently addressed 86 identified issues, successfully resolving 69.
This highlights the committee's extensive work in addressing the concerns
raised about Sierra Leone's electoral process.
Upon
receiving the report on Monday, Sengeh expressed appreciation for the
committee's efforts. He stated, “The Tripartite Committee on Electoral Systems
and Management Bodies Review has done six months of great national service. As
Chief Negotiator, I received draft findings and recommendations today. We will
quickly review for final submission to President Bio.”
The submission of this report marks a significant step in Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to ensure transparent and fair electoral processes.
The recommendations
from the Tripartite Committee are expected to address key issues and provide a
roadmap for future electoral reforms. The government’s prompt review and action
on these recommendations will be crucial in restoring public confidence in the
electoral system.