Tripartite Committee Granted Extension to Address Electoral Issues

Sierra Leone's Tripartite Committee Granted Extension to Address Electoral Issues

The tripartite committee responsible for reforming Sierra Leone’s electoral processes has received an extension following a crucial meeting with President Bio at the State House, attended by moral guarantors from ECOWAS and the African Union.

The committee, which includes representatives from the main opposition APC, the ruling SLPP, and an international member, sought more time to finalize their comprehensive report after identifying and resolving numerous issues. 

Initially established to review the country’s electoral systems after the contentious June 2023 presidential elections, the committee has diligently addressed 86 identified issues, successfully resolving 69 of them. The remaining challenges are actively being considered for swift resolution.

During the recent meeting, a joint communiqué was signed, underscoring the committee’s dedication to transparency and inclusivity in their reform efforts. This document will be publicly released soon, detailing the progress made and outlining further steps to enhance electoral integrity.

The extension is a significant step towards ensuring comprehensive electoral reforms in Sierra Leone. The committee's ongoing work aims to address the root causes of the electoral issues and to implement measures that will ensure future elections are free, fair, and credible. 

The cooperation between the APC, SLPP, and international bodies highlights a unified commitment to strengthening democracy and maintaining peace in the country.

The Government of Sierra Leone and the APC expressed gratitude to the development partners, experts, and moral guarantors who have supported this process. They also urged all stakeholders and citizens to continue supporting these crucial electoral reforms for the betterment of Sierra Leone’s democracy.