The Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL), led by Chief Electoral Commissioner Mohamed Kenewui Konneh, has expressed its commitment to embracing recommendations from the Tripartite Electoral Management Review Committee. This determination underscores ECSL’s dedication to enhancing the nation’s electoral system and consolidating its democratic foundations.
In a briefing held on June 24, 2024, at ECSL Headquarters, Freetown, Konneh reiterated ECSL’s willingness to collaborate fully within legal parameters and anticipate constructive suggestions that will strengthen the framework for democratic governance. He clarified that ESCL has extended its cooperation to the Cross-Party Committee, providing all necessary documentation.
Konneh emphasized that ECSL has adhered to the law by not disseminating disaggregated polling station results since 2007, as it is not mandated to do so under Section 92 of the Public Election Act of 2022. He denounced partisan tactics employed by certain political parties to discred
it ESCL, urging them to assume accountability for their electoral performance and refrain from scapegoating the Commission.
Guided by the Constitution, ESCL prioritizes national interests. Konneh acknowledged the diverse perceptions of its work, recognizing that while some citizens appreciate its efforts, others may question its integrity. However, he affirmed that ESCL’s mandate is to conduct its responsibilities impartially and within the law, holding itself accountable under constitutional provisions.
Konneh explained that ESCL does not provide disaggregated voter registration data to political parties during or immediately after voter data capture because it is provisional and requires processing to rectify errors. Hard copies of the completed voter registration data are distributed to all political parties.
He urged political parties to abandon blackmail tactics and engage in genuine political participation. He encouraged them to allocate resources for deploying observers at polling stations and tally
centers to monitor and report results, emphasizing that the production of disaggregated data is not a legal requirement or legitimate demand.
Konneh highlighted that ESCL provides a conducive environment for political party agents to be present at polling stations and receive results reconciliation forms. It is the agents’ responsibility to safeguard these forms, a duty that some political parties have neglected in the past.
ECSL has fulfilled its legal obligations, and Konneh reminded dissatisfied parties of their right to seek redress through the Supreme Court. While acknowledging that the 2023 elections may not have been flawless, ECSL has strived to adhere to the law and international standards.
Source: Sierra Leone News Agency
