By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
sesaythaimu97@gmail.com
In a recent government press briefing held on Tuesday, May 14th, 2024, Deputy Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., staunchly refuted unofficial reports suggesting a re-run election in Sierra Leone. Sesay affirmed that the next scheduled election in the country is slated for 2028, dismissing any speculation to the contrary.
During the briefing, Sesay, who also serves as a member of the Tripartite Committee, addressed concerns over misinformation circulating among the public regarding the electoral process. He emphasized that the committee’s focus was primarily on reviewing electoral systems and processes to enhance transparency and efficiency in future elections. Sesay clarified that discussions within the committee had never veered towards the possibility of a re-run election or shortening the President’s term.
Contrary to Sesay’s assertions, Hon. Alhaji Ibrahim Kemoh Sesay, a former minister and prominent member of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party, contested the government’s narrative during a virtual interview with Liberty TV on Wednesday, May 15th, 2024. Sesay contended that the formation of the Tripartite Committee extended beyond electoral reforms, alleging that its scope included an investigation into the transparency of the June 24, 2024, elections.
According to Sesay, clause three of the committee’s communique referenced the June 24 elections and mandated the committee to make recommendations based on its findings. He questioned the necessity of such a committee if the June 24 elections were indeed concluded satisfactorily. Sesay highlighted the involvement of international communities and professionals in the committee’s proceedings, suggesting a broader agenda beyond electoral reforms.
Expressing expectations on behalf of the APC, Sesay outlined three possible outcomes resulting from the committee’s findings regarding the June 24 elections. He stated that the outcome could confirm victory for either President Julius Maada Bio or Samura Mathew Wilson Kamara, or necessitate a fresh election if neither candidate emerged as the clear winner.
Sesay reiterated the APC’s confidence in the Tripartite Committee’s integrity and stressed the importance of the committee’s findings in determining the country’s political future. He emphasized the need for transparency and adherence to facts, underscoring that the election process remains ongoing until the committee’s implementation is concluded.
The conflicting narratives between government officials and opposition members underscore growing tensions surrounding electoral integrity and governance in Sierra Leone, as both sides await the outcome of the Tripartite Committee’s investigations.