By: Saidu Jalloh
The Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone, Mr. Mohamed Konneh, has presented the annual report on the 2023 elections to President Bio. The report encompasses a comprehensive overview of the electoral processes governing the presidential, parliamentary, councilor, chairman, mayor, and village head elections held last year.
In his presentation, Mr. Konneh emphasized that the electoral processes were conducted in compliance with Section 32 and Subsection 12 of the Constitution of Sierra Leone Act No. 6 of 1991. He highlighted the Commission’s commitment to ensuring peaceful, free, and fair elections that fostered inclusive participation across all levels of government.
President Bio, while acknowledging the inevitability of electoral scrutiny globally, referenced his own experience in challenging election outcomes through legal channels. He underscored the importance of adhering to legal avenues, particularly the courts, for contesting election results. Reflecting on his previous electoral disputes, President Bio stressed the need for citizens to uphold the rule of law and refrain from inciting unrest or questioning the legitimacy of the electoral process outside of judicial frameworks.
He asserted that the results of the 2023 elections had been duly announced and accepted, and that any further challenges must follow due legal process. President Bio categorically stated that he lacked the authority to order new elections, emphasizing that the next scheduled polls would occur in 2028.
Furthermore, President Bio urged citizens to prioritize national development initiatives such as Feed Salone and educational advancements, rather than perpetuating political unrest or uncertainty. He announced the formation of a committee to review electoral laws with the aim of enhancing fairness and transparency in future elections.
Despite the Commission’s efforts to ensure transparency, President Bio acknowledged ongoing public dissatisfaction with electoral procedures and outcomes. He called for unity and collective effort towards building a cohesive Sierra Leone, cautioning against distracting the populace with premature discussions about elections until the scheduled 2028 polls.
In conclusion, while the presentation of the electoral report marks a formal acknowledgment of the 2023 election outcomes, it also underscores persisting challenges and the government’s commitment to address them through legal reforms and national development initiatives.
