By: Problyn J. Alpha
The Kono District Sierra Leone Traders Union has successfully reconducted its executive elections, which had been indefinitely suspended in 2024 due to alleged electoral irregularities and violence. The elections were held at the Tankoro Native Administrative Building, overseen by the management of the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) Kono District, with final results announced by the National President of the Sierra Leone Traders Union, Lansana Vandy.
According to the official results, Chairman: Osman Fofanah – 575 votes
Vice Chairman: Alhaji Saidu Jakitay – 548 votes
Secretary General: Kortequee Fillie – 564 votes
Chairlady: Adama Bockarie Mansaray – 547 votes
Vice Chairlady: Bintu Kallay – 562 votes
Financial Secretary: Ibrahim Kamara -569 votes
Public Relations Officer: Mustapha Kalokoh -568 votes
Organising Secretary: Ibrahim Jabbie – 570 votes
In his post-election speech, Chairman-elect Osman Fofanah expressed gratitude to the union members for their trust and to district stakeholders and the security sector for their professionalism during the election process. He attributed his success to good relationships within the union and promised to make the union “enviable” with God’s help.
Fofanah also pledged to extend an olive branch to his former contender, noting that in the context of the Traders Union, there are no losers. He assured members of unity and progress throughout his tenure, which will last for five years.