The newly appointed National Returning Officer and Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone, Edmond Sylvester Alpha, on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess, Kingtom in Freetown.
During the meeting, Mr. Alpha expressed appreciation to the Sierra Leone Police for its continued support to the Commission, particularly in ensuring a secure environment for electoral processes. He noted that the visit was also intended to reaffirm public confidence in his appointment, describing initial scepticism as a normal occurrence during leadership transitions within the Commission.
Mr. Alpha disclosed that the ECSL is currently developing a five-year strategic plan, alongside key policies aligned with the recommendations of the Tripartite Committee, with support from international partners.
“As the substantive head responsible for electoral operations, I am here to seek the continued support of the Sierra Leone Police in terms of security and collaboration,” he stated. “Elections are paramount, but without adequate security, they cannot succeed. A secure environment creates the enabling space for all stakeholders to operate freely.”
He further assured the IGP of his commitment to delivering free, fair, and transparent elections that reflect the will of the people. Mr. Alpha also highlighted his experience, noting his involvement alongside the Minister of Local Government in the successful conduct of over 45 Paramount Chieftaincy elections across the country.
In his response, Inspector General Sellu congratulated Mr. Alpha on his appointment and reaffirmed the SLP’s unwavering commitment to supporting the ECSL in fulfilling its mandate.
He emphasized that professionalism and integrity remain essential in-service delivery, adding that regional and divisional police commanders nationwide have been instructed to maintain close collaboration with ECSL officials to ensure adequate security for all electoral activities.
The meeting underscored the importance of sustained partnership between the ECSL and the Sierra Leone Police in promoting peaceful, credible, and well-secured elections across the country.
