By: Precious Miracle Kargbo Snr.
The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA), today conducted the Declaration of Rights for the forthcoming Paramount Chieftaincy Election in Malen Chiefdom, Pujehun District, marking a significant milestone in the electoral process and the peaceful transition of traditional leadership.
The exercise brought together 16 aspirants and 932 Traditional Authorities, reflecting strong grassroots participation and democratic engagement in one of the chiefdom’s most anticipated electoral events.
During the declaration ceremony, ECSL officials outlined the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of both aspirants and the body of electors. The session emphasized the importance of transparency, fairness, discipline, and respect for electoral regulations throughout the chieftaincy election process. Traditional Authorities were reminded of their critical role as custodians of tradition and local governance in selecting a Paramount Chief who will serve the people of Malen Chiefdom with integrity, wisdom, and accountability.
Representatives of the MLGCA reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that Paramount Chieftaincy Elections are conducted in accordance with the Chieftaincy Act and other relevant legal provisions. They urged all stakeholders to promote unity, uphold democratic principles, and refrain from actions that could threaten peace and stability within the chiefdom.
With 16 aspirants contesting for the vacant stool, the level of interest underscores the importance of the office of Paramount Chief in fostering local governance, community development, conflict resolution, and social cohesion. The participation of 932 Traditional Authorities as electors further highlights the broad-based representation that characterizes Sierra Leone’s traditional governance system.
ECSL officials confirmed that the Declaration of Rights forms part of the Commission’s standard electoral procedures aimed at preparing aspirants and electors ahead of polling day. They assured participants that all necessary measures have been put in place to ensure a free, fair, transparent, and credible election.
The collaboration between ECSL and the MLGCA reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic governance and uphold the integrity of traditional leadership institutions across Sierra Leone. As preparations continue, stakeholders in Pujehun District remain hopeful that the election will be conducted peacefully and that the outcome will reflect the collective will of the legitimate electors of Malen Chiefdom.