The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched the Elections Project Committee, marking a significant milestone in the country’s democratic development and reaffirming a shared commitment to promoting peaceful, inclusive, and credible elections.
The inaugural Elections Project Committee Meeting was held on 4 June 2026 and brought together key stakeholders from government institutions, development partners, and civil society organizations to strengthen collaboration in support of democratic governance and electoral integrity.
The meeting was co-chaired by the Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of ECSL, Edmond Sylvester Alpha, and the UNDP Resident Representative, Frederick Hans Ampiah. Participants discussed strategies aimed at enhancing electoral systems and institutions ahead of future electoral processes in Sierra Leone.
Held under the theme, “Strengthening Capacities for Peaceful and Credible Elections in Sierra Leone,” the initiative seeks to improve electoral transparency, strengthen democratic participation, and build public confidence in the country’s electoral processes.
The Committee comprises representatives from several key national institutions, including the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC), the Office of National Security (ONS), the Attorney General’s Office, and the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ). Their participation reflects the importance of a coordinated and inclusive approach to electoral governance.
International development partners also form an integral part of the initiative. Representatives from the European Union, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Iceland, and Canada attended the meeting, reaffirming their commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s democratic progress. Their involvement highlights the strong international partnership dedicated to promoting peace, accountability, and credible electoral processes in the country.
Speaking on the objectives of the project, stakeholders emphasized the importance of electoral transparency, inclusiveness, and peaceful elections as essential pillars of a strong and vibrant democracy. The Committee is expected to serve as a platform for collaboration, strategic planning, and resource mobilization aimed at strengthening the capacity of electoral institutions and enhancing public trust in the democratic process.
The launch of the Elections Project Committee sends a strong message that democracy thrives when institutions, development partners, and civil society work together toward a common goal. As Sierra Leone prepares for future electoral cycles, the initiative represents a collective commitment to ensuring that every election reflects the will of the people, strengthens national unity, and contributes to sustainable peace and development.
Through this partnership, ECSL and UNDP continue to demonstrate their dedication to supporting democratic governance and fostering an electoral environment that is transparent, inclusive, peaceful, and credible for all Sierra Leoneans.