By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) convened a significant stakeholder engagement session on September 5, 2025, at its Multimedia Center in Freetown, to discuss the implementation of the Tripartite Recommendations aimed at improving the country’s electoral system.
The event brought together representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs), the media, and other key stakeholders to foster collaboration, transparency, and trust in Sierra Leone’s electoral process, especially in preparation for the 2025–2029 electoral cycle.
In his opening remarks, Acting Chairman of the ECSL, Edmond Sylvester Alpha, underscored the importance of collective responsibility in strengthening the electoral framework. “This engagement is pivotal for enhancing accountability and transparency in Sierra Leone’s elections,” he stated.
Commissioner Abubakar Mahmoud Koroma provided historical insight into the ECSL’s longstanding relationship with civil society, emphasizing the role of CSOs in election observation and public education. Commissioner Zainab Umu Moseh echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for trust among all electoral stakeholders and highlighting the critical role CSOs play in ensuring inclusive and participatory electoral processes.
The session featured in-depth discussions on the practical steps required to implement the Tripartite Recommendations, which were jointly endorsed by the Government of Sierra Leone, political parties, and development partners. Stakeholders were encouraged to actively participate in future consultations to ensure that their views are incorporated into the electoral reform process.
Reverend Fornah, speaking on behalf of civil society, commended the ECSL for its openness and transparency. He emphasized the importance of CSOs in combating misinformation and strengthening public confidence in the electoral system. He also urged continued advocacy for inclusivity in electoral reforms.
Participants described the engagement as timely and productive, viewing it as a positive step towards a more credible and transparent electoral framework. The ECSL announced plans to conduct additional consultations in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections, aimed at ensuring the electoral system is robust, inclusive, and reflective of public interest.
In his closing remarks, Acting Chairman Alpha reaffirmed the ECSL’s commitment to the full implementation of the Tripartite Recommendations. He called on all stakeholders to remain engaged and cooperative in efforts to deliver free, fair, and credible elections.
This stakeholder engagement marks a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s democratic development, as the ECSL continues to build public trust and reinforce the integrity of the electoral process ahead of the next election cycle.