By: Problyn John Alpha
Kono district ECSL’s (Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone) auxiliary staff have expressed dissatisfaction over delay of payment after participating in the recent conduct of the June 24th general elections and have threaten to stage nationwide strike.
Speaking to this medium, some of the field staff noted that prior to the June 24th elections, they applied every effort to ensure that the voting process was carried out smoothly and with utmost professionalism; stating the numerous challenges they displayed unwavering commitment to serve the country and fellow citizens.
They said after a successful and peaceful conduct of the multitier elections the commission has left the field officers in limbo as the commission has refused (for reason best known to them) to pay their salaries.
ECSL’s attitude according to them has caused undue hardship and suffering for many who have been forced to endure long period of financial insecurity .The aggrieved field staff, however, called on the leadership of ECSL and the government of Sierra Leone to immediately effect the said payment as soon as possible, noting if this concern is not looked into quickly by the appropriate authorities they will be forced to take nationwide strike action.
“It is important that the electoral commission takes swift action to rectify this situation by honoring its commitment to all the field staff who worked hard during the recent concluded, as we deserves nothing less than utmost respect and support, and it is therefore incumbent on the commission to do the right thing” the aggrieved field staff stated.
They beseeched all citizens of Sierra Leone to join them in this effort to ensure that justice is achieved.