By Thaimu Bai Sesay
At a government press briefing held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, Madam Hawa Samai, the Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), provided clarifications on the Tripartite agreement, addressing misconceptions surrounding its purpose and implementation.
Madam Samai began by outlining the mandate of the ICPNC, emphasizing its role in ensuring peace and national cohesion in Sierra Leone. She underscored the commission’s commitment to impartiality, equality, and inclusivity in organizing the mediation dialogue between parties.
Regarding the involvement of international partners in the mediation process, Madam Samai explained that both the Government and the APC party were consulted for recommendations before extending invitations. Permission was sought from the President, who granted acceptance for international partners like ECOWAS, AU, and Commonwealth to participate.
However, Madam Samai clarified that the ICPNC operates within the framework of the High Court’s powers, not the Supreme Court, and must adhere strictly to Sierra Leone’s constitution as a sovereign state.
Addressing misconceptions about the Tripartite resolution, Madam Samai emphasized that it was just one of eight resolutions in the agreement. She urged the public to review all resolutions for proper understanding.
Explaining the essence of the Tripartite, Madam Samai highlighted its focus on constituting a committee, comprising representatives from the APC, SLPP, and UNRC, to review electoral systems and management bodies. The committee aims to enhance the credibility of future elections in Sierra Leone, ensuring they are free, fair, and credible.
Furthermore, Madam Samai detailed the committee’s terms of reference, which include examining the legal framework, electoral management, and institutional reports. She mentioned plans for wide consultations with media and civil society organizations across various districts.
In conclusion, Madam Samai reiterated the commitment of the ICPNC to facilitating a transparent and inclusive mediation process, emphasizing the importance of collective agreement and collaboration to promote peace and stability in Sierra Leone.
