APC Rejects Edmond Alpha’s Appointment, Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum

The All People’s Congress (APC) has formally rejected the proposed appointment of Mr. Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone, warning of serious political consequences should the government proceed.

In a statement issued by the party’s National Advisory Council (NAC), APC leaders described the proposed appointment as a direct assault on the Agreement for National Unity and a deliberate circumvention of the Tripartite electoral reform process. The party argued that installing Mr. Alpha risks re-entrenching practices that contributed to mistrust following the disputed 2023 General Elections.

The NAC further highlighted concerns regarding Mr. Alpha’s credibility, post-election conduct, and perceived alignment with what it termed a contested electoral authority. According to the statement, his appointment would undermine public confidence in the credibility of future elections and weaken ongoing reform efforts.

The APC also referenced Recommendation 36 of the Tripartite Committee, which calls for the establishment of an independent Search and Nomination Committee to vet and recommend candidates for the position of Chief Electoral Commissioner. The party urged the government to conclude the required constitutional amendment process before making any appointment.

In a strong warning, the NAC stated that if the appointment is not rescinded within 48 hours, all APC elected officials will withdraw from Parliament, Local Councils, and other governance structures across the country. The party emphasized that any action taken would remain peaceful, lawful, and consistent with the Constitution.

Lansana Dumbuya, National Secretary-General of the APC, said the party’s position reflects its commitment to defending electoral integrity, constitutional governance, and the sovereign will of the people of Sierra Leone.

The NAC called on the government to demonstrate good faith by fully implementing the Tripartite Committee’s recommendations and upholding the Agreement for National Unity, warning that failure to do so could deepen political tensions ahead of future electoral processes.