Deputy information Minister Accuses NEW of Aligning with APC Interests

Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Bockarie Abdel Aziz Bawoh, has publicly questioned the neutrality of National Elections Watch (NEW), suggesting that the group operates in alignment with the opposition All People’s Congress (APC).

Speaking during a recent appearance on the Epic Morning Show, Bawoh cast doubt on the watchdog’s independence, pointing to its conduct during the 2023 presidential elections. He argued that despite its observations, NEW never directly challenged the legitimacy of President Julius Maada Bio’s victory.

According to the Deputy Minister, while the organization had hinted at the possibility of a runoff, it ultimately stopped short of disputing the final outcome. He maintained that none of NEW’s reports explicitly suggested that the President lost the election.

Bawoh’s remarks have since stirred conversation in political and civic circles, reigniting scrutiny over the role and perceived impartiality of election monitoring bodies in Sierra Leone.

As public trust in democratic institutions remains a critical issue, his comments are likely to fuel further debate on transparency, accountability, and the fine line between observation and political influence.