Disputes Delay APC Elections in Two Districts
The All People’s Congress (APC) has successfully concluded lower-level elections across 15 of Sierra Leone’s 17 administrative districts. However, internal electoral processes in Kambia and Karene remain stalled due to unresolved legal petitions and ongoing disputes, which are now under review by the High Court.
Testifying before Justice Adrian Fisher on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, Patrick Hassan Kamara, National Coordinator of the APC’s Independent Elections Management Committee (IEMC), stated that pending petitions have blocked voting in the affected districts. The delay puts pressure on a court order requiring all remaining lower-level elections to be finalized within 21 days.
Under cross-examination by plaintiff counsel Jessie Jengo, Kamara confirmed that specific challenges regarding Wards 220 and 227 in Kambia are currently before the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). Party officials emphasized that these disputes must be settled prior to conducting elections to guarantee that elected delegates can withstand future legal challenges.
The court proceedings highlighted significant operational challenges on polling days, including late arrivals of election staff in remote areas that forced voting past official hours. While reruns have taken place in places like Port Loko, Western Area, and Kono, logistical issues continue to fuel further petitions.
Adding to the tension, Ibrahim Sorie, Chairman of the Independent Election Complaints Board, reported that board members have faced threats, intimidation, and abusive messages following their rulings. Despite these pressures, the board expects to wrap up remaining district and constituency hearings by the end of the week.
To ensure impartiality and restore public confidence, Kamara advocated for key structural reforms, such as rotating electoral officials between districts, enhancing legal protections against disruption, and addressing funding and security shortages.
Justice Fisher announced that he will issue additional court directions in the coming days to expedite the process. For now, the completion of the APC's internal electoral roadmap hinges on the pending legal rulings for Kambia and Karene.
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