ECSL: People Determine Outcomes; 2028 Preparation Timeframe Narrows

ECSL: People Determine Outcomes; 2028 Preparation Timeframe Narrows

Mr. Edmond Alpha, the Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), has formally dismissed assertions suggesting that the Commission manipulates or fabricates electoral results. He maintained that election outcomes are determined exclusively by the electorate.

During the inaugural session of the Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) in Freetown, Commissioner Alpha underscored that the ECSL’s mandate is strictly limited to the management, coordination, and transparent dissemination of results based on the legitimate votes cast by the citizenry.

He emphasized that the Commission does not hold the authority to designate the victors of presidential elections, noting that ultimate sovereignty resides with the voting public.

"The Commission is not involved in the manufacture of electoral outcomes. It is the people of Sierra Leone who exercise their prerogative to choose their governance via the ballot box," he asserted.

In addition to these clarifications, the ECSL Chairperson cautioned that the timeframe for comprehensive preparations for the 2028 general elections is narrowing. He urged all stakeholders to engage in immediate and coordinated strategic action.

He observed that the delivery of credible elections necessitates proactive planning, timely legislative reforms, sufficient fiscal allocations, and robust collaboration among political entities, civil society, security agencies, and electoral bodies.

Commissioner Alpha further remarked on the democratic trajectory of Sierra Leone, highlighting the successful execution of multiple electoral cycles since 2005, specifically citing the general elections held in 2007, 2012, 2018, and 2023.

He characterized these democratic milestones as hard-won achievements that must be safeguarded through an unwavering commitment to peace, transparency, and the fortification of institutional frameworks.

The Chairperson called upon political parties to advocate for peaceful civic engagement and adherence to the rule of law, while concurrently urging media organizations to maintain high standards of accuracy and objective reporting.

He also encouraged civil society and religious leaders to foster civic responsibility and national unity. Furthermore, he appealed to the security sector to maintain professional neutrality and a steadfast commitment to preserving order throughout the electoral period.

Reaffirming a commitment to constructive dialogue, Alpha prompted all stakeholders to work in a unified manner to enhance public confidence in the integrity of the electoral process ahead of 2028.

These statements were made amidst ongoing consultations with international partners and stakeholders, where electoral reform and 2028 preparations have been primary focal points.

In conclusion, he issued a call for solidarity, stressing that the protection of Sierra Leone’s democratic progress is a collective responsibility shared by all national actors.