Media Analyst Raises Concerns Over Unresolved 2023 Electoral Issues After Moral Guarantors’ Visit

Media analyst Victor Moinina has raised concerns over lingering issues surrounding Sierra Leone’s 2023 electoral process following the conclusion of the third visit of International Moral Guarantors.

Speaking on Liberty Online TV, Moinina highlighted ongoing disputes over the disaggregated election results, noting that the opposition continues to demand full access to the data. He said the lack of transparency regarding the figures remains a key source of political tension and was among the issues that contributed to earlier boycotts of the electoral process.

He also questioned recent developments within the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), particularly the appointment and continued role of Commissioner Edmond Sylvester Alpha, raising uncertainty over whether further changes are expected in the Commission’s leadership structure.

The analyst further referenced proposed reforms emerging from the ongoing dialogue process, including suggestions to expand the Tripartite Steering Committee to incorporate civil society organisations, the media, and other political stakeholders.

Moinina noted that such inclusivity is common in reform processes, but stressed that questions remain over who stands to benefit from the outcomes political actors or ordinary citizens.

He also expressed concern over the exclusion of key political figures, including Dr. Samura Kamara, from parts of the consultation process, describing it as a significant gap given his political profile and role in the 2023 elections.

Moinina concluded that despite the engagement of the International Moral Guarantors, several critical questions remain unresolved, calling for greater clarity and transparency in both electoral reforms and the broader political dialogue process.