National Elections Watch Announces New Leadership, Reforms Ahead of 2028 Polls

Sierra Leone’s leading election observation body, National Elections Watch (NEW), has announced a major leadership transition and a set of internal reforms following its National Meeting held from April 28 to 29.

The development is being viewed as a strategic move to strengthen the organization’s institutional integrity and operational capacity ahead of the country’s 2028 general elections.

According to NEW, the two-day meeting attracted 74 delegates representing civil society organisations across Sierra Leone, recording a 91.8 percent turnout an indication of strong member engagement and commitment to the coalition’s future.

In what the organisation described as a credible and well-coordinated electoral process, Charles Keif-Kobai of Forward SL was elected as the new Chairperson. He secured 41 votes, representing 60.2 percent of ballots cast, in a transition that has been praised for its transparency.

Beyond the election of a national chairperson, the meeting also focused on strengthening the coalition’s grassroots structures. Regional leadership positions were filled across all provinces to promote inclusive representation and support decentralized decision-making.

The leadership change comes at a critical time as Sierra Leone prepares for the 2028 elections. NEW says it is prioritizing internal reforms aimed at addressing past challenges and adapting to the country’s evolving political landscape.

Key reform areas include improving data collection from polling stations, increasing engagement in electoral law reform processes, and reinforcing the coalition’s role as an impartial and credible voice in the democratic process.

As he assumes office, Keif-Kobai is expected to face the challenge of maintaining NEW’s neutrality while navigating the often polarized political environment that precedes national elections.