Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) is currently providing logistical support to the Electoral Commission of Guinea for the conduct of its Diaspora Referendum Polls within Sierra Leone.
The polls, which opened on Sunday morning, are being facilitated in eight designated locations across the country. These include Mafa Field at Lumley-Regent (Western Urban), Pastor Bah’s compound in Waterloo (Western Rural), ECSL office in Bo, Arabic School in Kambia, Paramount Chief Marrah’s compound in Kabala, ECSL office in Kenema, UMC Boys Primary School in Koindu (Kono District), and 1 Sow Drive, Timbo Section in Makeni (Bombali District).
According to ECSL, this assistance is being provided in accordance with the ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC) agreement, which encourages collaboration and mutual support among electoral bodies in the West African sub-region.
This collaboration comes as Guinea prepares for a constitutional referendum, a highly significant political process that seeks to determine potential amendments to the country’s governing framework. The referendum has drawn regional and international attention, given its implications for Guinea’s democratic trajectory and political stability.
The referendum in Guinea, held on 21 September 2025, is a pivotal step in the country’s political transition, with a proposed constitution that could pave the way for military leader Gen. Mamady Doumbouya to contest future elections.
Key provisions include extending presidential terms from five to seven years (renewable once), and creating a Senate with one-third of which would be appointed by the president.
While the Guinean authorities describe it as a move toward restoring constitutional order, critics argue it consolidates executive power and undermines democratic checks and balances, particularly amid a clampdown on opposition parties and independent media.
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