Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ) urges government to reconsider the proposed appointment of Mr. Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), as outlined in a letter from the Office of the President dated February 10, 2026.
While vacancies in key institutions must be filled, this nomination, made under Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution, raises serious legal, procedural, and democratic concerns. It risks undermining ongoing governance reforms, particularly in the aftermath of the disputed 2023 elections and the recommendations of the Tripartite Committee.
Premature with Pending Constitutional Reforms
The Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Act 2025 Bill, now before Parliament, proposes a revised Section 32 that introduces a Search and Nomination Committee to ensure transparent, merit-based appointments to the ECSL. Proceeding with a substantive appointment before Parliament concludes deliberations preempts these reforms and weakens their purpose.
Mr. Alpha already serves in an acting capacity, ensuring continuity. Rushing to confirm him permanently appears to bypass the legislative process and risks entrenching outdated practices before new safeguards take effect. ILRAJ urges the President to withdraw the proposal and await the Bill’s passage.
Pattern of Partisan Appointments Undermining Independence
This nomination reflects a broader pattern in which individuals perceived as aligned with the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) are placed in leadership roles of institutions meant to be independent. During the 2023 elections, several ECSL commissioners were widely perceived to be close to the ruling party, contributing to public distrust. Similar concerns surround the current leadership of the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC).
Such appointments erode institutional neutrality and risk turning oversight bodies into extensions of executive influence. ILRAJ calls for a commitment to appointing impartial, non-partisan leaders to restore credibility.
Insufficient Consultation Under Section 32(3)
Section 32(3) requires the President to appoint ECSL members “after consultation with the leaders of all registered political parties” and with parliamentary approval. Historically, this has been reduced to sending a brief letter requesting feedback within three working days. This approach falls short of genuine consultation and excludes meaningful input from opposition parties.
This practice undermines the constitutional intent of multiparty consensus. Consultations must involve substantive engagement, not procedural formalities.
ILRAJ urges President Julius Maada Bio to withdraw the nomination, conduct authentic consultations, and align with the Tripartite Recommendation 36 and pending constitutional reforms. We urge Parliament not to ratify any rushed appointment and prioritize reforms that truly empower citizens. We urge enhanced transparency to help reinforce confidence in our democracy.
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