By ophanieltgooding@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – A two-day national conference organized by the National Elections Watch focusing on mobilizing civil society for genuine electoral reforms, peace, and national cohesion in Sierra Leone began yesterday with opening remarks from Chairperson Mahmoud Idriss Tarawallie. Tarawallie emphasized the vital role civil society plays in supporting the nation’s democratic process, underscoring the importance of representation, quality elections, and protecting citizens’ rights.
The conference comes at a crucial time, less than a week after Sierra Leone secured a $480 million compact from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) aimed at transforming the country’s energy sector. However, the compact includes a clause stipulating that Sierra Leone must continue demonstrating its commitment to advancing democracy, combatting corruption, and investing in its people to maintain eligibility. This includes the full implementation of the Agreement for National Unity and the recommendations of the Tripartite Committee, which focus on reforms needed to enhance democratic governance. Cooperation between the ruling Sierra Leone Peoples Party and the opposition All Peoples Congress on key electoral and constitutional reforms will be essential to maintaining this funding.
During the conference, civil society organizations gathered to discuss their role in helping the government implement these reforms. The recommendations from the Tripartite Committee focus on legal, institutional, and social changes that aim to improve transparency and efficiency in Sierra Leone’s democratic process. Speakers highlighted the need for continuous mediation between the government and the public, with civil society playing a critical role in holding elected leaders accountable.
Dignitaries, including the Chief Minister and international representatives, were present, stressing the importance of genuine electoral reforms to ensure lasting peace and national cohesion. The Tripartite Committee’s recommendations were a central focus, with participants urging for their rapid implementation.
Throughout the event, speakers called for unity within civil society to push forward these reforms, acknowledging the difficulties ahead but encouraging bold and decisive action. The conference also provided a platform for developing actionable strategies to guarantee transparent and fair elections, build solidarity, and maintain momentum towards achieving peace and stability in Sierra Leone. OG/2/10/2024
