By Yusuff Moseray Suma
The All People’s Congress (APC), Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, has raised alarm over what it describes as irregularities and manipulations in the ongoing electoral reform process, the constitutional amendment bill, the proposed proportional representation system, and the upcoming national housing census.
Speaking at a press conference at the party headquarters in Brookfields, Freetown, APC lead negotiator on the Agreement for National Unity, Dr. Kaifala Marah, warned that the entire electoral reform process is under threat and manipulation by the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) government. Dr. Marah emphasized that these irregularities could undermine peace and democracy in the country.
He acknowledged that while some aspects of the electoral reforms have merit and could improve governance, the current government has ignored these critical measures. One such reform is the creation of an independent committee in Parliament to oversee the activities of the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) and other election bodies. “Our leader in Parliament, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, has written to the Speaker of Parliament for this committee to be set up. As we speak, it has not been established,” Dr. Marah stated.
On the proposed constitutional amendment bill, APC Leader in Parliament Hon. Abdul Kargbo urged party members to remain steadfast and united, warning against passing any legislation that violates the constitution or goes against the will of the people. He stressed that APC MPs hold a responsibility to prevent any law from being manipulated for the political convenience of the ruling party.
Flagbearer aspirant Hon. Osman Alpha Timbo reinforced this position, noting that the country’s development relies on a solid constitutional foundation. “The APC is not against the improvement of laws or the amendment bill itself. However, we will resist any changes intended to benefit a single individual or political party. Amendments must serve the people of Sierra Leone and the nation as a whole,” he said.
Acting Chairman Ambassador Foday Osman Yasaneh highlighted the political stakes, particularly with the 2028 elections approaching. He expressed concern over the SLPP’s planned census, warning that midterm 2021 data could be manipulated to influence future elections. “Our party is not against conducting a census, but the lawful census date is 2025, as enshrined in the constitution. Every APC member and supporter must ensure the integrity of this process to secure victory in the next general elections,” Yasaneh concluded.
The APC’s statements reflect growing tensions around governance, electoral integrity, and constitutional reforms in Sierra Leone, with the opposition pledging to remain vigilant in protecting democratic processes and the rights of citizens.
