By John Kamara
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio on Tuesday swore in Edmond Sylvester Alpha as the country’s new Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), following his approval by parliament.
The ceremony at State House in Freetown comes amid heightened political tensions over electoral reforms ahead of the next general elections.
Secretary to the President Baba Brima Fortune said the appointment was made in line with Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution, which requires the president to consult with leaders of all registered political parties before appointing the electoral chief.
Fortune said 14 registered political parties were formally notified on Feb. 10, with 12 submitting letters approving Alpha’s appointment. He added that Alpha subsequently underwent parliamentary scrutiny and was approved prior to taking the oath of office.
After being sworn in, Alpha described his appointment as “a sacred contract with the people of Sierra Leone” and pledged to lead the electoral body with independence, transparency and integrity.
“Our democracy thrives on the belief that every voice matters and every vote counts,” he said, promising constructive engagement with political parties and other stakeholders.
President Bio said he had exercised his constitutional authority in making the appointment and had complied with the consultative requirements of the law. He described the role as a significant national responsibility and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the independence of the electoral commission.
“This is not a mere appointment; it is a great responsibility,” Bio said, urging the new chairman to uphold democratic principles.
The president also pointed to reforms undertaken during his administration, including the repeal of the criminal libel provisions of the Public Order Act and the abolition of the death penalty, which he said reflected his government’s commitment to democratic governance.
Alpha’s appointment comes as Sierra Leone continues constitutional and electoral reform discussions following disputed 2023 elections.
