By Joseph Momoh | D.S. Reporter
Freetown, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has received the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone’s 2025 Annual Report, praising the institution for upholding professionalism, impartiality and public trust in the management of elections.
The report was presented to the President at State House on Thursday, 6 August 2026, by the Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman, Mr. Edmond Alpha.
Mr. Alpha said the presentation was in line with Section 32(12) of the 1991 Constitution, which mandates the Commission to submit an annual account of its work to the President for onward tabling in Parliament.
Beyond a statutory duty, he noted, the report reflects ECSL’s commitment to transparency, accountability and service to the people of Sierra Leone.
“Credible elections are the foundation of democracy, stability and development,” Mr. Alpha stated. “Every activity of the Commission is therefore anchored on ensuring elections are conducted professionally, impartially and in full compliance with the law.”
He said the 2025 report captures the Commission’s activities, challenges, financial management and institutional reforms. Key highlights include staff capacity building, construction of regional offices, improved internal governance, data-driven decision making and enhanced election observation.
During the period under review, ECSL also conducted 13 Paramount Chieftaincy elections across six districts in partnership with the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs. The year also marked a leadership transition following the end of former Chairman Mohamed Kenewui Konneh’s tenure on 27 July 2025.
Mr. Alpha further disclosed that ECSL was honored with the International Centre for Parliamentary Studies Award for Electoral Conflict Management, in recognition of its handling of the 2023 general elections. He said lessons from past challenges will be used to strengthen future processes and boost public confidence.
He thanked government for its financial support and reaffirmed ECSL’s dedication to independence, innovation, inclusiveness and integrity in electoral management.
In his response, President Bio commended the Commission for its resilience and consistent display of integrity before, during and after elections.
Describing electoral management as “an extremely difficult job,” the President urged the Commission to maintain the highest standards of fairness and to begin early preparations for upcoming polls. He stressed the need for continuous staff training, efficient administration and timely result declarations.
“The way you conduct future elections will determine the level of trust the public places in our democracy,” President Bio said. “You have my full personal and institutional support.”
The President formally received the report and reiterated government’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring peaceful, credible and transparent elections.
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