By Kadijatu Bangura, D.S. Reporter
State House, Freetown, March 3, 2026 President Dr. Julius Maada Bio presided over the swearing-in ceremony of Mr. Edmond Sylvester Alpha, the newly appointed Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), following his parliamentary approval.
In his remarks, Secretary to the President Baba Brima Fortune outlined that President Bio conducted consultations with leaders of all registered political parties prior to the appointment, as mandated by Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution. On February 10, 2026, 14 registered parties were notified of Mr. Alpha’s nomination, with 12 endorsing his appointment.
The nominee underwent thorough parliamentary scrutiny before his formal swearing-in, as required by the Constitution.
After taking the oath of office, Mr. Alpha expressed gratitude to President Bio for the trust placed in him, describing his role as a “sacred contract with the people of Sierra Leone.” He committed to leading the ECSL with independence, transparency, integrity, and inclusiveness. “Our democracy thrives on the belief that every voice matters and every vote counts,” he affirmed, promising active engagement and dialogue with political stakeholders.
In his congratulatory address, President Bio emphasized the significance of the appointment, asserting that he exercised his constitutional authority in accordance with the consultative requirements. He described the role of Chief Electoral Commissioner as a substantial national responsibility, reaffirming his government’s dedication to protecting the ECSL’s independence.
“This is not just an appointment; it is a great responsibility,” he stated, urging Mr. Alpha and his fellow commissioners to embrace humility and patriotism in their dedication to the nation’s democratic values.
The President also highlighted key democratic reforms initiated by his administration, such as the repeal of Part Five of the Public Order Act and the abolition of the death penalty, reiterating the importance of continuous national dialogue as essential for a flourishing democracy.
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