How on earth can any sane person expect Samura Kamara to congratulate the thief who stole the Sierra Leone elections in broad daylight ?

 

Cross-Party Tripartite Committee to start sitting in Sierra Leone

Pres. Bio Inaugurates Cross-Party Committee for Electoral Systems Review_*

www.thecalabashnewspaper.com

*_By Foday Moriba Conteh_*

President Bio has on the 21st November, 2023 launched the Independent Committee for Electoral Systems Review at State House during an event that was graced by dignitaries, political leaders, representatives, media, Civil Society, and esteemed guests who witnessed a pivotal step towards fortifying Sierra Leone’s democratic foundations.

It must be noted that this development came in the wake of the mediated ‘Agreement for National Unity’ between the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) and the All Peoples Congress Party (APC), that took place from October 16-18, 2023 in Freetown and in the process a pivotal resolution was adopted which was to establish a ‘Cross Party Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review with a three-way Leadership.

Following the adoption, subsequent engagements between the GoSL and the APC took place and it was agreed that the APC would nominate up to seven members for the Committee, which they did and approved by the President, who emphasized the need for an inclusive representation of stakeholders in addition to the nominated members.

In order to initiate the Committee’s operationalization, President Julius Maada Bio yesterday spearheaded the official launch of the Independent Cross-Party Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review.
In his address, President Bio emphasized the nation’s dedication to fortify democratic values, underscoring the collective commitment transcending political and individual differences for the greater national interest. He reflected on the post-election concerns following his 2023 election, highlighting his proposal to establish a National Electoral Systems Review Committee to fortify institutional, legal, and operational frameworks for future elections.

Acknowledging the instrumental role played by inter-party dialogues facilitated by ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Commonwealth, President Bio expressed pride in the adoption of a 7-point resolution for national unity and cohesion. Notably, his proposal for an electoral systems review was embraced as the third resolution, marking a significant step toward reconciling political differences.

The President extended gratitude to opposition leaders, particularly Dr. Samura Kamara, and the Government team led by Dr. David Sengeh, for their commitment during deliberations aimed at fostering national reconciliation. He highlighted the swift implementation of Resolution Number 1, addressing the nation on October 24th, and the subsequent compliance by the main opposition in ending their non-participation in governance as per Resolution Number 2.

(The launch of the tripartite committee for electoral systems and management bodies was heralded as a crucial stride in institutionalizing dialogue within the nation’s political landscape.)
He stressed the importance of political dialogue as a symbol of commitment to peace and national unity, citing past initiatives such as the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion established after the 2018 general elections.

The President affirmed the nation’s democratic growth and resilience in overcoming challenges, expressing satisfaction in collaborating with local and international partners to deepen congeniality in political discourse. He reiterated his Government’s unwavering support for the Committee and pledged full implementation of the remaining resolutions from the dialogue agreement.

In a moment brimming with pride and honor, President Julius Maada Bio officially inaugurated the Independent Three-Way Committee on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies Review, signifying a home-grown initiative poised to fortify Sierra Leone’s democratic landscape.

On his part Dr. Samura Kamara, the Leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), underscored the necessity for a peaceful resolution following the contentious June 24, 2023 multitier elections.

He emphasized the significance of seeking a peaceful resolution amid the stalemate that ensued after the contested elections highlighting the commitment of both parties to finding a peaceful resolution and urged fellow political leaders to prioritize dialogue over conflicts and violence.

Touching upon electoral malpractices and the need for transparency, Dr. Kamara stressed the importance of scrutinizing the electoral processes, particularly in relation to the publication of disaggregated election results. He called for mutual respect and emphasized the complexities in handling political, economic, and governance challenges.

Expressing gratitude to involved parties and development partners for their support, Dr. Kamara emphasized the imperative of jointly agreed terms of reference for the committee. He underscored the need for an in-depth review of electoral procedures, including voter registration, polling, vote counting, and result announcement, to ensure future elections are credible, transparent, and free from irregularities.

The composition and independence of the committee were highlighted as critical factors for its effectiveness. Dr. Kamara affirmed the APC’s selection of members based on integrity, expertise in electoral processes, and patriotic values. He stressed the need for the Committee’s autonomy and access to all pertinent documents and information to execute its duties effectively.

Babatunde A. Ahonsi, the UN Resident Coordinator in Sierra Leone, in his statement maintained that the establishment of the Committee stands as a key provision of the National Unity Agreement inked on October 18, 2023, between the Government and the main opposing party, APC.

He emphasized the paramount importance of promoting unity and national cohesion, particularly following a divisive electoral campaign and the tense post-election period.
The Resident Coordinator lauded the opposition’s return to governance and commended President Bio’s commitment expressed during his national address on October 24, 2023, to prioritize the agreement’s implementation underscoring how the review of the electoral system, as highlighted by the President, holds critical significance in bolstering Sierra Leone’s democratic foundations.

Ahonsi reiterated the United Nations’ unwavering commitment to supporting the agreement’s implementation. Responding to both the President’s and APC’s requests, he said the UN pledges to serve as representatives in the Committee’s tripartite leadership, participate as moral guarantors and provide essential technical assistance for implementing the Committee’s recommendations.

He concluded that in collaboration with development partners and under the leadership of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa, the UN’s Department of Political and Peace Building Affairs and Electoral Assistance Division stands prepared to contribute significantly to this crucial process in Sierra Leone.

The composition of the Committee includes: Dr. Kaifala Marah as Co-Chair on the side of the main opposition APC. Other key figures of the APC include Dr. Richard Konteh, Ambassador Alimamy Petito Koroma, Boniface Sidikie Kamara, David Fornah, Bernadette Kargbo, and Prince Tholley.

On the side of the Government, Dr. Emmanuel Giama will serve as Co-Chair and other members include Hon. Dr. Fatmata Hassan, Madam Isatu J. Kabba, Hon. Helen Kuyembeh, Napoleon Koroma, Hon. Alpha Sesay and Rtd. Hon. Justice Komba Kamanda.

Representatives from CSOs include: 1 from IGR ,1 from 50/50 Group ,1 from the Human Right Commission of Sierra Leone ,1 from SLAJ, 1 from the National Council for Civic Education and Democracy.

The Moral Guarantors include: ECOWAS, African Union, Commonwealth, United Nations, ICPNC, Women’s Forum, National Council of Paramount Chiefs, Sierra Leone Labour Congress, Children Forum Network, District Youth Representatives and the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone.

*(C) The Calabash Newspaper*

1. i

2. FORMAL LAUNCH CEREMONY OF THE TRIPARTITE COMMITTEE ON ELECTORAL SYSTEMS & MANAGEMENT BODIES REVIEW TUESDAY, 21ST NOVEMBER, 2023

    

   By Dr Samura Mathew Wilson Kamara

   Mr President

   Members of Parliament

   Cabinet Ministers

   Members of the Diplomatic & Consular Corps Co-Chairs and Members of the Tripartite Committee Distinguished Guests

   Ladies & Gentlemen

   Fellow Sierra Leoneans

    

   Today, we are taking another giant step in carrying forward what President Bio and I agreed in order to find a peaceful resolution to the political stalemate following the contested outcome of the June 24, 2023, multi-tier elections. The resulting inter-party dialogue is arguably the most peaceful and multi-stakeholder out-of-court settlement. It is also proving to us that as political leaders of our time, we must advise ourselves that not all fights require guns, violence, knives, broken bottles, ‘mammy coss’, plenty of spin and political masking and hypocrisy. Good fights require only wisdom, tolerance, mutual respect and patriotism. Experience suggests that there are no easy, catch-all solutions to the difficulties we face in deciding how to handle deceitful or dissembling politics and economic management. There is however no room for complacency or despair. We are making history.

    

   Permit me to express my gratitude to the Parties to the Agreement, namely, the government of Sierra Leone and the All Peoples Congress, for demonstrating a willingness to implement the Agreement reached at the Bintumani Dialogue. I also extend my thanks to the Development Partners and other moral guarantors, including the AU, ECOWAS and the Commonwealth, for their valuable guidance during the negotiations. It is through such collaboration and dialogue that we can strive to address the political interests and welfare of our people. Without any doubt, I can regrettably state that the political impasse that emerged after our June 24th elections has had devastating effects on our lives and the global perception of our democracy. As we launch the Tripartite Committee today, I would like to emphasize the importance of focusing on the dictates and contents of the dialogue. Agreement, which means that our June 24th elections are not yet over until they are over.

    

   The importance of having clearly defined and jointly agreed Terms of Reference (TOR) by the parties to the committee cannot be overemphasized. The TOR will guide us in analyzing and understanding the allegations by the Opposition APC Party and several other stakeholders, of electoral rigging made on the June 24th election processes as well as the failure of the ECSL to publish the disaggregated election results. As the Agreement clearly states, in Resolution 3 (R3), it is equally crucial that we determine the veracity and extent of any electoral irregularities, manipulations, or malpractices that may have also occurred during previous elections. The overarching goals are first, to unravel the Truth in the June 24th, 2023 election cycle with appropriate recommendations, and second, to go into the past with a view to building a stronger, efficient and credible electoral system that will stand the test of time.

    

   We in the APC are of the view that to achieve these objectives, the Committee should review the entire electoral process, including pre-election preparations, voter registration, polling procedures, vote counting, and result announcement. We must also identify any systemic weaknesses or vulnerabilities within the electoral system that may have contributed to alleged or actual electoral rigging. This comprehensive review will allow us to address the contentious issues and enhance the credibility of all future elections, ensuring they are free, fair, credible, and transparent. The composition and independence of the Committee are of utmost importance. Accordingly, the APC has selected members with proven integrity, experience and expertise in electoral processes, and patriotic values. It is vital that the Committee operates independently, free from interference or undue influence from any external parties. To carry out its work effectively, the Committee must be given the necessary authority and powers. It must have access to all relevant documents, records, and information, including election results, voter data, and agreements between the electoral authorities and any third parties.

    

   

    

   Additionally, the Committee shall have the power to summon witnesses, experts, government officials, electoral authorities, political party representatives, and any other individuals necessary for the investigation. It shall also have the ability to request additional resources, technical expertise, or assistance from relevant national or international organizations. The investigation and assessment conducted by the Committee should be thorough and comprehensive. All evidence, including witness testimonies, official reports, video recordings, voter complaints, and other relevant data related to alleged electoral irregularities, must be collected and analyzed. The Committee should conduct interviews and consultations with various stakeholders involved in the electoral process to verify the accuracy, integrity, and transparency of the entire process. Furthermore, it must examine the conduct of election officials, training procedures, impartiality, and compliance with electoral laws and regulations. Any financial or material resources that may have been misused or inappropriately allocated during the electoral process should also be analyzed.

    

   Based on the investigation and assessment, the Committee should provide a comprehensive report outlining its findings, conclusions, and recommendations. If evidence of electoral rigging is found, the report should clearly identify the methods used, the actors involved, and the impact on the fairness and integrity of the elections. Necessary actions and reforms should be recommended, including subsequent improvements or amendments to electoral laws, procedures, and regulations. The report should also highlight any actions that need to be taken against individuals or entities responsible for electoral irregularities, including possible legal consequences or dismissals. Transparency and accountability should be paramount throughout this process. All activities, proceedings, and documents related to the Committee’s work must be conducted transparently and made accessible to the public while respecting privacy and confidentiality constraints. Regular updates should be provided to the public and relevant stakeholders, regarding the progress, findings, and emerging issues during the investigation.

    

   The ruling government and the Opposition Party should be given the opportunity to submit relevant information, evidence, or concerns to the Committee, ensuring fair representation of their perspectives. Finally, the final report of the Committee’s findings, along with its recommendations, should be published. This will ensure accountability and also enable the public other concerned stakeholders and other authorities to take appropriate action. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate the importance of the Tripartite Committee and its role in addressing the political impasse and the democratic future of our beloved nation. This is a monumental step in rebuilding Sierra Leone and restoring public confidence in our election processes. By adhering to the Terms of Reference to be agreed by the Co-Chairs and members of the committee, we can work towards achieving a legacy of free, fair, credible, non-violent and transparent elections in the future. It is my hope that this Committee will pave the way for a more inclusive and democratic society, where the voices of all citizens are heard and respected.

    

   The Committee is and must be restricted to its Parties only, in tandem with the Agreement, supported by accredited experts. Its meetings and deliberations are exclusively for its members. No actions or decisions must be taken by any Party unilaterally. The general public can be engaged in the committee’s outreach programs. I am praying that common sense will prevail so that we can win for the people of Sierra Leone and for our God Almighty. We are their ultimate Hope for the peace, unity, freedom, prosperity, and democracy our people so desperately yearn for. Mr President, Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, in this Tripartite Committee, we have ONE CHOICE, ONE CHANCE, ONE RESPONSIBILITY, and ONE SIERRA LEONE. I therefore urge the Committee to uphold their sacred responsibility for the good of the people and country. Permit me also, distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, to crave your respect and indulgence, for us to be upstanding and observe a moment of silence as we remember all those who, by death, have been victims of electoral violence – \RIPP. Full and urgent application of the Agreement, in particular, Resolution 4 (R4) will also restore hope and confidence in our country. I thank you.