By Alpha Abu
The Security Sector has expressed dismay at what it says is the publication of parallel Presidential election results by National Elections Watch (NEW) – a Coalition of Civil Society Organisations operating in Sierra Leone.
A statement dated 29th June 2023 signed by the National Security Coordinator Abdulai Caulker who is also Head of Office of National Security (ONS) , said the sector was gravely concerned about NEW’s publication, and its potential implications for national security.
NEW accredited by the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) to observe the June 24 polls had reportedly published its own projected version of the presidential election result which was at complete variance to ECSL’s certified result announced by Chief Electoral Commissioner, Mohamed Konneh on Tuesday 27th June.
“Consistent with Section 93 of the Constitution of Sierra Leone Act No. 6 of 1991, the ECSL is the sole state organ recognised by law to proclaim Election Results in Sierra Leone”, the security sector statement reads in part.
The security sector also viewed with dismay that the publication made by NEW “has been erroneously regarded as authentic by certain Development Partners’’, and drew reference to a joint press statement reportedly signed by six development partners stating lack of “transparency in the election results tabulation process’’, which the security sector says contravenes relevant sections in the country’s constitution that gives ECSL the sole authority to publish election results.
While the security sector reminded development partners, international observers ( who witnessed the polls) and the public that the actions of NEW could provoke unfavourable consequences including undue tension in the country , it urged particularly development partners to engage directly with ECSL and other Election Management Bodies.
The security sector said it was an “overwhelmingly peaceful election which has been widely acclaimed both at home and abroad’’ and commended development partners and international observers “for having reminded citizens about the use of due process in addressing post-election concerns”.
“The Security Sector, through the ONS continues to follow the election process to its logical conclusion and appeals to the general public to remain calm, go about their normal business and cooperate with the Security Sector’’, the statement concludes.
Copyright © 2023 Politico (30/06/23)
