Can Sierra Leone's Next Elections Be More Peaceful? HRCSL, APC and Peace Commission Take Another Step Forward

As Sierra Leone continues its journey towards stronger democracy, key national institutions and political stakeholders have renewed efforts to improve electoral accountability, protect human rights, and prevent future election-related violence.

The Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone (HRCSL) on Wednesday hosted a strategic follow-up meeting with representatives of the All Peoples Congress (APC), the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), and the Moral Guarantors to review progress on implementing Tripartite Committee Recommendation 29—one of the recommendations aimed at strengthening trust in the country's electoral process.

Recommendation 29 mandates HRCSL to monitor election-related human rights violations while leading civic education initiatives designed to promote peaceful participation and respect for democratic principles.

During the meeting, HRCSL Commissioner Hassan Samba Yarjah reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to independence, impartiality, and professionalism. He also highlighted HRCSL's position paper on the Constitution (Amended) Act, 2025, describing it as an important contribution to advancing electoral justice in Sierra Leone.

Vice Chairperson Victor Idrissa Lansana Esq. stressed that effective election monitoring requires more than legal authority. He called for increased resources, security of tenure for commissioners, professional capacity, and operational independence to enable the Commission to fulfil its constitutional mandate.

ICPNC Executive Secretary Hawa Samai noted that the meeting forms part of the Commission's ongoing responsibility to oversee implementation of the Agreement for National Unity and the recommendations emerging from the Tripartite process.

APC Chief Negotiator Dr. Kelfala Marrah welcomed HRCSL's work but urged the Commission to increase public awareness by making its monitoring reports more visible. He also encouraged stronger engagement with the Sierra Leone Police, political parties, and citizens to reduce tensions and build greater public confidence in future elections.

Adding to the discussion, Boniface S. Kamara Esq. called on all stakeholders to place national interest above political, ethnic, and regional considerations in order to preserve peace, constitutional governance, and democratic stability.

The meeting ended with several concrete commitments, including HRCSL's preparation of a detailed position paper on Recommendation 29, APC's support for resource mobilisation, continued collaboration with the police and the public, and renewed appeals for stronger government and donor investment in democratic institutions.

As Sierra Leone prepares for future electoral processes, the continued implementation of the Tripartite recommendations is widely seen as a crucial step towards promoting transparency, protecting human rights, and strengthening lasting peace across the country.

Source: HRCSL