AYV News, June 14, 2024
The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion has confirmed that the Tripartite Committee, established under the National Unity Agreement, lacks the authority to overturn election results.
The Commission earlier issued a statement to address recent rumors about a potential re-run of the June 23, 2023, general elections, which saw President Bio’s SLPP Government emerge victorious.
It stated that the National Unity Agreement, in alignment with the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, is often misunderstood. The Agreement’s true intent and provisions are to foster national dialogue and engagement, not to manipulate electoral outcomes.
The Commission spoke on key points including:
Role of the Tripartite Committee: The Electoral Reform Committee, known as the Tripartite Committee, was set up under clause 3 of the National Unity Agreement. Its primary role is to review electoral systems and make recommendations to enhance future electoral processes, focusing on the 2023 election and past electoral procedures.
Scope of Authority: The Committee does not have the power to overturn election results or indict individuals. Its objective is to propose comprehensive electoral reforms through an inclusive recommendation process that involves input from political entities and citizens alike.
Addressing Misconceptions: The Tripartite Committee is not an independent entity separate from the National Unity Agreement.
– The Committee was not established to influence election outcomes.
– The Committee cannot invalidate the presidential results of the last elections.
– The National Unity Agreement is not a source of conflict, tension, or confusion.
– The Committee’s operations are not dictated by the international community.
The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion reiterated the importance of the National Unity Agreement in strengthening Sierra Leone’s democratic processes and promoting national cohesion. The Commission encourages citizens to engage in dialogue and contribute to the ongoing electoral reform efforts.
