AYV News, March 25, 2026
The Deputy Speaker of Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa, has stated that calls by the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) Party for the reversal of the appointment of Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) are not only excessive but legally unfeasible.
Speaking on the matter, Hon. Tawa emphasised that the process for appointing and removing an Electoral Commissioner is clearly defined in the country’s legal framework, noting that such decisions cannot be arbitrarily reversed based on political demands.
He explained that once an appointment has been duly made in accordance with constitutional provisions, any attempt to overturn it must follow strict legal procedures, which do not accommodate the kind of request being advanced by the opposition.
The APC has in recent days raised concerns over the appointment of Mr. Alpha, calling for its reversal and questioning the credibility of the process. The party has argued that the move could undermine public confidence in the country’s electoral system.
However, the Deputy Speaker maintained that adherence to the rule of law remains paramount, stressing that constitutional processes must be respected by all political actors.
Observers say the development reflects ongoing political tensions surrounding electoral governance in Sierra Leone, with stakeholders urging continued dialogue to maintain public trust and democratic stability.
The appointment of Mr. Alpha as ECSL Chairman has sparked debate across the political landscape, highlighting the need for sustained engagement among key actors to ensure confidence in future electoral processes.
