AYV News, March 2, 2026
Member of Parliament representing the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), Hon. Mohamed Bangura, has delivered a strong and conciliatory message to the newly appointed Chairman of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), Mr Edmond Sylvester Alpha, urging him to prioritise peace, fairness, and national cohesion in the discharge of his duties.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Hon. Bangura stressed the enormous responsibility that comes with leading the country’s electoral management body.
“To the proposed ECSL Chairman, Mr Edmond Sylvester Alpha, I want you to know that the happiness and peace of this country and the lives of eight million Sierra Leoneans are in your hands. Please go to that office and treat all political parties as one,” he stated.
In a notable appeal to his own party members, Hon. Bangura cautioned against political disengagement, emphasising that constructive dialogue remains the most effective path forward in a democratic society.
“Boycotting is not fashionable in modern-day politics. Dialogue is the way forward. So, I am appealing to my brothers in the APC to come and let’s sit and dialogue with the SLPP,” he said, referring to the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).
His remarks come amid heightened political debate surrounding electoral governance and the recent appointment of the new ECSL Chairman.
Hon. Bangura also used the opportunity to commend President Julius Maada Bio for what he described as strict adherence to the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone in making the appointment.
“I stand here today in this Parliament to speak on behalf of the APC and all the other opposition political parties. I want to commend President Julius Maada Bio for his strict compliance with the 1991 Constitution,” he declared.
Describing the appointment of Mr. Alpha as “very timely,” Hon. Bangura expressed confidence that the new ECSL leadership would contribute to maintaining unity and peace across the country. He further announced his support for the approval of Mr. Alpha’s appointment by Parliament.
Observers note that Hon. Bangura’s remarks reflect a tone of reconciliation and cross-party cooperation at a time when electoral matters remain highly sensitive. His endorsement of the new ECSL Chairman and appeal for dialogue may signal efforts toward easing political tensions and strengthening democratic institutions in Sierra Leone.
