AYV News, February 19, 2026
The Lawyers’ Society Sierra Leone has raised concerns over the recent appointment of the new Chief Electoral Commissioner, announced by President Julius Maada Bio, citing procedural irregularities and a lack of proper consultation.
Claude Bhamee Davies Esq., the Society’s Public Relations Officer, told AYV News, “Section 32, Sub-Section 2 of the Constitution states that members of the Electoral Commission shall be appointed by the President after consultation. What we have observed appears to be an appointment first, followed by consultation after the fact. In our opinion, proper consultation should have preceded the appointment.”
Bhamee Davies emphasized the importance of thorough political engagement in appointments to key democratic institutions. “We need a deep consultation in our political space, especially for individuals heading the electoral sector. The appointment of the new Chief Electoral Commissioner has generated mixed feelings among Sierra Leoneans,” he said.
The concern stems from multiple references to “consultation” throughout the 1991 Constitution. While the framers envisioned consultation as a safeguard, a check on executive authority, and a mechanism to prevent unilateral decisions, the Constitution does not define the exact parameters of what consultation entails. Legal experts argue that this ambiguity has created a vacuum, leaving room for differing interpretations and potential controversy.
Political observers note that the debate over the appointment highlights broader questions about transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in governance. Mohz Dee, a Social Media Analyst, stated that public discourse surrounding the appointment has been particularly intense online, reflecting widespread interest and concern about the independence and credibility of the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone.
The Lawyers’ Society has called for a clearer framework to ensure future appointments adhere not only to constitutional requirements but also to the principles of fairness and inclusivity. They stress that the legitimacy of electoral institutions—and by extension, the democratic process—depends on both public confidence and adherence to established legal norms.
As the debate unfolds, Sierra Leoneans await further clarification from the Presidency on how consultation was conducted and whether additional measures will be taken to address the concerns raised by legal experts and civil society.
